How to Get Your Man to Go Organic

Photo: Istock / Photo Illustration by Gloria Dawson

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Is the man in your life reluctant to eat organic food? Are you tired of nagging him to make the switch and obtaining no results? Well, here's your argument: A new study has found that 80% of the pesticides tested – including many found as residue on foods – can make men less, well, manly.

According to the new tests conducted by British scientists, 30 of 37 farm chemicals tested affect the male reproductive system by disrupting their hormones. The chemicals block testosterone or other male hormones, and some may contribute to low sperm counts and other reproductive problems. Pregnant women also take note: Fetal exposure to these chemicals could cause boys some serious reproductive problems, too.

Unfortunately, the biggest suspected culprits in hormone disruption are found in many of our everyday fruits and vegetables. Fortunately certified USDA organic food is grown without the use of chemical pesticides or fertilizers, so you can eliminate your exposure to these chemicals by buying organic food.

With the help of Whatsonmyfood.org, we've identified 10 of the foods that had the highest average concentrations of four of the pesticides researchers identified as being of high concern (fludioxonil, imazalil, dimethomorph and fenhexamid):

1. Peaches
2. Nectarines
3. Oranges
4. Lettuce
5. Plums
6. Strawberries
7. Grapefruit
8. Grapes
9. Blueberries
10. Bananas

Related: The Dirty Dozen Foods to Eat Organic

This isn't a complete list (scientists highlighted 30 pesticides of concern), and researchers cautioned that some of the suspect chemicals aren't routinely tested for on foods. Instead of trying to keep track of what foods contain harmful traces of these chemicals, simply convince your man that organic is the way to go. You'll be happy to have him on a healthier diet and he won't have to worry about dealing with any problems relating to his manhood!

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