A new policy statement by the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) is warning parents about the potential dangers of pesticides for their kids:
Epidemiologic evidence demonstrates associations between early life exposure to pesticides and pediatric cancers, decreased cognitive function, and behavioral problems.
And that’s why many people make the switch to organic food when they become parents. But this is matter of great controversy. In September, Stanford scientists declared that organic food is not healthier than conventional food, and that pesticides do not pose a risk.
It’s important to note that the data the physicians relied upon to reach their conclusion was based on developmental challenges of babies of female farm workers, not on pesticide residue on produce consumed in the home.
What should parents do?
- Don’t stop feeding your kids fruits and vegetables !! Their benefits far outweigh the potential risks.
- Wash produce well before eating or cooking
- Consider the dirty dozen & clean fifteen when prioritizing which products to buy organic