Common Insecticides May Be Linked to Kids' Behavior Problems

Pyrethroids—synthetic chemicals derived from natural chemicals found in chrysanthemums—have risen in popularity over the past decade. There are currently more than 3,500 commercial products containing this insecticide Animal studies suggest pyrethroids cause neurological-, immune-, and reproductive damage. Now, Canadian research suggests pyrethroids may be associated with behavior problems in children A 10-fold increase in urinary levels of one specific pyrethroid breakdown product doubled the child’s risk of scoring high for parent-reported behavioral problems, such as inattention and hyperactivity A previous study found that toddlers who had been exposed to pyrethroids while in utero had lower development scores compared to unexposed children Safer alternatives to roach sprays, mosquito sprays, and flea and tick treatments include the use of essential oils and extracts, boric acid, minor dietary adjustments, and simple prevention tactics such as planting marigolds Source" Dr.Mercola.com