Here’s some news you can use for July 2021!

EWG’s 2021 Dirty Dozen List Is Here

Nearly 70% of non-organic produce sold in the United States contains pesticide residue, according to the Environmental Working Group (EWG). Every year, the EWG ranks pesticide residue levels of fruits and vegetables based on samples taken by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Food and Drug Administration, publishing the results in the Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce.
Included in the report is a list of the most pesticide-tainted produce, which is known as the “Dirty Dozen.” For 2021, the following were on this list:

1. Strawberries
2. Spinach
3. Kale, collard and mustard greens
4. Nectarines
5. Apples
6. Grapes
7. Cherries
8. Peaches
9. Pears
10. Bell and hot peppers
11. Celery
12. Tomatoes

In addition to the Dirty Dozen, the EWG publishes the “Clean Fifteen,” highlighting the “cleanest” produce. For 2021, avocados and sweet corn topped the list.
What Can You Do?
Most Americans aren’t eating enough fruits and vegetables daily. Don’t let the Dirty Dozen scare you away from eating fruits and veggies—all properly handled fresh produce, whether organic or not, is believed to be safe to eat.
To remove any pesticide residue, simply wash your fresh produce under running tap water for 30 seconds. If you’re still uneasy about pesticides, buy the frozen or canned versions of your favorite produce as an alternative option. Frozen fruits and vegetables are just as nutritious for you, so find what works best for your household.
If you have any questions or concerns, talk to your doctor.
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SCREENINGS FOR MEN’S HEALTH

Preventive care, including regular doctor visits, is important for everyone. There are certain tests and screenings that are specific to men and their needs. Consider incorporating these four screenings, tests and exams into your life to promote good health and prevent the onset of certain conditions.
Prostate Cancer Screening – Men over the age of 50 should have a yearly digital rectal exam and prostate screening test.
Testicular Cancer Screening – All teenage and adult males should have a testicular exam every time they visit the doctor
for a physical exam.
Colorectal Cancer Screening – Men should have a colorectal screening to detect cancerous cells and growths in the inside
wall of the colon after the age of 50.
Skin Cancer Screening – Older men are twice as likely as women to develop melanoma and men, in general, are two to three times more likely to get non-melanoma basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers than women are. A skin exam by a dermatologist or other health professional should be part of a routine checkup.
Please speak with your doctor about what other health screenings would be beneficial for you and your personal health.
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THE POWER OF COMPOUNDING

Regardless of where you choose to invest your money—cash, stocks, bonds, real estate or a combination of places—the key to saving for retirement is to make your money work for you. It does this through the power of compounding. Compounding investment earnings is what can make even small investments become larger given enough time.
You are probably already familiar with the principle of compounding. Money you put into a savings account earns interest. Then you earn interest on the money you originally put in, plus on the interest you’ve accumulated. As the size of your savings account grows, you earn interest on a bigger and bigger pool of money.
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July 2021 National Health Observations