Study: ADHD linked to pesticide exposure

Source: CNN Health

Researchers affiliated with the University of Montreal recently completed their study on the correlation between pesticide exposure and ADHD in children. By testing the urine of 1,139 children from various regions throughout the United States, researchers were able to determine that those who had been exposed to above-average levels of pesticide byproducts were approximately twice as likely to have been diagnosed with ADHD.

Although pesticide exposure has long been linked to behavioral and cognitive problems in children, no study has looked at the effects of exposure across the entire population and instead has primarily focused on rural and high-risk areas. Pesticides literally have toxic effects on the nervous system of living creatures, which, while useful for killing off pests, has a direct and harmful impact on our brain's chemicals. Since the EPA has largely banned residential uses of pesticides, the primary source of exposure appears to be commercially grown produce.

The conclusion of this study definitely points to the importance of children consuming organic and locally grown produce whenever possible as they are particularly susceptible to the risks of pesticide exposure.