http://buyorganiccoffee.org/551/can-organic-food-help-depression/ Can Organic Food Help Depression? "Food can have an immediate and lasting effect on mental health and behavior because of the way it affects the structure and function of the brain." That is one of the statements in a recently released study concerning the effect of food on the mind. Think about the things that go into our bodies every day; air, water, and food. Our bodies use these elements for our very existence. The body wouldn't last long if any of these basic requirements weren't met. * Air: We know that inhaling smoke and other pollutants is detrimental to our physical as well as our mental health. * Water: We also know that there are many diseases that can be contracted from unsafe drinking water, and some of these diseases can cause brain damage, among other things. * Food: If air and water can affect our physical and mental well-being, then don't you think that food might also affect our physical as well as our mental well-being? It stands to reason! There are all kinds of "stuff" in food that the body uses as fuel. Sometimes we eat food just because it "tastes good." But the food choices that we make can and do affect our brain function, and there really isn't much doubt about that one. There is a much higher incidence of depression in countries where little fish is eaten. Scientists also know that schizophrenia is linked to a deficiency of antioxidant vitamins and essential fats. Yes, food affects the brain. What's IN and ON that food also affects the brain. The government has established "safe" levels of toxic chemicals that are allowed on traditionally grown fruits and vegetables. It has also established "safe" levels of antibiotics and growth hormones that are "safe" in meat products. The question is, safe for whom, and how much is too much? I think I'll stick with organically produced meat!