As parents, we only want what is best for our young ones. When it comes to baby foods, some people might tell you that you should only use organic foods when feeding your baby, while others might tell you to use non-organic – or a mixture of both. The choice to use organic foods for your baby foods is a personal choice. Here are some of the reasons why you should consider using organic foods:
Lesser Pesticide Consumption
Pound for pound, a baby consumes more pesticides due to body size. Normally, a baby eats more fruits and vegetables than an ordinary adult does. Choosing organic foods decreases your baby’s exposure to pesticides and other contaminants – and these harmful substances are found in processed foods. A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives states that children who ate conventional foods had several different pesticides in their systems. These said chemicals disappeared within a day after switching the kids’ foods to organic ones. Exposure to pesticides can make infants and children more vulnerable to different health problems.
Higher Nutritional Value
Studies also show that organic foods have higher nutritional levels than conventionally-grown foods. While it is true that nutrient content varies from farmer to famer, organic varieties still do provide greater levels of iron, vitamin C, magnesium and phosphorus as compared to non-organic varieties of the same foods. Some organic foods also provide greater levels of certain antioxidants that are important for children’s health.
Lower Levels of Nitrate
What are nitrates? These are natural chemicals found in the soil, water and air. They are also used as a food additive to stop the growth of bacteria and to enhance the colour and flavour of foods. Studies show that a diet high in nitrates increases the risk of colon cancer. Organic foods such as vegetables and fruits have fewer nitrates compare to processed foods.
Non-GMO
GMOs or genetically modified organisms are organisms created in a laboratory with the help of genetic modification and engineering techniques. Scientists have cited many environmental and health risks with foods containing GMOs. Non-GMO basically means non-genetically modified. Organic foods are not GMO foods. In the US and Canada, a food cannot be labelled organic if it contains any genetically modified ingredients.
Will it make a difference to use organic foods for making baby food?
Organic foods are proven to be healthier since they lack chemicals and synthetic pesticides found in conventionally-grown foods. Preparing organic foods for your infants will have great health advantages. Making organic baby foods for your growing child helps to keep your baby’s fragile system free of chemicals and pesticides.
