Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (better know as ADD or ADHD) is one of the most commonly diagnosed developmental disorders in children. Children with ADHD have impaired functioning in many different areas including at school, at home, and in relationships with friends. If left untreated, the disorder can have negative impacts well into adolescence and even adulthood.
There are new clues however as to what could be causing ADHD. A recent study published in the journal Pediatrics suggests that a type of pesticide called organophosphates, which is commonly used on fruits and veggies (especially strawberries, frozen blueberries and celery), may raise the risk of children getting ADHD.
The study followed 1,000 children and found that children whose urine contained elevated pesticide levels were most likely to suffer from ADHD. I have to mention that researchers did not indicate where the pesticides came from; whether kids ate produce or drank water that contained pesticides or played in the grass or a home that was treated with pesticides.
Although the results of this study are inconclusive, this is just one more piece of information that supports limiting exposure to pesticides. You can limit your child’s exposure to pesticides by giving them organic fruits and vegetables. Another option is to buy fruits and vegetables that are in season or locally grown since less pesticide is needed to preserve the food during travel. They will often be more affordable and taste better too! Also be sure to wash your produce thoroughly, but keep in mind that washing alone won't help if the chemical has soaked in beyond the skin of the fruit.
- Lauren
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Labels: healthy parenting, Lauren, Organic
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