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13 Reasons to Always Eat Organic

You are what you eat — literally! If you think the benefits of organic food are overrated, consider this. Mounting scientific evidence reports pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, antibiotics, and other drug residues are killing us — even at low levels. The way food is grown, raised, and produced can greatly impact your health. And if you’re still on the fence, consider these 13 reasons to always eat organic.

What is organic?

If it doesn’t say certified organic, it probably isn’t organic. Certified organic is the label given to crops or livestock grown or raised without synthetic fertilizers, chemical pesticides, antibiotics, and GMOs. Organic law also requires that farmers have a plan for building soil fertility.  This includes independent third-party visits to the farm each year to audit farm practices. Here’s why organic foods are best.

1. Organic food is pesticide-free  

One of the top benefits of organic food is no pesticides. But there is even more good news. Studies show that eating organic foods can reduce existing levels of pesticides detected in adults and children. Sadly, non-organic crops contain tons of pesticides. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) recently released its annual list, The Dirty Dozen. The EWG’s report shows which conventional fruits and veggies have the most pesticides.

  1. Strawberries
  2. Spinach
  3. Kale, collards, and mustard greens
  4. Nectarines
  5. Apples
  6. Grapes
  7. Cherries
  8. Peaches
  9. Pears
  10. Bell and hot peppers
  11. Celery
  12. Tomatoes

It’s often believed that washing and peeling fruits and vegetables removes all pesticide residue. But the EWG proves this is not the case. There are still traces of pesticides, no matter how much you scrub. The EWG found that 70 percent of conventional produce sold in America had pesticides. In fact, 20 types of pesticides were found in one sample of three types of leafy greens. And the highest number of pesticides (115) were found in bell peppers.  

2. Organic food won’t attack your immune system

Eat organic, and you’ll never worry about pesticides lowering your immunity. A study on pesticides and their impact on health found that pesticides attack the immune system. Weakened immunity causes health conditions such as heart disease, heart failure, and diabetes — all of which lead to AFib. Organic foods contain no synthetic pesticides.

All pesticides, particularly insecticides, are harmful to health. Even processed foods, like cereals, show trace amounts of pesticides. As well, non-organic animal products like meat, dairy, and eggs also contain pesticides. Pesticides have been classified as likely carcinogens for decades.

3. Organic food is GMO-free 

Organic certification guarantees that the foods you eat are not GMOs. So, why is this important? 

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are plants, animals, bacteria, and even viruses that do not occur naturally in nature. They also cannot be created through traditional crossbreeding methods. 

GMOs are engineered to withstand herbicides and insecticides and often possess other traits, such as resistance to browning. But the truth is, no matter how the industry spins it, there is no evidence that GMOs increase production, are drought-tolerant, or enhance nutrition. And without credible, independent long-term studies, the safety of GMOs is unknown. 

4. Organic food isn’t sprayed with Roundup

GMO crops can survive weed killers like Roundup that contain harmful glyphosate. A study published in the Journal of Public Health and Emergency found a concerning link between coronary artery disease and glyphosate. 

5. Organic crops don’t create superbugs and superweeds

Nature has a way of adapting. So, when crops are chemically sprayed to kill bugs, superbugs are born. Specifically, bugs that can adapt to the toxins used to kill them. Similarly, chemicals used to treat weeds create herbicide-resistant weeds. 

A study published by Environmental Sciences Europe found that between 1996 and 2011, herbicide use in the US went up by 527 million pounds. Pesticide use has likely increased by 404 million pounds. Thanks to chemicals like Monsanto’s Roundup, superbugs and superweeds are taking over farmlands across the world.

6. Organic food is just better for your health and the environment

Since Roundup-ready crops are crossbreeding with weeds to produce glyphosate-resistant weeds, herbicide and pesticide use continue to increase. 

So, what does this mean for the environment and your health? Beyond the disappearance of the monarch butterfly and mounting threats to bees, all aspects of human health are at risk. Choosing organic means protecting the environment, nature, and your health.  

7. Organic food doesn’t contribute to greenhouse gas

Non-organic fruits and veggies get their nutrients from synthetic fertilizers made from fossil fuels. Organic farms rely solely on compost for fertilizer and natural manure. Not only is this better for your health but it’s better for the atmosphere as well. 

Studies show that climate change caused by fossil fuels has increased the risk of cardiovascular disease. Most of the fertilizer used in the US and worldwide is made from synthetic fossil fuels. Each time you bite into non-organic fruit and vegetables, you’re eating fossil fuels. Always eat organic to help protect the planet and your health.

8. Organic food is higher in antioxidants

A study published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that organic crops are 69 percent higher in many key antioxidants than conventionally-grown foods. The more antioxidants you consume, the smaller your risk for cardiovascular disease. The additional antioxidants are the same as eating one to two extra portions of fruit and vegetables a day.

