February 20, 2006

Eating Organic Foods Eliminates Pesticides from Children's Bodies

A recent study shows that children who eat organic produce and grains can virtually eliminate two common pesticides from their bodies within a matter of days. According to an article on Forbes.com, in 2003, researchers recruited 23 children ages 3-11 from Seattle-area schools. Researchers monitored levels of two organophosphorus pesticides -- malathion and chlorpyrifos -- in their urine during a 15-day period in which they alternated between their regular diets and diets featuring organic fruits, vegetables and grain products. The researchers found that the pesticide levels dropped immediately when the children started eating the organic foods.

The article continues: "There is evidence that they're dangerous, said Dr. Nathan M. Graber, a fellow in pediatric environmental health at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine. 'We know that at high doses, these pesticides can cause serious symptoms because they are toxic to the nervous system,' he said, adding that there's 'sound scientific reasoning' suggesting that low doses can hurt the developing brain."

The bottom line: if you can afford it, buy organic. For more information on which fruits and vegetables have the highest and lowest pesticide levels refer to this shopper's guide. If you can't find or afford exclusively organic produce, this handy guide will help you determine where you should allocate your dollars.