Heroes and How to Proceed

I've hesitated posting about this, because frankly, I'm speechless. I was incredibly fortunate to be near a conference for midwives that hosted Sandra Steingraber a few weeks ago. It was so amazing to hear her speak and meet her afterward. She is truly a warrior, doing the hard work of deciphering and then sharing news that is hard to hear. Her gifts are many, but one that sets her work apart from the rest is her ability to present science in a way that is poetic. Those of us who have to work hard to digest the science are relieved that her books have a poetry that makes the science palatable.

I hope you will check out the updated version of her book, Living Downstream as well as the documentary film just released based on the film. Her story is intriguing and her continued work in this area courageous. What I learned from her has changed my life for the better and undoubtedly that of my child.

With this amazing experience comes the question of how to proceed. I feel a true responsibility to share information about everyday toxic exposure with mothers especially. It is a difficult topic that many do not want to hear. And I don't blame them. Much would be easier if I knew less than I know. But I've come to know it for a reason. So how do I move forward? How do I reach those women planning to become pregnant, at least planting a seed of what they may want to be aware of as they embark on the incredible journey towards parenthood?

US joins endosulfan ban

While it could become totally overwhelming to contemplate the countless threats to my personal and family health and safety, I still see great value in making an effort to avoid as much toxic exposure as possible. This is an issue that is exhausting, infuriating and sometimes disgusting. So it is nice to have something better to report.

Endosulfan - another in the long list of agricultural chemicals has been banned by the FDA. I have not found research discussing the longevity of this chemical and its residue. Because it is structurally similar to DDT, I think it probably will be with us in our soil and water for some time to come, but that is pure speculation. Used most heavily on cotton, beans and zucchini, this chlorinated insecticide has been shown to effect kidney, liver, central nervous system and male reproductive organs. 

Banning in the US comes late, given that it has already been banned in 62 other countries. But it is still used in Brazil, Australia and produced and used in India.

Next to stop, the use of malathion. Check out this 10-year old letter by Beyond Pesticides.

After attending a talk on chemicals in our foods at Milwaukee's Urban Ecology Center this week, I am again acutely aware of the importance of doing whatever I can to keep my family from exposure to environmental toxins. Thanks to Steven Levsen, Ph. D for the excellent information. He's a chemist, organic farmer and cancer survivor. 

Pesticides and Our Kids' Health

So many scientists and parents, too would like a straight line to be drawn between a disorder like ADHD and the cause. I simply don't believe that's possible. I believe it is a complicated intersection between genetics, environmental exposure and physical and brain activity. But it is affirming to know that studies are showing the link between chemicals and sickness and almost more importantly, that the press is finally talking about it. Surely you heard about this latest study on any of the major networks (Study: A Link Between Pesticides and ADHD) and even the Today Show (their medical reporter found it 'alarming'. Duh.) And bloggers like Red Pill Parents are talking about it as well. Pesticides kill pests and/or repel them. How could they be 'good' for any of us? 


What does it mean practically? The usual for us. Whole foods bought from trusted sources using organic farming methods. And when organic spinach or strawberries or apples aren't available, we choose to eat something safer. We use Environmental Working Group's list of fruits and vegetables rated for pesticide use.