Let me let you in on something: I’m a holistic health coach, and I still don’t buy everything organic.
 
Yep, even with a background in nutrition, a deep understanding of hormonal health, and a pantry full of medicinal teas and collagen-rich snacks I still shop with intention and flexibility. Because I’m also a mother of three (including twins!) and I live in the real world, where food costs are rising and perfectionism steals joy.
 
That’s why one of my non-negotiables is a simple, low-cost ritual that supports gut health, hormone balance, and immune resilience: washing my produce properly.
 

Gut Health Doesn’t Start With Another Supplement

Gut health has become the hot topic in wellness. And rightly so—it’s the foundation of hormone balance, mood stability, radiant skin, strong immunity, and even how we show up for our kids and partners.
 
But before we reach for the next probiotic capsule, digestive enzyme, or trending powder… I always ask: have we done the basics?
 
One of the most overlooked yet powerful gut-supporting habits is this: cleaning your fruit and veg properly especially when organic isn't always an option.
 

Why I Don’t Stress About “All Organic”

Here in Byron Bay, we’re lucky to have access to gorgeous farmers markets and local produce- but I also live in the same fast-paced world as you. With school pick-ups, toddler twins climbing the pantry, and quick family dinners on repeat, my health routines must be realistic.
 
Organic is ideal- yes - but what’s more important? Feeling empowered in your choices.
 
I always prioritize organic versions of the Dirty Dozen (strawberries, apples, spinach, etc.) and lean on the Clean Fifteen (like avocados, sweet corn, and onions) for more budget-friendly options. And whether it’s conventional or organic, I wash everything.
 

My Fresh Produce Soaking Ritual

This is the exact process I use in my home- usually while prepping dinner or packing school lunches for my oldest. It’s simple, effective, and gives me peace of mind that I’m supporting my family’s gut health from the ground up.
 
Here’s what I do:
1. Put anything with a thinner skin (think cucumbers, apples, berries, tomatoes, carrots) into a big bowl of cold water.
2. Add 20 drops of grapefruit seed extract - I use NutriBiotic GSE.
3. Let everything soak for 20 minutes.
4. Rinse and rub each piece clean, then dry and store.
 
It’s become a grounding ritual for me- part self-care, part mama-mode, and all about nurturing from the root.
 

Why Grapefruit Seed Extract is My Secret Weapon

Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE) is one of those “if you know, you know” wellness tools. It’s antibacterial, antifungal, and antimicrobial, making it amazing for both food and family health. I use it to clean produce, disinfect surfaces, and even as a natural cold remedy.
 
If you can’t get GSE, a BiCarb soda soak also works- just be gentle with softer fruits like berries as it can damage the skin.
 

This Isn’t About Perfection- It’s About Empowerment

I tell my clients (and remind myself daily) “wellness isn’t all-or-nothing”. It's not about buying everything organic or getting everything “right” but more about building habits that are sustainable and supportive.
 
Washing your produce with intention might sound simple, but it has a powerful ripple effect. It reduces pesticides, bacteria, and toxins entering your gut, and a well-supported gut lays the foundation for stable moods, healthy hormones, and vibrant energy- especially for mothers in the thick of it.
 
So next time you’re feeling that pressure to do more, remember that small, loving actions equal big results.
 
You don’t need to do it all. You just need to wash it well!
 
 
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