Organic vs. Natural: ​

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     Natural food behaves differently from regular, store-bought food. It tends to spoil faster because it doesn’t have preservatives or artificial chemicals. Natural foods also grow more slowly since they follow nature’s pace, unlike foods grown with special methods that speed up growth. Because of this, natural foods usually don’t get as big or grow as quickly as those grown unnaturally. They also only grow during their specific seasons. For example, blueberries are a summer fruit and shouldn’t be growing or picked in winter.

 

     Natural food is made without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, genetically modified organisms, or artificial additives. It focuses on being in unison with natural cycles without changing the food with human-made modifications. Organic food is a term set by the USDA that means the food is minimally processed and free from artificial ingredients. But it doesn’t always mean the food is free from pesticides or chemicals because some big farms find ways around these rules. (More on that) That’s why store-bought organic produce can sometimes be different from food grown naturally in a garden. An example of this could be a store tomato vs a garden tomato. We don’t say all organic food is bad, but that’s why we prefer to grow and eat our food naturally.

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The importance of the farm-to-table

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     Eating freshly harvested food is important because it ensures you receive the highest nutritional value, the best flavor, and maximum freshness. In the farm-to-table process, produce is harvested and consumed quickly, often within the same week, which helps preserve its vitamins, minerals, and taste. In contrast, produce that travels through the supply chain can take weeks to reach the store and then sit on shelves for additional days or weeks before you buy it. During this time, its nutritional content decreases significantly, and it loses flavor and freshness. By supporting farm-to-table practices and choosing locally harvested produce, you can enjoy food that is at its peak in nutrition and flavor, making it healthier and more satisfying.

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The importance of seasonal eating

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Eating foods that are in season aligns with our body's natural biological needs and supports health throughout the year. For example, consuming local raw honey in the spring helps alleviate allergies by exposing your immune system to small amounts of local pollen, which helps build up tolerance over time. Raw honey also contains antioxidants and enzymes that support overall immune health. Watermelons grow in the summer and provide hydration and essential nutrients like vitamins A and C, which help us combat dehydration and heat-related stress during hot months. Consuming these hydrating fruits when the body most needs water helps maintain optimal hydration. In late fall, when sweet potatoes and potatoes are harvested, our bodies require filling, energy-dense foods to stay warm and sustain energy reserves during colder months. These root vegetables can also be stored for weeks without spoilage, making them a reliable source of sustenance when fresh produce is less available. Additionally, eating foods that are in season matches the natural growing cycles of food, making them more nutritious, tasty, and fresh. 

 

On the other hand, not eating foods that are seasonal can cause a biological butterfly effect in our bodies. For instance, if your diet lacks the foods appropriate for a particular season—such as not eating hydrating fruits in summer or fiber-rich root vegetables in winter—it can lead to nutritional deficiencies and make it harder for your body to adapt to seasonal changes. This can weaken your immune system, causing a cascade of negative effects on overall health. That is why seasonal eating is important.

 

Why food is medicine

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     Food is considered medicine because it provides essential nutrients, antioxidants, and phytochemicals that support overall health and help prevent or manage chronic diseases. A nutrient-rich diet can boost the immune system, improve digestion, regulate blood sugar, and promote mental well-being. Many traditional and holistic health practices emphasize the healing power of food, recognizing that what we eat can influence our body's ability to heal, maintain balance, and prevent illness, making diet a fundamental component of overall health and wellness.

 

     It's important to understand that natural foods' effects take time to manifest. Unlike artificial medicines, which act quickly and are targeted for specific purposes, but may cause unintended side effects. However, the benefits of consistent natural food intake are long-term!

 

     Natural food works slowly, providing a comprehensive approach to wellness without side effects, emphasizing patience and consistency. This means that the benefits of natural foods can take weeks, months, and even years in some cases. Progressively, with regular inclusion of natural foods, you can improve your body's health and resilience. Which method of medicine would you prefer?