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Easy ways to go organic
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Eating organically grown and produced foods is a great way to not only improve your health and eating habits, but to help the planet as well. Organic farming practices are extremely eco and animal friendly. Instead of poisoning the land with harsh chemical fertilizers, organic farmers rely on natural animal byproducts to safely and effectively fertilize and preserve their land. Food is never contaminated with chemical preservatives or artificial ingredients. In addition, organic farmers utilize much more humane animal care practices than do traditional farming techniques.
Despite the benefits of going organic, many people are hesitant to convert. One of the most obvious reasons why is the cost. Yes, organic foods do cost more than traditionally produced foods. Fortunately, there are ways to still eat organic without breaking your budget. Trust me, I am a poor college student and I still find ways to make it work. For example, instead of switching to all organic, why not start off with your dairy and meat products. Dairy and meat often contains more preservatives than other types of food; organic dairy and meat products eliminate this issue, and are also free of antibiotics and growth hormones. www.organicvalley.coop offers printable coupons, including $1 off milk offers.
Other great ways to become more food conscious includes eating seasonal fruits and vegetables. This time of year, why not opt for Ohio apples and ciders instead of Florida orange juice and South American bananas. The benefits of eating local are endless. Not only are you supporting local business, but local foods use less resources to transport and are much fresher. Even if they are not certified organic, local foods most often contain less chemicals because they do not have to travel as far to reach their destinations. Often overlooked, the West Side Market, www.westsidemarket.com, offers fresh and local produce and meats with a distinct Cleveland flair. Located in Ohio City at the corner of West 25th and Lorain, the West Side Market is open Mondays and Wednesdays from 7am to 4pm, and Fridays and Saturdays from 7am to 6pm. 
The bottom line is that although going organic can be more expensive, its benefits are too many to list. Not only will you be supporting local business and eating healthier, more nutritious foods, but you will be helping the planet at the same time. Feeling good and doing your part for a better world is well worth a little added cost.
