March health tips: removing (some of the) pesticides from non-organic fruit/veg and how to get optimal nutritional benefit from cooking with garlic
Buying organic fruit and veg is not all about avoiding pesticides, it is also about the soil quality, which ensures optimal nutrient density of the vegetables. However, if you are unable to buy organic veg and you want to at least remove the pesticides, a great solution is to soak the veg/fruit in a solution of baking soda and water for 10-20 minutes. It’s not an exact science re measurements, but fill a bowl with water and add a tablespoon or two of baking soda. Rinse with fresh water after soaking before consuming or cooking the veg.
It is well known that garlic is very nutritious. However, few people realise that before cooking with garlic you need to crush it at room temperature, and then leave it for 10-15 minutes in order for the beneficial compound, allicin, to develop. If you cook the garlic immediately after crushing, the allicin won’t develop. Once the allicin has developed it will remain in tact whilst cooking. Allicin is the compound in garlic that reduces inflammation, has the ability to lower total cholesterol and offer antioxidant benefits.