There is a lot of buzz about eating organic foods these days. In order to determine if going organic is the appropriate route for you, there is information you should be armed with. The term "organic" refers to the way farmers grow and process agricultural products such as fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy products and meats. Organic farming practices are designed to encourage soil and water conservation, reduce pollution and provide consumers with products that are free of unnatural substances.

In order for a product to become certified as organic the item cannot use genetic engineering or irradiation, it must not be fertilized with sewage or sludge, and it must be free of conventional pesticides, GMO's (genetically modified organism), hormones, antibiotics and radiation. Animal products using the organic label must be fed a 100% organic diet and the land in which the food is raised must be free of sewage or petroleum.
 
Perhaps you may have noticed the higher price tag associated with organic products. The higher prices are due to more expensive farming practices and lower crop yield. Organic farmers apply natural fertilizers such as manure or compost to feed soil and plants whereas conventional farmers apply chemical fertilizers to promote plant growth. A conventional farmer sprays insecticides on the crops to reduce pests and disease; organic farmers may use beneficial insects and birds, traps or mating disruptions in order to keep pests away from the crop. In order for organic farmers to manage weeds around the crop they have to rotate the crops or perhaps weed them by hand, which is very time consuming. Conventional farmers use chemical herbicides to manage their weeds. When it comes to handling the animal stock used for our food, conventional farmers use antibiotics, medication and hormones to prevent disease and spur growth. Organic farmers use preventative measures to help minimize disease in the animal which includes providing them with a balanced diet and clean housing.
 
Hopefully, as the demand for organic products increase, the price will decrease. If you are interested in going "organic," but you are not ready to tackle the hefty price tag, here are some options:
 
Start small. Start buying organic eggs, milk and chicken because they are antibiotic and hormone free. Lisa Drayer, RD, MA and author of The Beauty Diet also recommends buying organic versions of fruits and vegetables with thinner skins, which makes it easier for pesticides to penetrate. This list includes apples, peaches, bell peppers, celery, nectarines, strawberries, cherries, imported grapes, pears, spinach and potatoes.
 
Another option is to join an organic club. Members of these clubs pool their resources together to purchase organic fruits and vegetables in bulk; cutting down the price significantly. You can search the internet for a club in your local area.

Making the decision to eat a diet high in organic products cuts down on the amount of chemicals and unhealthy agents we put into our bodies. This is one secret weapon we can use to promote a healthy lifestyle, decrease sickness and disease and increase the quality of our lives.