How risky are pesticides?
Eighty five percent of North Americans are concerned about pesticides in fruit and vegetables.
The pesticide levels in some fruit and vegetables have been reduced in the last 20 years, but others have been in the high risk category for the past 20 years. Finding more than one pesticide residue on food is the rule not the exception. (Often there is a combination of pesticides that are found on foods.) Almost a third of North American produce has residues of two or more pesticides.
Studies link long term pesticide exposure to increased Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, prostate, ovarian and other cancers, depression and respiratory problems.
My experience is that most people, all over Canada have a high body burden of toxic metals. Since pesticides are metal based (arsenic), they may be a contributing factor to total body burden of these toxic metals.
Many of these chemicals have known carcinogenic and hormone disrupting properties. Hormone disruptors can block or mimic the action of hormones. Because the chemicals affect hormone status, they could cause reproductive disorders, birth defects, breast, and prostate and other hormone related cancers.
Children are especially at risk, with an increased risk of developing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and lowered IQ.
Whenever possible choose organic foods. It’s good for the environment and your health!
Dr. Jeffrey J. Hunt Naturopathic Physician has been working in Trail for over 23 years. He is presently accepting new patients. To schedule an appointment phone 250-368-6999 or visit www.huntnaturopathicclinics.com
