ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) affects millions of children each year, and is characterized by the inability to control behavior, including inattention, hyperactive and impulsive behavior. ADHD, also called ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) covers aspects of both conditions, which is hyperactive-impulsive behavior and inattention.
ADHD and the Frontal Lobe
A recent study conducted at the National Institute of Mental Health, which completed brain scans on 400 kids with ADHD, found that the children had a three-year delay in the development of the frontal lobe. This area of the brain is responsible for attention and planning. The study links the behavioral disorder of ADHD with a more medical organic disorder of brain development.
This three-year delay may mean that some kids may outgrow the disorder. Because of the findings of this study, it is believed that for a subset of kids who appear to catch up over time, it would appear that a small subset of these kids may be able to outgrow this disorder in their teens.
The Link Between Pesticides and ADHD
According to the Journal of Pediatric Study, one type of pesticide, organophosphates, which is used on fruits and vegetables, has been linked to ADHD. The study demonstrates how environmental factors, such as this particular chemical, can influence the brain development of a child; specifically, changes in development of the frontal lobe, which is one of the key areas affected in children with ADHD.
Organophosphates is a chemical used as a pesticide on fruits and vegetables to kill agricultural pests. It works by disrupting a specific neurotransmitter in the brain, which is effective in killing pests but also causes nerve damage to the connections in the brain. This results in hyperactivity and cognitive deficits. Researchers note that according to the U.S. Pesticide Residue Program, organophosphates were detected in celery samples as well as frozen blueberries. Other fruits, such as strawberries and raspberries, also showed certain levels of this chemical. These fruits, however, are also high in antioxidants which help to detoxify the body, so eliminating fruits and vegetables from one's diet is not a wise choice.
How to Eliminate Organophosphates in the Home
Follow the suggestions below to reduce and/or eliminate pesticides such as organophosphates in your home:
- Buy organic fruits and vegetables. Because organic fruits are costlier than their conventional counterparts, concentrate on purchasing organic fruits in which pesticides are used when grown, such as apples, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and peaches.
- Avoid using bug sprays in the home or on the lawn and garden. If using a lawn service, inquire about the usage of organophosphate pesticide trichlorfon. If this chemical is being used, choose a less toxic substance or forego the chemical altogether.
- If purchasing conventional fruits and vegetables be sure to scrub them to remove most of the chemical residue.
Alternative ADHD Treatments
Although medication is still a key in the treatment of ADHD, other treatment options are on the horizon. Much research has been done in exercise and cognitive educational-based activities that aid in the growth of certain areas of the brain affected by ADHD.
Sources:
11AliveNews (Accessed May 25, 2010)
Time.com (Accessed June 2, 2010)
Valerie Williams - Valerie Williams resides in the Metro-Atlanta area. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Organizational Management, and has spent much ...
