Earthly Eating

•The Claim: High hormone levels in dairy cause early-onset of puberty:

The Truth: Many parents voice concern over added hormones used in dairy production, but the truth is this, the synthetic hormones at the cent of the debate is rBST (also knows as rBGH), which is given to cows to increase conventionaldaity production. The FDA maintains that the hormone is inactive in our bodies and that little is absorbed during digestion. These are critics, however, who disagree and are concerned about even slight exposure to synthetic hormones. If you want to reduce your families exposure to hormones, buy organic milk. And watch your whild’s weight and your own. If the parents are truly concerned about the early onset of puberty, they should make great efforts to prevent obesity. That’s because menstruation may start earlier in overweight girls compared with those who are at their ideal body weight.

• The Claim: Antibiotics use in livestock contributes to antibiotic resistance.

The Truth: Overuse, whether through agriculture or medicine, puts us all at risj for antibiotic resistance. However, dairy producers take precautions to make sure antibiotics don’t end up in conventional milk. As far as how meat is handled, it’s tested to avoid high levels of anitbiotics. But some argue that the European Union has been more prudent because, unlike the U.S., it has banned feeding antibiotics to livestock to increase growth. If you are concerned, always buy organic meat, which is free of anitbiotics.

• The Claim: Organic foods are more nutritious.

The Truth: In some cases, organic produce does contain more disease-fighting phytochemicals. However, don’t think that you will never get the cold or flu again by eating strictly organic fruits and vegetables. Nutrient content can vary depending on factors such as soil type, rainfall, temperature, and harvesting techniques. That is whay people shouldn’t lose sight of the fact that a varied diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables-regardless of wheather this fare is orginis or not-is your best bet to ward off illness. Ultimately, when it cones to buying organic, you have to decide what feels right for your family. It may make you feel terrible to some days spend $3 more on a opint of strawberries, but if buying organic is important to you, you will spend that much if not more.

›Tip: Don’t be shy to ask your grocers to offer organic fare. If there is high demand, they may stock it.

›Did you know: Despite some claims in stores, fish can not be certified as organic because no U.S. standards currently exist for fish and seafood.

(Source: Some information pulled from AB)

**Toni Kemp over at ‘Being and Airforce Wife’ is cooking up Stuffed Pork Loin. Get the recipe here and read more of the story behind the recipe, as well.**
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Earthly Eating Recipe:

Ritz Clubs:
Serves 16 (two topped crackers each)

Toss tomatoes, spinach, and radishes together; dress with extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper. Top the turkey with a rounded teaspoon of the tomato relish. Serve.

Happy Eating!