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From papaya salads and fried rice to curries and stir-fries, many Thai dishes use lots of fruits and vegetables. They complement the dish's other flavors and are often the key ingredient. As a prominent part of many recipes, making sure you use quality fruit and vegetables in your cooking is essential for best results.
And when looking for the best ingredients to use, shop organic. Compared to their non-organic counterparts, organic natural fruits and vegetables offer many beneficial qualities. Here are three major health benefits they provide and why you should use them in your cooking.
Rich Nutrition Content
Organic fruits and vegetables are nutrient dense due to the soil conditions they grow in. For certain fruits and vegetables to be organic, they must meet certain requirements in the farming stages. One key component of organic farming is natural, quality soil. According to the USDA organic farming guidelines, ideal soil conditions and practices include the following:
- Minimal soil erosion
- Crop rotations
- Crop covers
- Plan and animal compost
These soil protocols create quality soil that enhances the crops' growth and nutrient content. Any nutrients in the soil transfer into the fruits and veggies, which then end up in whoever consumes the produce.
High in Antioxidants
The richer nutrient content also means higher antioxidants. Vitamin C and E, selenium, manganese, beta-carotene, and other antioxidants protect your body from harm. They shield your cells against free radicals, which cause ailments such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Using organic fruits and veggies in your food keeps you and others healthy and protected against health threats.
Supporting Stronger Immune Systems
Organic crops grow without the influence of heavy chemicals. Instead, they use more natural sources for their pesticides and fertilizer. Without toxins and modified chemicals, more vitamins from the fruits and vegetables enter your body. The higher nutrient intake then boosts your immune system.
Immune systems rely on circulation to distribute the white blood cells and enhance your body's defenses. High consumption of toxins and chemicals can cause inflammation and block circulation. Therefore, fewer toxins entering your body from organic produce means less demand on your immune system and better circulation.
These three health benefits of organic natural fruits and vegetables are reasons enough to make the switch to organic produce. After all, Thai food involves a lot of fruit and vegetables. So making sure you cook with ones that are rich in nutrients, high in antioxidants, and good for your immune system enhances your dishes in more ways than one.
If you're looking for more ways to enjoy organic fruits and veggies, add them to your favorite beverages. Whip up a glass of Nam Manao with organic fruits. Explore and try your hand at making some non-alcoholic drinks idea.
You can also add some Fresh or dried Thai peppers into the mix—with some fresh garnishes. Organic ingredients work for both food and drinks, providing you with many health benefits either way.
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