[FarmGirl's stream of consciousness]

Often we are asked if organic is better. It’s a question that has too many variables in order to give a simple answer. It is our responsibility to learn about the food we eat; the processes, the people involved, the global effect so that we may make the best decisions for our health regarding food and food stuff.

It is most important that we open our mind to learning about all aspects of agriculture, from integrated pest management to organic procedures. There are reasons for it all.

As obesity and Type II diabetes continue to rise in children there is a significant need for understanding what it is we are consuming and how it affects all aspects of life.

We have choices:

Food Choices Can Affect Health in More Ways than One Writer: Linda Anderson, (979) 862-1460,lw-anderson@tamu.edu Contact: Dr. Mickey Bielamowicz, (979) 845-6379,m-bielamowicz@tamu.edu

COLLEGE STATION – You've read the stories about improving health through proper nutrition and exercise, and you're all ready to get started. You read about the updated Food Guide Pyramid from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and are determined to use it as your basis for a more healthful diet. You have decided to do everything you can to improve your health. But what if some of the most recommended foods upset your stomach? How can you make sure you're getting balanced nutrition if you can't eat whole food groups?