More Plants, Less Pesticides: Your Summer Produce Strategy
There’s something so magical about this season—the colors, the freshness, and the unbeatable taste of in-season fruits and veggies. From juicy peaches and heirloom tomatoes to crisp cucumbers and vibrant berries, summer produce is at its peak. It’s the perfect time to enjoy nature’s bounty and fill your plate with whole, real foods that love you back.
But as we roam the farmers market or grocery store, one question pops up again and again:
“Should I buy organic?”
And if not, how can I still protect my body from unwanted chemicals?
Let’s explore what science—and experts like Dr. Casey Means—are saying about the benefits of organic, and how you can make smart choices no matter your grocery budget.
Why All the Hype About Organic?
Organic produce is grown without synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It’s also often higher in certain nutrients. Studies suggest that organic foods may have higher antioxidant levels and significantly fewer pesticide residues.
In her research and interviews, Dr. Casey Means—a Stanford-trained physician and metabolic health expert—emphasizes that toxins from pesticides can disrupt hormones, gut health, and long-term metabolic function. Our bodies are biologically wired to thrive on clean, whole foods. When those foods come with chemical baggage, it can interfere with cellular communication and increase oxidative stress.
In short: cleaner food = cleaner signals = better health.
But What If Organic Isn’t in the Budget?
Organic is ideal, but let’s be real—it’s not always affordable or accessible. The good news is, you can still enjoy many of the benefits of organic produce by focusing on a few key practices:
1. Prioritize the “Dirty Dozen”
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) releases an annual list of the most pesticide-heavy produce. These are the items to try to buy organic when you can—think strawberries, spinach, apples, and grapes.
2. Wash Smart with Citrus Essential Oils
For everything else, doTERRA’s citrus essential oils—like Lemon, Grapefruit, or Wild Orange—are amazing natural cleaning agents.
Why? The compound d-limonene, found abundantly in citrus oils, is shown to help break down pesticide residues and waxes on produce surfaces. It binds to fat-soluble toxins and helps lift them from the surface of fruits and vegetables.
Just add 2–3 drops of Lemon essential oil to a bowl of cool water, soak your produce for 5–10 minutes, then rinse.
This easy step helps reduce chemical residue and can even extend shelf life by reducing microbial contamination.
3. Choose Local or Farmers Market Produce
Many small farms follow organic practices but aren’t certified due to cost. Don’t hesitate to ask your local grower how they raise their crops—you might get all the organic benefits without the official label.
Embrace the Season, Empower Your Choices
You don’t have to have a perfect pantry or a 100% organic cart to protect your health. Awareness, smart swaps, and small steps go a long way. Whether it’s rinsing with Lemon essential oil, buying local, or just eating more fruits and veggies overall, your body will thank you.
So go ahead—slice that watermelon, roast those summer squash, and drizzle that peach with balsamic. This is your season to feel alive, nourished, and connected to what matters most.