Parkinson’s disease is the second most prevalent neurodegenerative condition in Australia with an estimated 70,000 Australian living with the disease. Recently ABC News reported on research showing a cluster of Parkinson’s disease in rural Victoria that may be linked to the use of pesticides. An earlier report by ABC Rural stated that research is being conducted to test effects of organophosphates pesticides on the nervous systems of farmers. This 12 months study , long overdue, will be the first step in determining whether the accumulation of organophosphates in the body is linked with aggressive cancers, neurological and psychotic conditions.
International research on glyphosates (Round up) indicates the link between use of glyphosates and neurological diseases, neural tube defect, Celiac disease, osteoarthritis, fatty liver, obesity, adrenal insufficiency, impaired iron absorption, kidney failure, insulin resistance, diabetes, autism and cancers.
While it was claimed that GMO Roundup- Ready Crops (corn, soy, canola, sugar beets, cotton, tobacco and alfalfa) would lead to less glyphosates usage, the exact opposite has happened, due to the appearance of multiple weeds. Crops are sprayed just before harvest, which is not only a health risk to growers but also consumers.
The risk of pesticides exposure affects a whole population
Many Australian farmers may still use pesticides in sheep, beef, grain and dairy industries, even if they are banned, for economic reasons. Organophosphates have been banned or restricted in the USA, the UK and Europe.
Studies looking at many different populations have found that exposure to pesticides, organic solvents, heavy metals and air pollutants have been associated with an increased risk of Parkinson’s. One study showed that patients exposed top pesticides had a 70% higher incidence of Parkinson’s. The risk was the same for farmers and non-farmers. One study found that pesticide Paraquat increased the prevalence of Parkinson’s disease by 250%!
How pesticides increase the risk of Parkinson’s disease?
There are many causes of Parkinson’s, however, it is believed that pesticides may destroy dopamine –releasing neurons in the substantial nigra (part of the brain). This area of the brain is important for movement and coordination. Death to the nigral cells has the potential to cause symptoms of tremor, slowed movements and rigidity.
Some people due to their genetic predispositions are more prone to side effects of pesticides. Therefore their health risk is greater. Reducing exposure to pesticides and removing them on ongoing basis via zeolites and other chelating agents, eating organic or free range food may minimise the risk.
If you would like to know more how natural medicine can help you, please contact Danuta Hulajko on 02 9541 2428
Danuta Hulajko is a holistic practitioner, international speaker, the founder and the practitioner at the DH Natural Medicine Clinic and www.healingremedies.com.au , Sydney. She specialises in anti-aging, autoimmunity, thyroid conditions, digestive disorders and heavy metals chelation. For more information please go to our website. You can follow Danuta Hulajko work, events, seminars, expos, latest health research, her health tips and advice on Facebook and LinkedIn
