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The world is going organic, and you should too – especially when you’re pregnant. Plan a healthier diet for yourself and your baby with organic products. Fruits, veggies, dairy, milk – get on board and be on your way to better health.
There’s no better time to start eating healthy than when you’re pregnant. With the body undergoing so many changes, you need to make sure that you and your baby stay healthy during pregnancy, and even after delivery. Consumption of organic products can help pregnant women in a big way.
What’s The Deal with Organic Products?
You may wonder what the fuss is about organic products. Is it really what it’s cracked up to be? The answer is yes. Not only are they good for you, they’re good for the environment too. Natural fertilisers replace chemical-based ones, giving rise to healthier foods. Also, the soil is less contaminated while biodiversity sees a boost. Organic products don’t contain food additives, and even if they do, they’re in restricted amounts. The best way to ensure that the food is organic is by looking at certification labels.
Of course, organic products have their downsides too, one of which is higher cost. Organic farming is more time-consuming, and the crops are prone to damage since pesticides aren’t used. It is, therefore, a lot more intensive, which drives up the cost. Organic products are also likelier to spoil sooner as they don’t contain or contain a very small amount of preservatives. But, it’s a small price to pay when compared to your health and that of your baby’s.
Benefits of Organic Products
When you eat organic produce, you reduce the risk of chemicals passing to your baby, in utero. Eating produce that’s in season will also help you and your child reap the benefits of vitamins, fibre, folic acid and potassium, found in fruits and veggies. This is because in-season foods are much fresher than off-season ones. Make it a point to ask your local grocer which foods are in season, when you go shopping.
A Word of Caution
Don’t rush to buy something just because it’s labelled organic. A product may be organic, but it may also contain plenty of calories or salt. Fresh foodstuffs should top your shopping list, followed by packaged foods whose ingredients list is carefully scrutinised. Even meat, eggs and dairy products should be carefully chosen. If you can’t find any organic food in your local market, at least try to purchase it from shops you trust. Remember to wash everything well to remove dirt and germs. Peel fruits and veggies if necessary, although you’ll lose out on some vitamins and fibre this way.
Put These on Your Shopping List
While it’s difficult to go fully organic without spending a bundle, do try to buy these foodstuffs. Dark leafy veggies, broccoli, capsicum, tomatoes and peas are a few top picks. Mangoes, apples, oranges and melons should be included in your list of fruits. In grains, choose whole grain or whole wheat items. Yoghurt, milk, and cheese are what you should try to pick from dairy products. As for meat, don’t limit yourself to only white meat. Red meat is also recommended.
Change the way you eat and drink with the help of organic products, during pregnancy. Don’t let the cost dissuade you from revamping your diet. You may spend more, but you’ll enjoy the benefits of food that’s produced through better farming methods.
