“Oh, I’m so bummed!” I told my sister Laurie. “I just realized the frozen fruit blend I’m using for my morning smoothie isn’t organic.” I was excited when I found a blend of my favorites (kale, cherries, strawberries and blueberries) all in one bag in the frozen section. However, my enthusiasm caused me to overlook that they weren’t organic. We had just finished reviewing the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) 2024 Dirty Dozen list [page 21]. After reading the detailed analysis of pesticides that stubbornly stay on our produce, I will be switching back to separate organic packages.

We included the EWG’s Dirty Dozen and Clean Fifteen lists in this issue to support their mission of educating consumers. The lists empower consumers to make informed decisions when choosing fruits and vegetables. It’s especially compelling that the food samples that comprise the data were washed, peeled and scrubbed prior to testing. I keep the lists in my grocery app for easy reference when I’m at the market. 

The impact my diet has on how I feel is more apparent now than ever before. I chose to go gluten-free in the 90s to resolve related symptoms. A gluten-free diet isn’t for everyone, as we explore in Balancing Gluten [page 25] but can be essential for those that are sensitive or celiac. It is a good foundation for me, but I also need a plant-forward, low-inflammatory diet to feel my best. Diet choices can also influence our hormones. In our feature article, Nourish to Flourish: How Diet and Exercise Influence Women's Hormonal Balance [page 18], Christian Northrup, MD, recommends that everyone eats “primarily plants along with some organic, non-GMO protein (either from animals or plants) and gets rid of all refined sugars and processed foods.” 

This month’s Women’s Health issue is jam-packed with yummy, healthy recipes including a Kale And Chickpea Bowl  [page 23] and Healthy Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cookies [page 22]. Explore the ecological impact of disposable feminine hygiene products in Sustainable Menstrual Options [page 17]. Discover how to foster guide-dog candidates in Raising Puppies to Be Heroes [page 30] And expecting mothers can consider modern midwifery in Natural Births [page 28]. 

I hope you find inspiration in these pages to choose a clean and balanced diet.

Happy Mother’s Day!

Kris Urquhart, Publisher