Yes, we have pesticides. Monoculture farming. Polluted irrigation water. High-nitrogen runoff from feedlots. Mercury in the ocean. Acid rain. Proliferation of the big 4 genetically modified foods: corn, soy, canola and cotton. When you look at the threats to the health of our food supply, it is worrisome. Nonetheless, organic food is available and becoming more plentiful every year. You can even grow your own at very little cost! And food can be used to heal you. Let me repeat that. You can obtain great quality organic food that can heal what ails you. I am just beginning on a journey of learning all about how food heals. Water kefir is my first foray into the subject and a big success(!), and I’ll be moving on to naturally leavened black rye bread (does that sound wonderful or what??)
I have recently become aware of phytic acid and its inhibitive effect on our nutrient absorption. Phytic acid levels are high in peanuts, wheat, other grains, other tree nuts, and seeds. Phytic acid levels can be reduced by soaking the food in 140 degree water or by soaking it for 12 hours in room temperature water. Phytic acid levels can be further reduced by pressure cooking or solar cooking. This simple act can greatly increase the nutritional value you get from your food.
This is a wonderful website devoted to using food to heal depression.
Here is a website that will tell you the pesticide content of different foods and the risks inherent therein.