| Organic farming is one
of the fastest growing areas of the agriculture industry. The term “organic”
applies to foods grown without chemicals or pesticides, thereby limiting one's
exposure to toxic residues. According to a 2001 report by Pesticide Action
Network North America & Commonwealth, the average consumer encounters
roughly 70 chemicals in their diets. A study by the U.S. Centers for Disease
Control established that many of these chemicals are known to disrupt hormone
production, as well as affect the central nervous and immune systems.
Seated; Dr. Eric Clark, D.C., Lindsey & Tamsin Clark
Standing; Elizabeth Polasek, M.A., L.P.C. and Dr. Angela Bumstead, D.C.
For years now, a growing number of consumers are choosing
organic foods which have been shown to be richer in nutritional value. According
to the Journal of Agricultural and Good Chemistry, studies reveal that some
organic foods contain up to 60% more flavonoids than conventionally grown foods.
Flavonoids are a type of antioxidant which contain substances that prevent
oxidation of human cells. Research suggests that oxidation can be one factor in
cancer; however, fruits, vegetables, tea and wine are rich in flavonoids.
Can anything be done with conventional foods to decrease
chemicals in your diet? Washing and rinsing help reduce some pesticide residues;
however, they do not eliminate them. Peeling the skin also helps, but valuable
nutrients are lost in the thrown-away skin. Trinidad Chiropractor Eric Clark
believes eating organic enhances optimal health. “Putting chemicals into your
body is like inviting an invasion in to your most precious space.”
Chiropractor Angela Bumstead agrees, “The growth hormones and antibiotics
given to animals also have an adverse effect. I choose organic meats, milk and
produce whenever I can.” Likewise, Trinidad resident, Elizabeth Polasek, M.A.,
L.P.C., a type 1 diabetic for 27 years, believes her healthy diet has greatly
contributed towards her optimal health and has helped control her diabetes for
the past 20 years. She now teaches workshops related to diabetes and is a mental
health counselor. Elizabeth can be reached at eliz@jondron.com
or (719)680-1441.
Buying local organic food contributes to the demand for more
organic products in your area, thus to overall health. Also, find your organic
eating community and do group buying when one person travels to the market.
| Lately, area stores have responded to the
growing demand for organic foods but prices vary greatly, and it’s always best
to buy in bulk. |
| Trinidad
Safeway has organic produce, chemical-free meats, organic frozen
foods, soy milk and natural grain-fed chicken eggs.
Natural Food Store at 316 Prospect carries organic vegetables, fruits
and bulk products. Call (719) 846-7577.
Walsenburg
Mountain Harmony Natural Foods at 321 W. 7th carries a good selection
of fruits, vegetables, dairy products and dry goods such as pasta and beans at
good prices. Call (719) 738-2436. |
Raton
Super Save Discount Foods at 1265 S. 2nd St., carries a selection of
organic foods. Call (505) 445-2331
other area retailers
Love-R-Health Foods at 220 W. 3rd in La Junta stocks organic canned
and dry goods. Call (719) 384-2332.
Valley Food Co-op at 3211 Main in Alamosa stocks organic produce and
dry goods. Call (719) 589-5727.
Vitamin Cottage at 101 W. 29th in Pueblo has a wide selection and good
prices. Call (719) 542-2411. |
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