Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) has been a hot topic for many years now. It seems that more and more of our children are becoming affected by the disorder, and we can’t help but wonder why.

CNN did a special report on a newfound link between ADHD and pesticide exposure. Research found that the disorder was linked with organophosphate, a common pesticide that is used on fruit and vegetables. CNN reported that “kids who ate high amounts of these pesticides were twice as likely to get ADHD.” That is a remarkable risk increase.

Pesticide manufacturers are, of course, up in arms about these findings. One in particular released a statement saying, “More research is needed to ascertain if there is a direct link between exposure to organophosphate pesticides and the development of ADHD in children. When used according to the label, the EPA has determined it to be safe.”

This type of pesticide can be found on a wide variety of produce, so it may be difficult to totally avoid this type of exposure. CNN gives two ways to limit the exposure: rinse or scrub the produce to cleanse it of pesticide (it’s unclear of whether using a specialized produce scrub is more effective than simply rinsing the produce off), or buy organic.

It’s scary when you find out that feeding your children food that is thought of as generally healthy (fruits and vegetables) can actually be detrimental to their health.

Photo: Blissfully Domestic