Organic Junkfood

Organic products have become more and more prevalent in today’s market. More and more people are growing concerned over the environment and their health. Major supermarkets are now carrying their own brand of organics, ranging from packaged chips, milk, oatmeal and cereal, even organic candy. The term “organic” has been applied and is most commonly associated with health. However, are the organic proccessed foods we purchase really any better for us than conventional items?

Let’s first consider what “organic” means. Organic means it has been treated without pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, and have not been genetically modified. They contain natural, organic ingredients that have been certified “organic” by the USDA (or QAI). By putting organic foods in our bodies, instead of conventional foods, we are limiting our exposure to toxic chemicals which could very well be carcinogenic (in fact, many studies are revealing that conventionally grown and packaged products DO contain ingredients which are carcinogenic).

More and more companies are now coming out with “Organic Candy”. Eager to maintain a sense of health, customers are driven to obtain these so called “healthy” products for their sweet tooth. However, what they don’t realize is the fact that they are still exposing themselves to a slew of other problems.

Candy and junk food, whether it is organic or not, has NO nutrients, but do contain quite a bit of calories. Candy usually has no fiber, vitamins or nutrients, and provides a person with fat and calories instead. Also, the consumer is taking in massive amounts of sugar, which elevates insulin levels which, in the long run (if sugar is consumed excessively), will lead to diabetes, insulin resistance, weight issues, emotional problems, and much more. Although the sugar in these products are organic, sugar is sugar, and will do the same things to your body.

If I had to choose between organic sugar and regular sugar, I would absolutely choose the organic version. However, since I can make my own choices, I choose not to ingest organic white sugar. Instead I opt for lower glycemic sweeteners that will have a gradual effect on my glucose levels. Sweeteners like agave, xylitol, and stevia are excellent alternatives to have in your diet if you are craving a healthy sweet treat. 

If you are wanting that sweet treat, try making it yourself with the above sweeteners. You can also try honey, if you like. Rather than purchasing factory made, processed foods (whether they’re organic or not), try a recipe out using agave, honey, or stevia. With honey and agave, you will want to use 1/3 cup for every cup of sugar listed in the recipe. This is because these two sweeteners are much sweeter than sugar, and can be used less. This will also give you fewer calories, and will have a gradual effect on insulin levels.

So if you are tempted in purchasing an “organic junk food” item, stop and think. Remember that sugar is sugar is sugar, and even if it is organic, it doesn’t mean it is always healthy. If you must buy a processed organic product, then buy it! It will be much better for you than something else that isn’t organic. However, in your diet, you will want to strive for more whole foods (preferably organic), because these foods will give you the nutrients and vitamins you need in order to operate at your best ability.