Can I Avoid Being Poisoned?

In 2005 Canadians received a shock. Environmental Defence tested the blood of average Canadians for a wide range of pollutants in the fi rst test of its kind. Testing covered a wide range of chemicals found in individuals from across Canada. Toxic chemicals were found to contaminate Canadians no matter where they lived in the country, how old they were, or what they did for a living. Dr. Rick Smith said, “If you can walk, talk and breathe, you’re contaminated.” On average 44 chemicals were found in each of the volunteers tested. Most of the volunteers were eating organic foods. Many of the chemicals found in the blood of Canadians are associated with cancer, hormone disruption, respiratory disorders, reproductive and developmental disorders. Toxin exposure is not unique to Canadians. In 2005 the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that most American children and adults were carrying in their bodies dozens of pesticides and toxic compounds. Many of the compounds were found at higher levels in children than adults.