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Although few conclusive studies have been done, early research points to direct effects of environmental chemicals on many aspects of human health. One definite link that has been established is between obesity rates and the prevalence of endocrine disrupting chemicals in the environment. These range from various plastics to many agrochemicals. Obesity is a major factor in chronic diseases from cardiovascular problems to cancer.
Although Western science tends to isolate organs in their scientific research, when one organ or body system is affected, there is a chain reaction in the body as each system supports the others. If environmental chemicals affect the kidneys or lungs, the effect will eventually be noticed in the disruptions of the heart and circulatory system.
One study noted that pesticides damage the vascular system, may increase platelet aggregation, may contribute to plaque formation in the arteries, cause inflammatory responses throughout the cardiovascular system, damage the heart and blood vessel tissues, and increase hypertension by interfering with the functioning of the kidney.
How can you avoid overexposure to heart damaging pesticides? One simple method is to purchase as much produce, dairy, and meat grown by organic methods that never use agrochemicals. The less processed the food the better too; try to buy only fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy, and meats.
Not everyone has ready access to organic foods though, and not all foods need to be purchased organically. Certain fruits and vegetables grown commercially are relatively free of pesticides. These include asparagus, onions, bananas, pineapples and others. Some of those that have the highest levels and should thus be purchased organically include apples, strawberries, cherries, spinach, potatoes, and grapes. Keep in mind that the juices made from these fruits and vegetables should also be organic. Some of the most heart- healthy foods are some of the biggest offenders unfortunately, but it is still advised that eating a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables far outweighs the risks.
Another factor to remember is many of the agricultural chemicals become concentrated in the fat cells of animals. Human and animals both accumulate pesticides in fatty tissues because many of the pesticides are fat soluble. This also makes them hard to remove from fruits and vegetables with just water. If you can’t buy organic produce, invest in a good produce wash designed to remove pesticide residues. Fatty meats and dairy that aren’t organic can have high levels of damaging chemicals, in addition to high levels of cholesterol and saturated fats.
Our bodies are exceedingly complex; science doesn’t yet understand many of the intricate functions that go on every minute of your life. What they are beginning to discover though, is that man-made chemicals, ones that humans have only been exposed to in the last century, may be causing incredible damage to our bodies, especially the cardiovascular system. So, be always careful to watch what you eat!
Related articles
- Are Organic Foods Really Better? (everydayhealth.com)
- Heart Patient Diet Plan-Why Avoiding Animal Products May Benefit Your Heart and Health (moniquerhawkins.com)
- Organic Foods: An Important Part of a Healthy Eating Plan (nutrition.suite101.com)
- Choosing Organic Food Diet for Good Health (justslimming.com)
- Which Foods to Purchase Organically in Grocery Stores (nutrition.suite101.com)
