The organic food movement seems to be all the rave, and with good reason. The roots of consciously choosing organic food and products, is largely in response to the genetic tampering of our food sources by corporations. Before the 1940s all farming was organic but at the present time, 75-80% of conventional processed food in the United States is genetically modified, which has yielded unpredictable and even dangerous results.
What is a GMO?
A GMO (Genetically Modified Organism) is an organism who’s genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. This is done by forcing the DNA from bacteria, viruses, animals and humans into that of a food crop or animal in order to introduce a new trait. This practice is most commonly used to create Genetically Modified Food .
So, Whats Wrong with That?
GMOs were created to give crops resistance to natural occurring plant disease and insects. Studies have shown this benefit is far outweighed by the disenfranchisement of farmers worldwide, in addition to hazardous risks to human/animal health and the environment. Corporations that experiment with world food supplies are inevitably tampering with the very DNA of our bodies, making us susceptible to disease and possibly creating health threats that never before existed. The American Academy of Environmental Medicine reported that “Several animal studies indicate serious health risk associated with GM foods,” including infertility, immune problems, accelerated aging, faulty insulin regulation, and changes in major organs and the gastrointestinal system.
Quick Tips for Avoiding GMOs.
1. Watch What you Eat
The most common Genetically Modified Foods are Corn, Soy, Wheat, Canola, Tomato, Potato, Rice, Cantaloupe, Sugar beet – (all kinds of sugar), Radicchio, Flax (linseed), Papaya, Squash, Oilseed rape, and Alfalfa. If the above are not labeled “organic” or “non-GMO” they are most likely “Frankenfood”. Dairy is also to be avoided as cows may be injected with GM bovine growth hormone. Look for dairy labels that say “No rBGH, rBST, or artificial hormones”
2. Look for the Seal
Buy food with the labels Non-GMO, Certified Organic, or “Organic”. The Non-GMO project is a non-profit organization that provides consumers with clearly labeled independently verified non-GMO choices-THANK YOU!
3. Buy Local and Organic
A pure food and water source is a basic human right. It is a shame that Americans cannot be informed about the quality of our food in the convenient mega-grocery stores. Its up to you to search a little deeper for natural food markets, farmers markets and even certain ethnic markets that carry affordable organic foods. Contrary to popular belief, organic food is not always insanely expensive. Even so, a few cents more per pound is worth the health of you family and the health of the environment.
4. Avoid At Risk Ingredients
Instead of buying the “natural” marketing buzz words, take a look at actual ingredients. Are they pure and simple or a lot of stuff you can’t pronounce? As a lazy (or hardworking? lol) bachelorette, I love to eat out but I am also aware that in these times, if a grocery store apple is dubious, those Mc. Chicken-ish nuggets probably aren’t fit for human consumption. If you cook at home be wary of traditional vegetable cooking oils and switch to extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil or grapeseed oil.
5. Cultivate Beauty from the Inside Out
Remember your skin is alive and “eats” what you put on it. Your products are processed into the body just as food, so you should scrutinize your beauty products with the same criteria as what you eat. If your skin/hair products have more than a couple ingredients you can’t pronounce, you may want to re-consider. Many “natural” product companies have GMO staples such as corn and cottonseed oil high on their ingredients list. Be aware and seek brands such as Beija-Flor Naturals that use ingredients that are natural organic and chosen for the benefit of your health.
More Sources for GMO Information:
A list of Non-GMO products and shopping guide for protection again GMOs: nongmoshoppingguide.com
The World According to Monsanto
Food Inc
20 Facts about GMOs from the World Trade Organization
