What they are: Used to deter insects, these are the oldest and most toxic pesticides. While known dangerous organochlorine pesticides like DDT were banned decades ago, others are still in use. F
How they might harm: Organochlorine pesticides may be linked to diabetes, as in the lab, these chemicals impair insulin function. In addition, a 2011 study of 2,000 adults found those with whose levels of these chemicals in their blood were in the top 10 percent were more than twice as likely to suffer type 2 Diabetes, compared with those in the bottom 10 percent.
How to avoid them: Most of us simply can’t afford to eat organic all the time, but we can reduce our intake of pesticides by buying organic when it comes to the most chemical-laden produce, included “The Dirty Dozen” list by the Environmental Working Group. Also, look out for lidane, an organochlorine insecticide still used in lice shampoos.