Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are made by forcing genes from one species, such as bacteria, viruses, animals, or humans, into the DNA of a food crop or animal to introduce a new trait.

Why Should I Avoid GMOs?

The American Academy of Environmental Medicine reported that “Several animal studies indicate serious health risks associated with GM food,” including infertility, immune problems, accelerated aging, faulty insulin regulation, and changes in major organs and the gastrointestinal system.

**Many physicians advise ALL patients to choose healthier non-GMO foods.

Tips to Avoid GMOs Although most Americans say they would avoid brands if labeled GMO, unfortunately labels are not required. Here are 4 tips to help you shop non-GMO.

Tip #1: Buy Organic! Certified organic products cannot intentionally include any GMO ingredients. Buy products labeled “100% organic,” “organic,” or “made with organic ingredients.” You can be doubly sure if the product also has a Non-GMO Project Verified Seal.

Tip #2: Look for Non-GMO Project Seals Products that carry the Non-GMO Project Seal are independently verified to be in compliance with North America’s only third-party standard for GMO avoidance, including testing of at-risk ingredients. The Non-GMO Project is a non-profit organization committed to providing consumers with clearly labeled and independently verified non-GMO choices. NonGMOProject.org

Tip #3: Avoid at-risk Ingredients If it’s not labeled organic or verified non-GMO: Avoid products made with ingredients that might be derived from GMOs (see list). The eight GM food crops are corn, soybeans, canola, cottonseed, sugar beets, Hawaiian papaya (most), papaya from China, and a small amount of zucchini and yellow squash. Sugar: If a non-organic product made in North American lists “sugar” as an ingredient (and NOT pure cane sugar), then it is almost certainly a combination of sugar from both sugar cane and GM sugar beets. Dairy: Products may be from cows injected with GM bovine growth hormone. Look for labels stating No rBGH, rBST, or artificial hormones.

Tip #4: Download the Guide Visit NonGMOShoppingGuide.com to download the growing list of Non-GMO products available and check out the iPhone application, ShopNoGMO free at the iTunes store.

Invisible GM Ingredients Processed foods often have hidden GM sources (unless they are organic or declared non-GMO). The following ingredients may be made from GMOs.