should you peel your fruits and vegetables?

For many people it’s second nature to peel the skin off their vegetables, think carrots, potatoes, and sometimes cucumbers. But is this really for a health benefit? It depends on how you look at it!


While some fruits and vegetables have a thick, inedible outer layer (think things like winter squash, celeriac root, kohlrabi) The skin of most fruits and vegetables are edible and contain a ton of nutrients. If you think about the skin as the protective barrier it makes sense because it needs a high dose of nutrients to protect it from getting harmed by the weather, bugs, and other elements just like we need a high dose of nutrients to protect us and keep us healthy. The skin also contains a high dose of fiber which is great for a properly functioning digestive system, and it adds variety to any dish not only visually but texturally as well.


However since the skin is the protective barrier this also means it is exposed to a high dose of contaminants like herbicides and pesticides, if it’s not purchased organic.  As a result we are then exposed to them through ingestion and our bodies have to detoxify them which causes stress on the body and can lead to illness.


So what to do?! Well if you want some variety, texture and added nutrients opt for organic and keep the skin on. If you can’t afford organic or are looking for a smoother consistency to the dish then go ahead and peel away! And remember you don’t have to stick to the same method every time you cook. If one week the organic carrots are sale buy those and leave the skin on. The next week try a new fruit or vegetable and continue this cycle learning what you like and don’t like and creating variety, flavor, and color on your plate.