Vegetables

Vegetables work in much the same way as fruits. Tomatoes, while technically a fruit, are usually found in the vegetable isles and are important to buy organic because of their thin outer covering. The same applies for bell peppers, mushrooms, corn, green beans, cucumbers, and leafy greens. Vegetables like asparagus, avocado, broccoli and onions are fine to buy au-natural.

According to the theory above, asparagus and broccoli should not be on this list, as they do not have thick skin. There is a reason for this we will get to in just a second. Grains are also slightly different. While most grains do not have thick outer shells, they are not as important to buy organic because there are fewer pesticides used on that type of crop due to their delicate growing conditions, which is the same reason for the asparagus and broccoli. Not many pests bother these crops, therefore no pesticide needed.

Meat/Dairy

In the meat and dairy section, beware the term ‘Natural’ as it means absolutely nothing. ‘Natural’ is not an officially monitored term by the FDA and anyone is allowed to put it on their packaging without any repercussions. The only label to look for is ‘Certified Organic’ which has been approved by the FDA to mean the packaged food is, well, certified as organic.

Just remember that produce with thick outer shells or rinds are less important to buy as organic because the outer layer will be removed before eating. As with meat, just remember that there is no guideline to go with the ‘Natural’ designation – so look for the ‘Certified Organic’ label to be sure you are getting the best protein.

Organic foods have become one of the most popular topics around the globe. People are becoming more concerned each day with the amount of pesticides that are being used to grow certain items of produce. Genetically modified foods are also a growing concern. Many of these are viable issues, but some make less sense than others.

There are some simple tips to figuring out what foods to buy organic, and which ones are not cost savvy. Here are a few guidelines to follow when making your final decision at the grocery store.

Fruit

The first thing you see when you walk into a grocery store is usually a plethora of fruits and vegetables all grouped into one giant space. This is the fist situation to avoid. Look for organic produce that is separated from the traditional. The reason this is so important is because the sprayers that keep the fruits and veggies cool and moist can actually wash pesticides off of the traditional produce onto the outside of the organic produce. If there is not a separation, ask your store manager if they would mind separating it in the future.

Oranges, bananas, cantaloupe and watermelon all have one thing in common – thick outer layers. Ok, so maybe they have more than that in common, but the thick rind is what I was talking about. With thin outer layers, the actual edible fruit is exposed to pesticides, so it is more important to buy fruits like grapes, apples, berries and kiwi organic. Take a look at the outer layers and make a decision, just remember, the thicker the skin, the less important it is to buy organic.

The body uses different nutrients to provide lasting energy at each stage of activity. Those who are generally more active must load up on the carbohydrates since they are the first nutrients to be turned into energy. Proteins are used for muscle recovery by allowing the body to produce some amino acids, which are not normally found in the body, but still required for active people. There are many different ways to eat in order to get the energy you need; it is as simple as figuring out what type of active life you are leading and how each nutrient works with or against you.

Substances That Support Metabolism

One of the main reasons the substances above create energy is that they supply stored energy, which is broken down by metabolism. When foods are broken down by metabolism, they release their stored energy and transfer that energy to our bodies. Of course, many people start to see a decline in their metabolism as they age, but there are a few substances to focus on to help support and maintain a healthy metabolism for a longer period of time.

Trace elements, salts and ions such as copper and iron are some of the minerals that help make up dietary minerals, which are necessary to assisting your metabolism.
Vitamins are a key to a healthy metabolism. As organic compounds, they usually act as coenzymes or cofactors to help break down various proteins in the body.

Water is the universal solvent, which means it helps break down almost every thing our body throws at it. Since our bodies are made up of over 70% water, it only makes sense that this is an essential part to maintaining a healthy metabolism.

By understanding what makes up stored energy and what breaks it down into usable piece, you can better understand how to eat correctly for the maximum energy. If you have any questions, there are numerous resources, from your family physician to the trainer at your local gym. Get with a licensed professional to help determine the plan that is best for you.

The body uses different nutrients to provide lasting energy at each stage of activity. Those who are generally more active must load up on the carbohydrates since they are the first nutrients to be turned into energy. Proteins are used for muscle recovery by allowing the body to produce some amino acids, which are not normally found in the body, but still required for active people. There are many different ways to eat in order to get the energy you need; it is as simple as figuring out what type of active life you are leading and how each nutrient works with or against you.

Substances That Provide Energy

Carbohydrates are compounds made up of sugars and are classified by the number of sugar units contained: monosaccharides, such as glucose and fructose contain a single simple sugar. Disaccharides, such as sucrose and lactose, contain more complex sugar structures. Oligosaccharides and polysaccharides, such as starch, glycogen, and cellulose are the most complex and as such, are the most difficult to break down and transform into energy.

Proteins consist of amino acids joined by peptide bonds, creating an organic nutrient. The body cannot manufacture some of the essential amino acids found in proteins, so the body relies on the diet providing these nutrients. Proteins are broken down through digestion into free amino acids, which the body can then use for energy.

Fats consist of a glycerin molecule with three fatty acids attached. Fatty acids are un-branched hydrocarbon chains, which basically mean the bonds that connect them make up saturated fatty acids (single bonds) or unsaturated fatty acids (double bonds). Fats are important to help keep cell membranes functioning properly, to insulate body organs against shock, to keep body temperature stable. They also help in maintaining healthy skin, nails and hair. Just like amino acids, the body does not manufacture certain fatty acids, termed essential fatty acids, which must be further supplied by the diet. Fats are basically the reserve store of energy for the body.