Is organic food really better for your baby?
There is a sudden demand for organic foods, organic products but do we even understand how organic is better than non-organic? Let’s just not follow trends without understanding the relevance.
So What Are Organic Foods?
Organic foods are those crops which are essentially grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. Though, certain minimal amount of insecticides, pesticides, and fertilizers might be required while growing organic food, as well.
However, these are lesser as compared to conventionally grown crops. Conventional farmers use more pesticides for protecting their produce from insects and diseases. These pesticides leave behind layers of residues which might not be good for health. It is worth mentioning here that even in food that is grown, non-organically the levels of pesticides, insecticides etc. do not exceed the recommended Government safety thresholds.
Is it a good idea to choose Organic food for babies?
- Babies are delicate and more sensitive to all kinds of pollutants. Therefore, feeding the kind of food that has been exposed to all sorts of Chemicals might expose your baby to the harmful effects of the residues left behind by these insecticides and fertilizers.
- Nutrition wise, there is no evidence of the Organic foods being superior. The nutrition content of organic foods is comparable to intensively farmed foods.
- Taste wise, organically grown crops, veggies and fruits taste much better due to intact flavours.
- It is environment-friendly.
- Organic milk has comparatively higher content of Omega-3 fatty acids when compared to non-organic milk. These fatty acids are great for maintaining a favourable lipid profile and protecting against a host of Cardiac ailments. These Omega 3 fatty acids also aid in brain development.
- You may also want to introduce your baby to organic meat as the meat which has been obtained from animals who have received lots of artificial hormones, medications, and prolonged antibiotics could be potentially harmful to health.
Points To Ponder
- You should always wash the fruits and vegetables you buy thoroughly with water regardless of the fact that they are organic or non-organic. This helps to remove whatever little residue these foods might have. You do not want to expose your baby to unnecessary chemicals.
- Nutritionally, organic fruits and veggies might not be superior.
- If you wash non-organic fruits and veggies thoroughly or dip them in Potassium Permanganate or Hydrogen Peroxide followed by washing, they too are healthy enough to consume. The above two substances help to remove almost all of the pesticides, medicines etc. from the produce.
Finally;
Instead of being obsessed over the debate of Organic versus Non-organic, focus on giving your baby a balanced diet. Include foods from different nutrient groups, including carbohydrates, healthy fats, proteins, vitamins and minerals in their daily diet. Add fluids and water in ample quantities, as well. This helps prepare them for a lifetime of healthy eating. You need to bear in mind that organic food does not mean that it is more nutrient-dense though, there are clearly some benefits to choosing Organic food over its non-organic counterpart which has been listed above.
Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post.
That is really important topic for discussion as nowdays we keep juggling between healthy and unhealthy
You’ve answered a pressing question for parents. And I agree with you, the battle isn’t organic food v/s others. The answer is a balanced diet now and always
I agree.. We need to have a more pragmatic approach.. Balanced diet is of the utmost importance
You have spoken my mind here, I always opined about the obsession Indians have with the word organic. Until now we have been eating what was available easily. What matters the most is correct eating.
I believe that the ancient diet was a balanced diet. Which was organic and full of nutrition
Loved reading this! Finally, someone said that organic or not, balance is the key! Balance diet is indeed what’s needed and regular ingredients can be washed properly to make them safe!
I have been through this dilemma too. You have correctly summed up that a balanced diet is what our kids require.
So true! We need to take out good from each organic and inorganic wisely. Thank you for sharing this with us.
Even I too think the idea of organic food has been commercialized by brands and now we can’t really think beyond this term. You have certainly made several informative points here. Great job.
I really don’t have much idea about this topic but I m happy to read such Important points …great blogpost
Now many people are very obsessed with organic foods. But yes, as you mentioned diet should also be balanced. And special care should be taken while planning anything for a baby.
Nicely elongated. Organic food is so booming these days. I also prefer food that is not gone through chemicals, pesticides, and fertilizers. ?
Thank you so much, Aditi!
That’s such an amazing guidance for parents who are confused over which is better- organic or otherwise. You’ve cleared quite a few myths about the term organic as well. Lovely!
I’ve been wondering how beneficial organic products really are given all the recent hype towards them! Thanks for sharing this 🙂
They are very beneficial, Purva!
I was always confused about organic, healthy, unhealthy, etc. You spoke out the words so beautifully. Organic or not is no more important, it is necessary to give in balanced form and it is important what you are eating. Great post. Loved it.
Thank you very much, Snigdha!
I agree with you, more than putting enforce on organic better to take care of a well-balanced diet for the family.
Yes, you are absolutely right, Gurjeet!
That is a really important topic for discussion. I am sure all the parents are looking for a solution. Thanks for sharing ☺️
Thank you very much, Namrata!
This is so important and seriously, I have never thought of this topic. It helps us a lot to decide what and when. Organic food is a trend nowadays really.
I totally agree with you. Kids need balanced diet. We should first focus on giving them a proper diet.