Nowadays, an increasing number of mothers are choosing organic food to care for the health of their young children, even during pregnancy. Due to the fragile immune and digestive systems of infants and toddlers, many mothers are concerned about the potential harm that chemical-laden foods and pesticide residues might pose to their children.
Additionally, products containing growth-stimulating hormones have raised worries about early puberty in children. This article aims to delve deeper into the advantages that organic food brings to the well-being of young children.
What is Organic Food?
Organic food is produced using organic farming methods, which entail natural and chemical-free cultivation. The key elements of organic farming include:
- No use of chemical fertilizers on plants.
- No use of antibiotics or hormones on animals.
- No use of artificial chemicals, hormones, antibiotics, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
- Improvement of soil and water quality, reducing pollution to the environment.
Moreover, organic crops must not employ artificial additives, including artificial sweeteners, preservatives, colorants, flavorings, and monosodium glutamate (MSG), to qualify for organic food certification.
From these factors, it becomes evident that organic farming ensures natural and essential nutrition for human health while positively impacting the environment. Although organic food might be costlier than conventional food, health-conscious homemakers view this as an investment in their family's future well-being.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), during early childhood, parents should opt for pure and healthy food for their children. Organic food is rich in essential vitamins (A, B, C, D, E, K) and minerals (calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc) and has an appropriate ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, promoting balanced and comprehensive child development.
Organic products contain polyunsaturated fatty acids, omega-3, and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) – essential components that contribute to cancer prevention. Many beneficial amino acids for the body are found in high amounts in organic powdered milk.
Providing children with organic powdered milk and organic baby food helps enhance immunity and strengthen the immune system.
Protecting Children's Health from Hazardous Chemicals
Organic food, cultivated in a completely natural manner without any chemical interference, allows mothers to eliminate the risk of exposing their unborn babies to harmful chemicals like pesticides, growth stimulants, artificial flavorings, colorants, preservatives, and more.
Studies conducted by researchers from Columbia University, the University of California, Berkeley, and Mount Sinai Hospital revealed that fetuses developing in the wombs of mothers exposed to pesticides are susceptible to damage.
The American Academy of Pediatrics indicated that pesticides are among the primary causes of various conditions such as cancer, autism, depression, memory impairment, behavioral disorders, and reduced IQ in children.
Another study from the University of Washington confirmed that using organic food can reduce potential risks from chemicals by up to 94%. Additionally, choosing organic products significantly decreases the risk of allergies in young children, especially during their first two years of life.
Shielding Children from the Impact of GMOs
To increase crop yields, many producers nowadays genetically modify plants and animals to enhance disease resistance, fight viruses, protect crops, and more.
Common genetically modified organisms (GMOs) include soybeans, corn, and beef. Although this method has substantially increased food production, the safety of GMO products remains a controversial topic.
Though there is still limited credible evidence on the harmful effects of GMO food on health, many meticulous homemakers are cautious about these products, especially mothers with young children, as they worry about potential genetic alterations in their offspring.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that antimicrobial-resistant microorganisms (immune to antibiotics) affect 2 million people annually, resulting in 23,000 deaths due to infection-related diseases. These antibiotic-resistant genes are found in GMO food products.
When selecting organic food, one can rest assured that it does not contain GMOs, as organic food production regulations strictly prohibit their use. Manufacturers cannot label their products "organic" without certification, ensuring transparency with consumers.
Each organic certification comes with its own logo and is awarded to producers who comply with the standards. This allows consumers to identify organic products and which organization certifies them.
Some of the most common organic certifications currently include EU (Europe), USDA (United States), JAS (Japan), NASAA & AO (Australia), COR (Canada), AB (France), and others. These certifications are issued by organizations such as QScert, BioAgriCert, EcoCert, Onecert International, and many more. For greater peace of mind, don't hesitate to request proof of certification from manufacturers if you have any doubts. Transparent and high-quality agricultural producers will always provide the necessary documentation.
Enhanced Nutritional Benefits for Children
A meta-analysis of over 343 studies comparing organic and conventional products revealed that organic foods, such as potatoes, carrots, broccoli, and tomatoes, contain 1 to 2 times more antioxidants than conventional ones.
On average, organic food provides significantly higher amounts of nutrition compared to conventional food, specifically, more than 21.1% iron, more than 27% vitamin C, more than 29.3% magnesium, and more than 13.6% phosphorus.
Research by QLIF (Quality Low Input Food) also demonstrated that organic milk contains more polyunsaturated fatty acids like omega-3, omega-6, and conjugated linoleic acid compared to conventionally produced milk.
These substances have beneficial effects in boosting the immune system and preventing cancer. Additionally, organic meat from animals raised using organic methods has been proven to be less fatty and more flavorful.
The first two years of life are critical for preventing nutrition-related chronic diseases such as obesity, metabolic disorders, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, osteoporosis, and more.
Nourishing and caring for children from prenatal to two years of age greatly impact their height, weight, health, and brain development. Supporting children's nutrition during this stage yields optimal results compared to any other period in their lives.
Incorporating organic food into a child's daily diet can lead to better nutrient absorption and comprehensive physical and intellectual development.
A Few Important Notes When Purchasing Organic Food
An organic food producer cannot self-certify their products as "organic." Instead, they must undergo verification and certification by reputable organizations to ensure transparency for consumers.
Each type of organic certification comes with its unique logo, and only certified producers can use the corresponding logo on their products. As a result, consumers can identify organic products and which organization certifies them.
Some of the most common organic certifications currently include EU (Europe), USDA (United States), JAS (Japan), NASAA & AO (Australia), COR (Canada), AB (France), and others. These certifications are issued by organizations such as QScert, BioAgriCert, EcoCert, Onecert International, and many more.
Additionally, there are numerous internationally recognized organizations that provide organic certifications. Don't hesitate to request certification documents from manufacturers if you have any concerns. Reputable agricultural producers will always provide all the necessary information for verification.
Conclusion
Choosing organic food for children brings numerous health benefits, shielding them from harmful chemicals and genetic alterations while providing them with enhanced nutritional value. By opting for organic products, parents can be confident in their decision to prioritize their child's health and well-being.
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