ORGANIC FARMING AND ITS IMPACTS ON HUMAN HEALTH

 Introduction

The increasing health problems and environmental challenges in today’s world has made many of us become more conscious about what we eat and how it directly or indirectly affects our health. With the high use of pesticides, chemicals and fertilizers by conventional farmers just to make more profits on their agricultural products leading to health problems for many people has lead to Organic farming gaining more attention as a healthier and sustainable alternative.

What is Organic Farming?

According to Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Organic Farming is a holistic production management system that avoids the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, and genetically modified organisms, minimizes pollution of air, soil, and water, and optimizes the health and productivity of interdependent communities of plants, animals, and people. This means that farm produce, including animal products we consume from organic farms are produced without harmful chemicals that negatively affect the human body.

How Does Organic Farming Benefits Our Health?

I will be highlighting three major benefits of Organic Farming to our health: 

1. Less or No Harmful chemicals in farm produce

One major reason we have to choose organic farming is to have access to organic foods free from harmful pesticides and synthetic additives. Conventional farming uses chemicals that leave residue on food we eat. Over time, the consumption of these substances has been proven to lead to health problems, including hormonal imbalances in women, sometimes leading to early menopause and irregular periods and also certain diseases such as Cancer, which is caused by Glyphosate, an herbicide commonly used in farming, has been classified as “probably carcinogenic” by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). By eating organic grown foods, we reduce our exposure to these harmful chemicals and give our bodies more natural nutrients.

2. High level of nutritional value

Studies have shown that organically grown farm produces contains higher level of nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and antioxidants compared to conventionally grown produce. The results of organic farming focusing healthy soil and natural growth methods is not just about producing farm produces without chemicals but also pack farm produce with the essential nutrients needed for the body.

3. Lower the Risk of Antibiotic Resistance

If we consume meat or dairy products from animals raised with antibiotics, we may unknowingly contribute to antibiotic resistance. Conventional livestock farming often uses antibiotics to promote growth and prevent disease in crowded conditions. However, when we eat these products, we expose ourselves to antibiotic-resistant bacteria, making it harder for our bodies to fight infections. Organic farming, on the other hand, prohibits the routine use of antibiotics, reducing this health risk.

Why Does Organic Farming Matters for the World’s Future? 

Beyond the health advantages, Organic farming helps to protect our environment from pollution. The avoidance of harmful chemicals by Organic Farming helps to prevent soil, water and air pollution which promotes biodiversity. When we choose organic farming, we are not just taking care of ourselves but also taking care of our environment and contributing to a healthier environment for future generations.

Making a switch to Organic farm produce?

While organic farm produce can be more expensive, we can still incorporate it into our diet in small but meaningful ways. We can decide to start our home gardening by growing our own vegetables, pepper etc, which are easier to grow at home with little or no experience needed. We can also make it a point of duty to shop from local farmers’ market who prioritizes organic farm produce. Every step we take toward eating organic is an investment in our health and well being.

Conclusion

Organic Farming is not just about growing our own food but creating a healthier and more sustainable future for all of us. By choosing Organic farming, we nourish our bodies with more nutritious food while also protecting the environment. I’m urging us all to start making choices that support our health and environment. Remember, what we eat today shapes our well being tomorrow.