The Importance of Organic Food:

Naturopathic doctors believe that to educating patients about how to stay healthy is fundamental.  We teach patients about optimal nutrition and how to choose the healthiest foods.  One resource commonly used is the Dirty Dozen and the Clean Fifteen.  These are two lists of the best produce to buy organically, due to high pesticide levels, and which produce can be purchased conventionally grown.  This information is collected by The Environmental Working Group. Click here for your free wallet-sized shopping guide:  http://www.foodnews.org/walletguide.php 

1. Celery 
2. Peaches 
3. Strawberries
4. Apples
5. Blueberries 
6. Nectarines
7. Bell Peppers
8. Spinach
9. Cherries
10. Kale/Collard Greens
11. Potatoes
12. Grapes (imported)

Clean Fifteen (lowest in pesticides, buy conventional)

1. Onion
2. Avocado
3. Sweet Corn
4. Pineapple 
5. Mango
6. Sweet Peas
7. Asparagus
8. Kiwi
9. Cabbage
10. Eggplant
11. Cantelope
12. Watermelon
13. Grapefruit
14. Sweet Potato
15. Honeydew Melon