September is National Fruits & Veggies Month, the perfect reminder to check what’s really on our plates. Kids and parents alike benefit when we eat more whole foods — but not all fruits and vegetables are created equal. The Environmental Working Group (EWG.org) helps families by publishing the Dirty Dozen and Clean 15 lists each year, showing which produce carries the most pesticides and which are safer to buy conventionally.
The Dirty Dozen — Buy These Organic
The “Dirty Dozen” are the top 12 fruits and veggies with the highest pesticide residues. This year’s list includes:
- Spinach
- Strawberries
- Kale, Collard & Mustard Greens
- Grapes
- Peaches
- Cherries
- Nectarines
- Pears
- Apples
- Blackberries
- Blueberries
- Potatoes
These foods are best bought organic whenever possible, especially for kids whose developing bodies are more sensitive to chemicals.
The Clean 15 — Where You Can Save
The “Clean 15” are the lowest in pesticide residues. These can often be bought conventional to save money:
- Pineapple
- Sweet Corn
- Avocados
- Papaya
- Onions
- Sweet Peas (frozen)
- Asparagus
- Cabbage
- Watermelon
- Cauliflower
- Bananas
- Mangoes
- Carrots
- Mushrooms
- Kiwi
Choosing organic where it matters most, and saving where it’s safe, helps families eat healthier without breaking the budget.
Why This Matters for Kids’ Health
Pesticide exposure can disrupt gut health, hormone balance, and immune system strength. For kids, that can mean more frequent illness, digestive upset, and even neurological stress. Whole, colorful foods provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to fuel growth, brain development, and emotional regulation.
The Nervous System Connection
Even the healthiest diet won’t be used well by the body if the nervous system is stressed. When stuck in fight-or-flight, the body has a harder time digesting, absorbing, and distributing nutrients. At Pinnacle Chiropractic, our adjustments calm the nervous system and activate the vagus nerve, allowing the gut and immune system to function at their best. That means families not only eat healthier — they actually get the benefits from those healthy foods.
Nutrition and nervous system health go hand in hand. By choosing wisely with the Dirty Dozen and Clean 15, eating the rainbow, and keeping your family’s nervous systems balanced, you’re building the foundation for lifelong health.
📞 Call Pinnacle Chiropractic today at (941) 822-8828 to schedule INSiGHT scans. Let’s uncover hidden stress and help your family absorb the nutrition they need to thrive.
