Has produce become too dangerous? The constant news about pesticides on produce has me wanting to reach for cookies instead of carrot sticks. I know that’s silly, fruit and veggies are the smart choice. But I can’t help but feel that all the goodness is canceled out by the toxins. What’s your take?
The benefits of consuming fruit and vegetables (from effortless slimming to improved heart health and reduced cancer risk) far outweigh the risks of ingesting pesticides. But I advise limiting pesticide intake by opting for organic produce whenever possible, especially on items that are high in pesticide residue like apples, celery, cherries, berries, grapes, peaches and spinach. And to help the liver flush out pesticides, add 1/2 cup to 1 cup of liver-boosting dandelion greens (which are in season now) to salads daily. One to try: Alvita Dandelion Root (UNI KEY carries dandelion root tea for $9.50).