Organic Food vs. Conventional Food. Who is the Winner in Kailua-Kona?

Most health-conscious consumers attempt to eat a balanced diet. Yet not everyone is fully convinced that there is a difference between organic food and conventional. But anyone who eats organically on a regular basis will tell you organic food in Kailua-Kona not only tastes better, but offers numerous health benefits as well.

Organic Food in Kailua-Kona HI Has More Nutrients

While some studies claim the nutrient content is the same for both conventional and organically grown produce, there has been significant research supporting the claim that nutrient levels in organic produce is considerably higher than in conventional. Furthermore, certain studies have found higher concentrations of polyphenols and antioxidants in organic fruit and vegetables as compared to their conventional counterparts.

Dangerous Pesticides Aren't Used on Organic Food

Yes, they may spoil quicker or be a little less shiny than conventional produce, but that's because organic food isn't coated with dangerous pesticides. Why is this significant? Well, for starters would you really want to eat something that is coated in poison? Dangerous pesticides can build up in our bodies over time and are linked to numerous health conditions. Furthermore, young children suffer developmental delays, behavioral problems and motor dysfunction when exposed to pesticides since their under-developed immune systems aren't prepared to fight the toxin exposure.

Organic Food Doesn't Contain GMOs

GMOs, or genetically modified organisms, are in practically everything these days. An overwhelming amount of the country's soy, corn, sugar and cotton is genetically modified. Not only are GMOs not tested for safety or regulated in any way, but the long-term effects of the constant exposure to these products is unclear. A recent study published in the International Journal of Biological Sciences linked Monsanto's genetically engineered corn to organ damage in lab animals. Organic food won't contain any GMO ingredients and organic meat and dairy products will not come from animals that have been fed GMO feeds, something important to keep in mind when purchasing conventional meat and dairy.

Harmful Medications and Hormones Aren't Used on Organically Raised Animals

Aside from a GMO-based diet, conventionally raised animals are often administered high doses of antibiotics, which have given rise to the evolution of super-strains of bacteria. Furthermore, these animals are often treated with growth hormones and other medications and are raised in inhumane feedlots. Organically raised animals are treated humanely, aren't administered hormones and medications and are more nutritious.

Up front, the additional cost of buying organic may seem high. But when you educate yourself about the dangers of conventionally grown food and the damaging effect they have on your body and the environment- you realize the money (and your health), are more than worth it!