If you’re concerned about pesticides consider this: Peeling won’t necessarily remove all the risk, as the skin or peel isn’t an impenetrable shield, and pesticides might still reach the flesh. While a 2017 study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry suggests peeling might be more effective than homemade or chemical washes at removing pesticides, the researchers acknowledge the loss of beneficial nutrients.

Still worried? Buy organic fruit and vegetables or grow your own. Just remember, it’s far more beneficial to eat the produce than to skip it for fear of what might be on the peel. Peels are rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them one of the most nutritious parts of a plant.

Peels are often discarded due to preference - we’re thinking creamy mash potatoes ... yum! But here’s the thing, a boiled potato with skin can contain up to 175% more vitamin C, 115% more potassium, 111% more folate, and 110% more magnesium and phosphorus than a peeled one. Incredible, right?!

So, here are a few more reasons why we should stop peeling our fruit and veggies:

• Peeling contributes to food waste. Mountains of peels contribute to landfills when they’re thrown in the trash. If you must peel, use the scraps in a vegetable broth, or start a compost bin.
• You will save time. Most of the time eating healthier requires a little more work, however this healthy hack will be a welcome change. Give them a quick wash and they’re ready to eat.
• Peels will keep you regular. It provides an important source of insoluble fiber, which is the all-important ingredient for a healthy gut.
• Peels may help you to feel fuller for longer. Fruit and vegetables contain up to one-third more fiber before the outer layers are removed. Viscous fiber found in fruit and veg may be especially effective in reducing appetite.
• Peels may help to prevent certain diseases. Fruit and veg contain antioxidants which may help lower the risk of heart disease and certain types of cancers. These antioxidants have also been linked to a lower risk of neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.

Sure, some fruit and vegetables are hard to peel, difficult to digest, bitter-tasting, or simply inedible. So, take your green mindset a step further and give your fruit and vegetable waste a new purpose.

Get creative and create homemade potpourri with dried fruit peels and spices. Or toss citrus peels into a hot bath to create a spa-like aromatic retreat. Have you ever tried crunchy, crispy beetroot chips, or a shaved cucumber salad? Delicious!

Are you still peeling your fruit and vegetables?

Source: cookinglight.com, washingtonpost.com, plantifulcoach.com, tomsofmaine.com, womenshealthmag.com, healthline.com

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.