Australian Organic Awareness Month is the perfect time to reflect on the personal benefits of choosing certified organic products for you and your family.
Whether you’re just beginning your organic journey, or have been committed to the lifestyle for years, understanding the logic behind your choices can deepen your connection to the products you bring into your home.
In this week’s article, we’re exploring the considerable benefits of certified organic foods and skincare products at a personal level, helping you ‘Find your why’ for choosing organic.
More nutritionally-dense
The combination of fertile, carbon-rich soil and the absence of chemical fertilisers and synthetic pesticides makes certified organic foods the most nutritionally-dense choice for you and your family.
Organic farming practices prioritise soil health, using natural fertilisers and crop rotation to build and maintain nutrient-rich soil. The resulting crops contain more essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Certified organic foods have been shown to contain fewer heavy metals and pesticides compared to non-organic counterparts, as well as increased polyunsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids, micronutrients, protein and other non-essential amino acids.
Research is increasingly supporting the notion the food we eat influences the composition and function of the human gut microbiome, and in turn, overall human health. Choosing food which is higher in antioxidants and essential vitamins and minerals can contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, protect cells from damage, support immune function and contribute to a happier, healthier body.
Less harmful additives
In conventional farming, synthetic chemicals are commonly used to protect crops from pests and diseases. While these chemicals can be effective in increasing yields, they often leave residue on the food we eat.
Many of the pesticides found in non-organic foods are toxic or carcinogenic, and have been linked to various health concerns, particularly in vulnerable populations like children and pregnant women. Children are particularly susceptible to toxic chemicals because they typically breathe more air, drink more liquids, and consume more food per kilogram of body weight than adults.
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are another common farming practice not allowed under certified organic standards. The majority of GM crops are used as animal feed, however a considerable percentage is still consumed directly by humans, mostly through oils. Many studies on mammals have shown innumerable detrimental effects on multiple organs through exposure to GMOs.
By choosing certified organic products, you can dramatically reduce your family’s intake of harmful additives. Organic farming practices prohibit the use of synthetic pesticides, focusing instead on natural methods of pest control. This means when you choose organic, you’re choosing food that is safer for your family’s long-term health.
Certified organic skincare
It’s not only in the fridge or pantry where you can look to incorporate more certified organic products. Our skin is the body’s largest organ and absorbs most of what we apply to it, which is why certified organic skincare products have become increasingly popular among health-conscious consumers.
Certified organic skincare products adhere to strict standards that ensure the purity and safety of the ingredients used. These standards prohibit the use of potentially harmful substances like parabens, phthalates, and synthetic dyes, instead promoting the use of natural ingredients like aloe vera, coconut oil, and essential oils to hydrate, soothe, and protect the skin.
In Australia, ACO Certification adheres to the COSMOS standard, which covers all aspects of skincare products including the origin and processing of ingredients, the total organic composition of a product, packaging and environmental management.
Harsh chemicals in conventional skincare can actually weaken your skin with prolonged use, which can lead to premature ageing and increased risk of sunspots. Certified organic skincare products help you nourish your skin more gently for the long-term.
Finding your why
Everyone has their own unique reason for choosing to use certified organic products. Whether it’s ensuring your family has access to the highest quality, nutrient-dense foods, or reducing exposure to harmful chemicals, the benefits of incorporating organics into your daily routine are clear.
Beyond just a lifestyle choice, your organic journey is also a reflection of your values and your ‘why’. Whatever your reason, choosing certified organic products is a powerful way to invest in your health, your family, and the future of our planet. This Australian Organic Awareness Month, we invite you to discover the personal benefits of going organic and ‘Find your why’.
