Genetically Modified Foods May Be Cause For Concern

By Michelle Caron


Chiropractors are experts on nutrition, and are a good source for determining what foods will best fuel your body. They can also offer advice on foods to avoid, and recently leading the group of foods to avoid are Genetically Modified Organisms or (GMO's).

GMO's are defined as organisms whose genetic characteristics have been altered by the insertion of a modified gene or a gene from another organism, by the technique of genetic engineering. This somewhat new science allows DNA from one species to be injected into another species in a lab, creating combinations of plant, animal, bacteria, and viral genes that do not occur naturally or through traditional crossbreeding methods. Now this variety might sound like a good thing, but most experts agree that consuming genetically modified foods may be cause for concern.

Many Americans are calling for labeling of GMO foods. There are numerous campaigns on Facebook. Polls consistently show that the vast majority of Americans would like to have GMO's labeled, and that people would not buy food that has been genetically modified. Yet despite the majority wanting GMO's labeled, or even restricted from our food supply, it is now estimated that over 80% of prepackaged foods in our country have GMO's present!

Many countries have banned or restricted the use of GMO's because they are not proven safe. The U.S. FDA approved the use of GMO's based on research from companies that produce or use GMO's. The main way companies accomplish this is through lobbying and campaign contributions that convince legislators to pass laws in their favor. This is why many states and organizations have started GMO labeling campaigns. Most people believe it should be up to an individual whether or not to ingest, or even feed their families genetically modified foods, especially until they are proven safe. Without the labeling, many consumers are not even aware of this potential food danger.

If you feel overwhelmed at how to identify GMO foods and are looking for a place to start, following is a list of the 10 Worst GMO foods that you should avoid. These include: corn, soy, sugar, aspartame, papayas, canola, cotton, dairy, zucchini and yellow squash. Each of these GMO foods has a specific health issue or issues attached to their consumption. Steering clear of these foods completely may be difficult, and you should try to find other sources than big chain grocery stores, such as farmer's markets or CSA's (Community Supported Agriculture). If produce is certified USDA-organic, it's non-GMO and looking for that label is a good place to start.

It may feel overwhelming to identify and eliminate GMO foods in your diet. Your local chiropractor can help you identify safe foods, and can suggest local places to purchase non-GMO foods. Chiropractors can also help you support your healthy diet with proper supplements to keep you looking and feeling your best.




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