I’m sure you already know  – or at least had an inkling (before reading this post title) that pesticides during pregnancy are not ok. However, a new report out from The Organic Center (TOC), a leading research institute focused on the science of organic food and farming, confirmed this fact today after rampaging 150 scientific studies.

The key finding:

A “balanced organic diet before and during pregnancy directly benefits childhood development.”

Important health facts gathered from the report:

• When pregnant women eat organic foods during pregnancy, it “can significantly reduce a child’s likelihood of being overweight, obese or developing diabetes.“
• Exposure to pesticides during pregnancy can increase your risk of having a  premature birth or low-birth weight baby.
• Exposure to pesticides during pregnancy can increase your child’s chances of developing neurological problems and diabetes.
• There are approximately 180 pesticides that are known to increase the risk of developmental abnormalities – eating organically, thus minimizing the pesticides you take into your body can improve your chances of a healthy pregnancy and baby.
• An organic diet before and during pregnancy can help your baby to develop a healthy endocrine system. Your endocrine system is very important. It regulates metabolism and tissue function and folks with healthy endocrine systems have a decreased risk of both obesity and diabetes.

Something important to note is that we don’t just get pesticides from food products. You can also be exposed to pesticides through gardening, cleaning, beauty supplies, and home toxins. To have an optimal healthy pregnancy as free from pesticides as possible follow these five rules:

1. Eat organic.
2. Use natural, organic beauty and bath products.
3. Clean with non-toxic green cleaners.
4. Garden organically.
5. Make sure your indoor air quality is healthy.

Read the entire report: “That First Step — Organic Food and a Healthier Future,” A Critical Issue Report

[image via The Organic Center]

Post from: Blisstree

Pesticides During Pregnancy Not Ok