The U.S. EWG guide is based on laboratory tests conducted by the Department of Agriculture’s Pesticide Data Program. The organization annually publishes the EWG Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce report. Classifies fruits and vegetables according to the level of pesticide contamination and their toxicity. Analyzing the composition of products in this respect is intended to help consumers make the healthiest food choices.
Why do food producers use pesticides? They are plant protection products that are intended, among other things, to repel pests, prevent fungal diseases and protect against weeds. Unfortunately, if we do not remove them from the skin of fruits and vegetables, they can be extremely harmful to health. They have a negative impact on the nervous system, brain function, dysregulation of the hormonal system, and even have carcinogenic effects. To ensure your safety, remember to wash the fruit thoroughly under running water and then peel it. Another tip is to choose organic food, which helps reduce exposure to pesticides.
The list of the cleanest fruits and vegetables includes (in order from 1st place): pineapple, sweet corn (fresh and frozen), avocado, papaya, onion, sweet peas (frozen), asparagus, cabbage, watermelon, cauliflower, bananas, mango, carrots, mushrooms and kiwi. Of course, it is worth remembering that the report was conducted in the United States, which does not translate directly into the Polish fruit and vegetable market.
The fruit with the lowest pesticide content according to EWG is pineapple. The thick and hard peel effectively protects the fruit pulp against plant protection products. Pineapple is not only very tasty, but also healthy. One of the most valuable substances contained in it ist an enzyme called bromelain, which has the effect of supporting the digestion of proteins, which prevents bloating and gas. This substance also shows strong anti-inflammatory properties, which, among other things, helps prevent osteoporosis. It is also present in this fruit vitamin C, a natural antioxidant that supports immunity and collagen synthesis. It is also in it potassiumwhich helps maintain proper blood pressure and water and electrolyte balance magnesium supports the functioning of the heart, brain and muscles. In addition beta-carotene has a beneficial effect on eye health, skin appearance and body immunity.
Eating pineapples regularly also helps take care of your cardiovascular system. It regulates blood pressure, reduces the risk of heart attack, and also helps reduce the level of “bad” cholesterol in the blood. Moreover, eating pineapple is recommended for people who want to maintain a slim figure. This fruit is low-calorie, approx. 50 kcal per 100 g, and also contains a lot of fiber, which supports digestion and improves metabolism.
Pineapple can be eaten in many ways. Just peel it and treat it as healthy a snack, for example for a second breakfast. It tastes great too in fruit salads. Combine pineapple pieces with, for example, sliced banana, kiwi and strawberries. You can also add this fruit for sweet breakfasts, oatmeal, yogurt with fruit and granola, pancakes and pancakes.
If you like to prepare homemade smoothies or cocktailsyou can also add pineapple to them. It can be an interesting drink that is a bomb of vitamins and minerals green smoothie with spinach, pineapple, apple, lime, mint and coconut water. It will perfectly hydrate and refresh you.
This fruit can also be used in savory recipes. For example in salads. For example, he often appears at family events. You can also prepare a healthy one Hawaiian salad for lunch or dinner. Just put romaine lettuce, add fried chicken, sliced pineapple, green cucumber, yogurt sauce, crispy croutons and almond flakes.
Sources: Terazgotuje.pl, ewg.org, dietetyki.org.pl
