Fruits are packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber, making them an essential part of a healthy diet. Regular consumption helps boost immunity, slow aging, improve digestion, prevent constipation, support healthy blood sugar levels, and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Fruits are also low in calories and high in natural hydration, which helps maintain healthy skin and body weight.

However, many fruits are sprayed with pesticides during cultivation to protect against insects and disease. If they are not washed properly before eating, harmful chemical residues may remain on the surface.

The risks of consuming pesticide-contaminated fruit

According to Tim Tiutan, an internal medicine physician practicing in the United States, common agricultural pesticides often contain toxic compounds such as organophosphates, carbamates, and organochlorines. When ingested, these chemicals may cause:

• digestive discomfort

• headaches and dizziness

• nausea

• liver and kidney strain

Long-term exposure can accumulate in the body, affecting the central nervous system, disrupting hormones, and increasing risks such as:

• infertility

• miscarriage

• birth defects

Some people may also experience allergic reactions including skin rashes, itching, respiratory irritation, coughing, runny nose, or breathing difficulty.

Studies have also found potential links between pesticide exposure and cancers such as leukemia, prostate cancer, and breast cancer. Children, whose immune systems are still developing, face even higher vulnerability.

How to properly wash fruit and remove residues

Dr. Tim emphasizes that washing fruit is a mandatory first step. To remove most pesticide residues:

✅ Rinse thoroughly under running water
✅ Gently rub with your hands or use a soft brush

For fruits with thicker skins, such as apples, he recommends soaking:

Method recommended by Dr. Tim:

1. Rinse fruit first

2. Soak for 10 minutes in a mixture of 1 cup vinegar + 3 cups water

3. Add a little baking soda and soak a few more minutes

4. Rinse again under clean water and dry before storing

This helps dissolve surface chemicals, dirt, and wax coatings.

Other helpful cleaning options

✅ Salt water or vinegar water — helps remove dirt and some residues
✅ Rice-rinse water — traditional method for gentle cleaning
✅ Plant-based produce washes — useful for delicate fruits like grapes and berries

The bottom line

To reduce pesticide exposure and protect family health:

⭐ Always wash fruits under running water
⭐ Use soaking methods for better residue removal
⭐ Dry before storing to prevent mold
⭐ Choose natural cleaning solutions when needed

Eating fruit daily is beneficial — but cleaning it properly helps ensure you enjoy the health advantages without the hidden risks.