Easy Ways to Make the Switch to Organic Foods

If you are interested in improving the way that you eat and lowering your toxic load, you may also be interested in making the switch to organic foods.  Although many individuals are able to do so with ease, it can take others a little bit more time.  If you are looking for easy ways and tips to help make the switch to organic foods, please continue reading on.

Image via WikipediaThe first step in making the switch to organic foods involves getting used to the cost.  Many individuals who decide to go organic without first researching are put off by the costs, as organic foods often do cost more.  This is something that you should prepare for. Although organic foods are more than worth their costs, you should still prepare for the change. (However, it can certainly be manageable - see our earlier post on the cost of organic local food vs. commercially grown groceries.)

In addition to preparing for the cost increase, you should also examine ways that you can save money when eating organically.  For example, organic food coupons can be found on online coupon websites, as well as the websites of organic food manufacturers.  Simply Organic and Earth’s Best Organic are known for regularly offering free printable coupons on their websites.  Also, familiarize yourself with stores in the area that are known for their affordable prices or great sales on organic food - often you may find a local farmer's market or CSA offers the best prices, and also the best/freshest quality.

It is also a good idea to start preparing for the disappearance of many of the artificial additives that are found in many foods.  Although many will notice a taste difference, that taste difference is usually an improvement with organic foods.  Even still, it takes some people time to get use to.  For example, soda, like Pepsi, is not considered organic.  If you are interested in having a truly organic diet, you will need to eliminate it from your diet.  This can be easier said than done for many, as they grow dependant on the caffeine and other artificial additives.  That is why a quick and complete change to strictly organic food (if you have been eating commercially produced foods exclusively) is sometimes advised against. 

Image by aMichiganMom via FlickrAs stated above, a quick switch to organic foods doesn’t always work well for everyone.  What you will want to do is consider making a slow transition, especially if you are dependant on a particular food or drink.  Sometimes slow is the best way to go.  Consider incorporating a few organic snacks, like organic crackers or organic fruit bars, into your diet on a daily basis.  Next, start with one meal, like organic oatmeal and fruit for breakfast.  After a week or a few days, replace another meal with organic foods.  Do so until you are completely organic.

You will want to examine and try as many organic food products as you can.  You should have multiple brands and flavors to choose from.  For example, Simply Organic and other manufacturers sell organic flavors, extracts, spices, and dinner mixes.  Give as many of these items and flavors as you can a try until you are able to find something that you like.  This is a nice approach to take because it is important to remember that there are a large number of benefits to eating organic foods - even besides reducing your toxic load, as important as that is.