The results of this study may not be so surprising when you realize that if insecticides kill animal life forms like insects, then they might have the potential to harm other life forms, like humans. Additionally, it is well established that insecticide exposure is a potential contributing factor in the development of Parkinson 's disease.

So a key is to limit, as much as possible, your exposure to insecticides. This includes avoiding using any of them in your home. If you see ants in your home the answer isn't to go and grab a can of Raid or call the exterminator. I have actually found that simple soap and water to clean the trail the ants are going to works very nicely -- virtually no cost or toxicity.

It is also important to avoid pesticides in your diet. That is why you will want to consider eating organic foods.

Not only can choosing organic foods help decrease your risk of Parkinson's disease, when compared to eating a diet of conventional foods, studies have shown eating organic foods can also lead to:

• Improved immune system status.
• Better sleeping habits.
• A slimmer body.
• Higher vitamin E content in your blood.

Although you may think of conventionally raised vegetables and fruits as the main culprits in terms of the problems pesticides can cause, conventional animal products may be even more problematic.

The feed these animals are given is laced with the same chemicals and, when it is eaten, the toxins can become concentrated in the animals' fat tissue. That's why I feel it is particularly important to purchase the highest quality animal products you can find, whenever possible.

Finally, with summer just around the corner, it's hard to mention insects without recalling the bothersome and potentially dangerous mosquito.

Safe, natural options for repelling these pesky critters are available, and it is in your best interest to avoid any products containing DEET. My choice for safely keeping mosquitoes away when I'm outdoors is neem-based Botanical Outdoor Gel, which is free from toxic chemicals and instead contains natural ingredients that soothe your skin.

Many studies have found DEET to have harmful effects. One study found that DEET causes diffuse brain cell death and behavioral changes in rats, and researchers suggest that humans may experience memory loss, headache, weakness, fatigue, muscle and joint pain, tremors and shortness of breath with heavy exposure to DEET and other insecticides.

Children are particularly at risk for such effects because their skin more readily absorbs chemicals in the environment and chemicals more potently affect their developing nervous systems.

In the event that you choose to use DEET, do not use the products on infants and be very wary of using them on children at all (at least make sure products for children contain 10 percent or less DEET). The following precautions were issued by The New York State Department of Health for repellents containing DEET:

• Store bottle out of the reach of children and read all instructions on label before applying.

• Do not let children apply DEET themselves because they may put them in their mouths or touch their eyes.

• Avoid prolonged and excessive use of DEET. Use sparingly to cover exposed skin; do not treat unexposed skin.

• Do not apply repellents in enclosed areas. This is especially important when using sprays or aerosols.

• Do not apply directly on face.

• DEET can be applied to clothing, but may damage some synthetic fabrics and plastics.

• Wash treated skin and clothing after returning indoors.

• If you believe you are having an adverse reaction to a repellent containing DEET, wash the treated area immediately and call your physician.

Related Articles:

Parents - Throw out the Insecticides and Cancel the Exterminator

How to Prevent Mosquito Bites

How to Avoid Parkinson's Disease