Unsure, Stanford University doctors dug through reams of
research to find out -- and concluded there's little evidence
that going organic is much healthier, citing only a few
differences involving pesticides and antibiotics. Eating organic
fruits and vegetables can lower exposure to pesticides,
including for children -- but the amount measured from
conventionally grown produce was within safety limits, the
researchers reported Monday. Nor did the organic foods prove
more nutritious. "I was absolutely surprised," said Dr. Dena
Bravata, a senior research affiliate at Stanford and long-time
internist who began the analysis because so many of her patients
asked if they should switch. "There are many reasons why someone
might choose organic foods over conventional foods," from
environmental concerns to taste preferences, Bravata stressed.
But when it comes to individual health, "there isn't much
difference." Her team did find a notable difference with
antibiotic-resistant germs, a public health concern because the