Organic [Infographic] — Generation X

Generation of Convenience

I am a big proponent of organic — but I am also a product of Generation X.  Our generation grew up in the 1970’s and 1980’s.  Today, we are in our 30’s and 40’s.  During our lives, many new advancements and changes have occurred — some for the good — like making the term, “organic” hip —   and others purporting to be good, in the name of expediency.  Because of this, I believe our generation can be labeled the ‘generation of convenience’, as many of the developments during our lives have been a result of craving an easier lifestyle.  Conveniences such as the rise of the Internet and wide area networks, bringing way to things like email, cell phones, and Wi-Fi have “simplified” our lives.   Our generation grew up with the convenience of having our food warmed up, or “cooked” in microwaves.  We drank pop or soda at our childhood birthday parties, then we were able to drink it during lunch at school as it was conveniently dispensed from vending machines.  New “improvements” were being made to those drinks – artificial sweeteners added to diet pop and high fructose syrup added to other drinks.  These sweeteners provided cost savings.  Manufacturers were thrilled!

The ‘Trial Generation’

I have also come to believe that our generation is the ‘trial generation’.  I recently listened to a nutritionist lecture about health.  He also stated the same theme – we are the trial generation.  As I personally developed health problems in my early 30’s and then listened to many of my friends and colleagues also complain of strange health symptoms and hormones being out of balance, I thought there must be something to this.  People our age shouldn’t be sick and dealing with diseases.  Now, when I look at young children who were born from parents of our generation, it’s astounding to note the health difficulties they are experiencing at an early age.

Generation X is the first generation to fully live our lives with many of the modern day advancements and conveniences.  Is this affecting our health in the long run?  You decide. 

So What is a Gen Xer to Do?

There is a lot that can be done.  Some simple action steps that you could immediately implement would include researching and learning about the food you are consuming, minimizing your exposure to toxins, and becoming involved with policies that are — and have not yet — been implemented.  Our generation needs to stand up and take notice of the generations that follow.

We would love to hear your feedback in the comments below!