If it’s a vegetable, it’s healthy, right? Well, not always. There are some vegetables that are most certainly more beneficial than others. A lot of this has to do with the ways in which these vegetables are grown and harvested. The following 9 vegetables are not always the greatest option in terms of your waistline, toxic exposure, and overall health.
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1. Potatoes
White potatoes do provide some nutritional benefits; however, many consider them to be more of a starch than a vegetable. In comparison to many green and colour-rich vegetables, potatoes don’t really compare in terms of nutrients.
Potatoes are high on the GI index, meaning they tend to spike your blood sugar. This increases insulin secretion, leading to potential weight gain and other weight-related issues. Also, potatoes are one of the dirtiest vegetables regarding pesticide use. Whenever possible, opt for organic and begin replacing mashed potatoes with creative options like mashed cauliflower.
2. Corn
Not that corn is technically bad for you, but the ways in which it’s currently grown are. Corn and soy are two of the worst foods in terms of GMO’s (genetically modified organisms). These introduce new foreign proteins into our body, which disrupt hormones and create sensitivities. Also, corn is being replaced by grass as a major food source for cattle, leading to further complications when consuming conventionally-raised meat.
3. Conventional Spinach
There’s no doubt that organically grown spinach is incredible for your health. The problem is that conventional spinach often contains over 48 pesticide residues, which leads to serious complications in your body. These toxins may be safe within small amounts; however, many also accumulate in the body. These toxins hinder hormone production and function, expose us to carcinogens, and deliver neurotoxins to our brains. If you’re going to purchase spinach, go for organic.
4. Summer Squash
Squash provides your body with fibre, as well as various vitamins and minerals. Once again, conventional squash has been linked to over 40 toxic pesticide residues, which then affect our internal systems. Not only do these toxins disrupt hormone function, but are toxic to bees as well. Squash also contains compounds that can influence kidney stones. If you are suffering from a kidney condition, speak to your doctor about the potential effects.
5. Cucumber
Cucumbers are refreshing, especially when added to a glass of water. However, cucumbers have been deemed the second dirtiest food in terms of pesticide exposure. Not only is their chemical exposure sky high, but cucumbers are also often covered with a synthetic wax. If you’re trying to decide which vegetables to buy organic, cucumbers are definitely an important choice.
6. Beets
There’s no doubt that beets contain high levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatories, which protect your health, especially regarding cancer prevention. However, beets are high in oxalates. These can create small crystals, which may contribute to kidney stones, gout, or worsened arthritic symptoms. For the most part, beets are healthy; but take caution if you suffer from one of the above conditions.
7. Eggplant
Eggplant does provide health benefits, but don’t ever eat it raw. Eggplant contains solanine, which actually disrupts and hinders your body’s ability to absorb calcium. Consumption of raw eggplant can also lead to a wide range of gastrointestinal and even neurological problems. Once cooked, solanine levels are neutralized.
8. Baby Carrots
These carrots are convenient, but what about the ways in which they influence one’s health? Carrots are good for your health, so this can be confusing. The reason that baby carrots should be avoided is due to the way they are grown and then processed.
Before these baby carrots are packaged, they are exposed to a chlorine bath. This is a standard practice for foods that have been pre-cut, reducing the risk of foodborne illnesses. It’s also been found that baby carrots are lower in nutrients, so always opt for organic, fresh carrots whenever possible.
9. Lima Beans
Once again, do not eat this vegetable raw. These legumes contain high levels of cyanide, which is a natural component regarding their defense system. Yes, vegetables can have defense systems! Think about when you cut an onion and it makes you cry, this is a natural defense system that is meant to protect the onion. Always ensure that your lima beans are thoroughly cooked. Cooking your beans uncovered will also allow some of the potentially poisonous gas to escape.
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