9. Organic meat reduces your exposure to pesticides

You probably don’t think about pesticides when you eat meat. But if you do eat meat, choosing organic is particularly important. Meat production has a significant impact on human health, animal welfare, and the environment. 

Studies show that pesticides from animal feed can accumulate in animal organs. Organic meat doesn’t contain harmful pesticides. For meat to be legally labeled as organic, both feed and pasture must be pesticide-free.

10. Organic meat is antibiotic-free

Did you know that conventional farmers add low doses of antibiotics to non-organic animal feed? This promotes growth and speeds meat production. This overuse of antibiotics is creating antibiotic resistance in humans. By 2050, science predicts antibiotic resistance will kill 10 million people each year. The overuse of antibiotics in farming and agriculture raises the risk of drug-resistant bacteria being transmitted to humans. 

A study in the European Heart Journal found that long-term exposure to antibiotics creates a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes. Organic meat is free of added hormones and antibiotics. 

11. Organic meat contains heart-healthy omega-3

A meta-analysis published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that organic meat and dairy are 50 percent higher in omega-3 fatty acids. That’s because organic feed has higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s contribute to better immune function and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.

12. Organic food is not the same as “natural”

Be wary. Manufacturers’ claims of being “natural” are just a marketing ploy. It’s simply a way to deceive you into believing you’re buying organic when you’re not. Worse, research from Cornucopia Institute reveals that “natural” products are often pricier than the same organic products. Although companies use non-organic ingredients, they’re taking advantage of your misperception.

There are no legal restrictions for foods labeled “natural.” Only very basic standards exist for meat products, according to the USDA’s modest requirements. Most “natural” products often contain artificial ingredients or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).

13. Organic food promotes ecological sustainability

The National Organic Program (NOP) is the federal law that governs organically produced crops and livestock. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) oversees the program and enforces the NOP regulations and standards. Organic food products must be produced in ways that promote ecological sustainability. That means no toxic inputs or genetically engineered ingredients. 

Next steps

The attempt to mass-produce food has led to chemicals that are harmful to the environment, animal welfare, and human health. In fact, they play a big role in the diseases we face today, such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, high blood pressure, and cancer. But the truth is, choosing an organic lifestyle can help you prevent and reverse these potentially fatal conditions and achieve your 100 Year Heart. 

Eat Well, Live Well, Think Well


Medical Review: Dr. Lauren Lattanza NMD 2022

In order to live well, one must eat well.

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About Dr. Lauren Lattanza NMD, FACC

Dr. Lattanza Office Visit with Patient

Dr. Lauren Lattanza Fees

20 Minute Virtual Call: $250

Initial In-Person Appointment:

Follow Up In-Person Appointment:       

As a Naturopathic Physician, I am trained to treat the whole person and get to the root cause of disease.

I went to Arizona State University where I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in psychology with a depth in physiology and minor in Spanish. After my undergraduate degree I was working on prerequisite classes towards medical school, which is when I came to learn that my values identified best with the principles of naturopathic medicine. I knew that I wanted to help patients identify the causes of disease and be able to offer treatments which would improve their health rather than simply treating symptoms.

I dedicated the next 4 years to the Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine in Tempe, Arizona where I attained my Doctorate of Naturopathic Medicine. I served as Class President all 4 years, Board of Trustees – Student Trustee, spoke as the Club President for our branch of Toastmasters, and was voted by my peers and attending physicians to earn the Outstanding Leadership Award for the Class of 2020. Throughout medical school I took it upon myself to work alongside MDs, DOs, chiropractors, and functional medicine practitioners in addition to naturopathic physicians.

As a Spanish speaking student, I was able to volunteer with community clinics around Phoenix and provide free healthcare to low-income families. Due to this combined exposure, I came to find my passion in treating cardiometabolic and digestive disorders that are all too common, yet largely preventable. I took the opportunity to learn the broad spectrum of healthcare so I can ensure that I am able to provide my patients with the best options.

About Dr. Jack Wolfson DO, FACC

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Dr. Jack Wolfson Fees

30 Minute Virtual Call: $1500

Initial In-Person Appointment:

Follow Up In-Person Appointment:       

Dr. Jack Wolfson is a board-certified cardiologist, Amazon best-selling author, husband, father, and the nation’s #1 Natural Heart Doctor.

For more than two decades, more than one million people have enjoyed the warmth, compassion, and transformational power of his natural heart health courses and events.

Dr. Wolfson is the founder of Natural Heart Doctor Scottsdale, his heart health practice in Arizona, and Natural Heart Doctor, an online resource center with natural health information. Doctors from across the globe reach out to Dr. Wolfson for training and education in holistic health practices.

