Organic vs. Non-Organic: What’s Worth It & Why It Matters
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I buy everything organic. Here’s why, and what you can do on a budget.
Why Organic Food Is Important (Especially for Women Over 40):
Reduces toxic load on the body (crucial during hormonal shifts)
Supports detox pathways, liver, and adrenal health
Lowers inflammation—key for weight loss, mood, and perimenopause symptoms
Supports gut microbiome, which is tied to digestion, immunity, and even mental health. Why this matters for women over 40 (hormones, detox, inflammation)
You don’t have to go 100% organic to benefit.
What Does "Organic" Really Mean?
To be labeled organic, a food or product must meet specific standards set by a national organic program (like USDA Organic in the U.S. or EU Organic in Europe). These standards focus on:
No synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers
No GMOs (genetically modified organisms)
No antibiotics or growth hormones in animal products
No artificial preservatives or additives
Sustainable, environmentally friendly farming practices
Key Benefits of Organic Food
Lower pesticide residue = lower toxic burden
Supports hormone and gut health
Higher antioxidants & omega-3s (especially in dairy, meat)
Better for environment and soil health
Often tastes better and is fresher
Risks of Non-Organic Food
High pesticide use and residues
GMOs and synthetic additives
Higher inflammation risk
More hormone-disrupting chemicals (especially in dairy and meat)
The Dirty Dozen 2025 – Foods With the Most Pesticides
These are the top foods to buy organic whenever possible:
Strawberries
Spinach
Kale, collards, mustard greens
Grapes
Peaches
Pears
Nectarines
Apples
Bell and hot peppers
Cherries
Blueberries
Green beans
I would add to this list : meat and fish. Here’s why I go organic (and wild!):
No funky chemicals and more nutrients (Higher in omega-3s, zinc, B12, and iron = more energy, better mood, and better skin!)
Tastes amazing – Real food raised right just hits different (like Sunday dinner at grandma’s… if grandma were a health coach).
Kinder to the planet – Organic farms and wild fisheries usually play nicer with Mother Earth.
Whether it’s grass-fed beef or wild salmon, organic animal protein supports your metabolism, helps you build lean muscle, and keeps cravings in check. Plus, your body knows the difference—trust me.
So if you’re trying to lose weight, balance hormones, or just feel more fabulous over 40, going organic is one juicy upgrade worth making.
What to Prioritize if You’re on a Budget
Focus on the Dirty Dozen and anything you eat often (like apples, spinach, etc.)
Choose organic for animal products (meat, dairy, eggs) to avoid hormones/antibiotics
Local and seasonal often = better quality, even if not certified organic..
Healthy doesn’t mean perfect—start where you are 💚 stay consistent.