Study: Pesticide Exposure May Be Linked to ADHD in Children
By admin on Jul 16, 2010 in Supplement and Vitamin
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Earlier this year, a joint research study conducted by Harvard and the University of Montreal reinforced an earlier 2007 study which found a strong connection between pesticide exposure and Attention-deficit Hyperactivity Disorder in children.
This more recent study coming out of Harvard/Montreal, focused on Organophosphate derived pesticides, in particular.
This family of chemicals is commonly used in modern pesticides because it is believed to break down more quickly than other types of pesticides. Historically though, it’s most notable use has been that of a weaponized nerve gas agent.
The effects of this repurposed nerve gas on genetic material is tremendous. Much of the body’s essential chemistry – including parts of the brainstem as well as the genetic materials DNA and RNA – are made up of similar biological compounds. They are so similar in fact, that organophosphates essentially interrupt their core processes.
While this does make them a very effective choice for pest control, it also means that their effects easily cross over to humans who come into contact with them.
The well-documented ability of these compounds to damage or even destroy neurological and genetic material makes the possible link to ADHD and other behavioral conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease, seem that much more plausible in the eyes of researchers.
In both sets of studies, the research teams found a strong connection between ADHD-related symptoms and pesticide levels found in the test subjects’ urine. Their overall conclusion was that the concentrations of organophosphates found in the bodies of most U.S. children are sufficiently high to trigger ADHD-like behavioral effects.
How To Avoid Unnecessary Pesticide Exposure?
Diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder continues to climb. Theories about the cause of this recent surge in ADHD are almost as numerous as the children who carry the label. Unfortunately, it’s still not well understood.
The connection found between the condition and pesticide exposure makes a lot of sense and continues to gain support in the scientific community.
Reducing you and your family’s exposure to these brain-altering chemical compounds is not always easy due to their widespread use. That said, there are a number of simple things you can do to better avoid them:
First and foremost, consume only fresh organic produce. Commercially grown fruits and vegetables are the number one source of pesticide exposure for humans. By eating naturally grown produce, you can dramatically reduce your family’s exposure to these chemicals. A good place to start, is your local farmers market, as they will have locally-grown and organic produce.
Public parks and green spaces are also common places to come into contact with organophosphate pesticides. Pay attention to where your children play. If possible, ask your local parks department what forms of pest control are used at your favorite play areas, and for details on their treatment schedule. This should allow you to avoid visiting on days when pesticide concentrations are at their highest.
I also recommend regular body cleansing and detoxification to help your body purge itself built-up toxins, such as those found in pesticides, and to promote general health and well-being. Here at Global Healing Center, we offer a wide range of natural cleansing supplements that can help your body better deal with exposure to pesticides and other toxic chemicals.
Relevant Articles:
- 50 Conditions that Mimic ADHD
- 10 Homemade Organic Pesticides
- Study: Teachers are Confused about ADHD
- The Cancer Risks Associated with Ritalin
Credits to:Natural Health & Organic Living Blog