He has been named one of America’s Top Functional Medicine Doctors and is a five-time winner of the Natural Choice Awards as a holistic M.D. Dr. Wolfson’s work has been covered by more than 100 media outlets, including NBC, CNN, and the Washington Post. His book “The Paleo Cardiologist: The Natural Way to Heart Health” was an Amazon #1 best-seller.

Dr. Wolfson and his wife Heather have four children and are committed to making the world a better place to live. They provide for those in need (including animals) and support natural health causes through their philanthropic efforts.

Chiropractic

Our chiropractor is an expert at adjustments and holistic chiropractic care and works closely in conjunction with the other health care experts at Natural Heart Doctor.

Call (480) 535-6844 for details and scheduling.

IV Therapy

We use specially formulated natural vitamins and minerals that are injected into a vein to prevent or treat dehydration. Ideal for people in Arizona.

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Acupuncture

Stimulate your body’s natural healing abilities and promote physical and emotional well-being with acupuncture at Natural Heart Doctor.

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Health Coaching

Our health coaches use evidence based skillful conversation, clinical interventions, and strategies to engage you actively and safely in health behavior changes.

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Cardio Tests

We use the most advanced testing in the world to assess heart health and to identify the root cause of your health issues.

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Office Visits

Schedule an office visit with one of our cardiologists, holistic physicians, chiropractor, or health coaches.

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Frequently Asked Questions

I’d like to receive an online second opinion from Natural Heart Doctor. What do I do next?

You can initiate a second opinion online through our website at any time. To begin, select the team member you’d like to speak with and open an account.

Click here for cardiologist Dr. Jack Wolfson.

Naturopathic Medical Doctor Dr. Lauren Lattanza. Get details.

Naturopathic Medical Doctor Dr. Tonia Rainier. Get details.

Click here for  Natural Heart Doctor Health Coach.

Alternatively, you can email health@naturalheartdoctor.com. A member of our care team will help guide you through the process of starting a second opinion.

What is the cost of a Natural Heart Doctor Online Second Opinion?

The cost for most second opinions varies by team member. This fee includes information collection, a phone or video consultation, a second opinion from a Natural Heart Doctor specialist and guidance throughout the process from your personal Care Team at Natural Heart Doctor.

Cardiologist Dr. Jack Wolfson’s Second Opinion Fee is $1500.

Holistic Physician’s Dr. Lauren Lattanza’s Second Opinion Fee is $250.

Naturopathic Physician Dr. Tonia Rainier’s Second Opinion Fee is $250.

Note: We apply the Online Second Opinion Call fee as a credit to any future consultations with Natural Heart Doctor, should you choose them.

Will my insurance cover the cost of a Natural Heart Doctor Online Second Opinion?

Most likely, no. Most health plans do not cover online second opinions or consultations. You are responsible for the cost of our second opinion. Natural Heart Doctor cannot file a claim with your insurance carrier, nor can we provide a procedure (CPT) code for this service.

What is the timeline to receive an online second opinion?

We do our best to schedule your second opinion as quickly as possible. Typically, it takes 5 to 7 business days after your information has been collected to receive your phone or video online second opinion.

What information do you need in advance of our call?

Our office will send you a short questionnaire to complete and return. We DO NOT need your complete medical records.

How many questions can I ask the expert during our call?

You may ask a maximum of five questions. This is to ensure that the expert has sufficient time to devote to each question. All questions must be finalized before your online meeting.

What should I expect to receive once my second opinion is complete?

You will receive a summary of our discussion along with our second opinion. The second opinion will be in written form. After you have reviewed the second opinion, a Natural Heart Doctor clinician will follow up with you by phone to address general medical questions about the information provided in the second opinion.

What if I have follow-up questions for the expert after I have reviewed my second opinion?

If you have a clarifying question about an expert’s response to one of the questions in your second opinion, and the Natural Heart Doctor clinician is unable to address it, then you may request a follow up session for an additional fee. 

Is my medical and payment information secure?

Natural Heart Doctor is strongly committed to protecting the privacy and security of all our patients. Our website meets all federal requirements for protecting personal health information under the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). All financial transactions are processed by Natural Heart Doctor securely using industry standard payment processing tools.

I would rather visit Natural Heart Doctor for an in-person appointment. What should I do next?

If you would prefer an in-person appointment at Natural Heart Doctor instead of an online second opinion, please call (480) 535-6844 for details and scheduling.

Can I schedule a follow up appointment with the specialist who provided my online second opinion?

Yes, we’re happy to help you on an extended basis. Our clinician can discuss options with you when presenting our second opinion summary.