Q: I find myself limiting my produce selections in order to avoid the most contaminated fruits and vegetables, and def-nitely feel as if Im not getting the variety that is recommend- ed. What is more important: consuming the greatest variety (a rainbow of colors) or adhering to fewer items that are organic?

Answer : A If youre concerned about pesticides in produce, its smart to be selective: Not all produce presents the same risk of contamination. You can download a free guide or even an iPhone app from the Environmental Working Group www.foodnews.org/wallet- guide.phpthat lists the 10 most-contaminat- ed and 15 cleanest fruits and vegetables.

Weighing the risks of pesticide exposure against nutritional needs is of course a person- al choice. But we asked Alice H. Lichtenstein, DSc, director of Tufts HNRCA Cardiovascular Nutrition Laboratory, how she balances these sometimes-competing health interests. Her answer? Hands down, she says, shed opt for eating a rainbow of healthy fruits and vegetables.

Pesticide concerns aside, note that several studies have failed to fnd any nutritional advantage to organic foods.