Pesticides and ADHD

    A new study, receiving ubiquitous media attention recently, has shown a possible link between certain types of pesticides and a diagnosis of ADHD.  The study was published in Pediatrics and conducted by University of Montreal and Harvard Universtiy researchers.  The urine concentration of certan byproducts of organophosphates, a type of pesticide which accounts for over half of the pesticides used in this country, was tested in over 1100 children.  Researchers found that for every ten-fold increase in urine concentration of organophosphates, children were 35% more likely to be diagnosed with ADHD.  Perhaps an even more worrisome finding was that children who had even the lowest levels of organophosphates in their urine were twice as likely to have ADHD than those whose urine showed no previous exposure.  

   The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) approved 32 classes of organophosphate pesticides in 2006, despite the numerous requests from its own scientists not to do so.  One particularly disturbing letter, written by the EPA union presidents, can be found here.  

   The findings of this recent study are significant, but it is near impossible to show that pesticides were, without a doubt, the cause of the ADHD.  However, the connection shown here as well as several other studies may be reason enough to make a conscious effort to lower the amount of pesticides you and your family are exposed to daily.  Here are some ways to minimize dietary pesticide exposure:

- Know your fruits and veggies - Studies consistently show that peaches, raspberries, and strawberries contain the highest levels of these pesticides.  Buying certified organic versions of these, and other, fruits should be high on your priority list.  These chemicals are not allowed to be used on certified-organic foods.   The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has compiled "shoppers guide" of fruits and vegetables which is helpful to clarify which varieties of fruits and vegetables contain higher levels of pesticides.  (see chart)

- Skip the Skin - Since pesticides are sprayed on the exterior of fruits and vegetables, most of them collect on the outer skin or peel of the product.  Some can seep inside, but the thicker the skin the more protective the internal flesh will be.  Peeling fruits and vegetables can help to minimize your exposure whenever possible. Things like avocado and corn stay on the "clean 15" list year after year because their tough exterior helps to prevent seepage into the inside of the fruit.
Wash, wash, wash - Switching to organic produce is best, but if it is not possible and you must indulge in the pesticide-sprayed versions, be sure to wash your fruit and vegetables thoroughly before eating it. White vinegar can be sprayed on your fruits and vegetables before washing for extra cleaning power.  Another inexpensive option is to soak your produce in your kitchen sink in a mixture of water, fresh lemon juice, and 4 tablespoons of salt for about 5-10 minutes.  Lemon acts as a natural hydrochloric acid, and will remove the pesticides from your produce much better than plain water.  

Stay tuned for future posts regarding this important topic...