According to the paraquat lawsuits filed in St. Clair County Illinois, and across the nation, the herbicide paraquat can cause Parkinson’s disease.

An experiment in Southern California in the 1980s showed that MPTP, a heroin contaminant, caused users to experience symptoms similar to those associated with Parkinson’s disease. The experiment demonstrated that the heroin contaminant killed dopamine neurons, the same neurons that are damaged in Parkinson’s disease patients. MPTP and paraquat have chemical structures that are very similar.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) declared in 1997 that the primary route of exposure to paraquat was during the mixing, loading, and application of the herbicide, as well as during the post-application period. The agency also stated that, despite the fact that the herbicide is not licensed for residential use, such exposure is possible for people who live near farms where the herbicide is used.

Over the last two decades, scientists have increased their research into the effects of paraquat toxicity on humans, especially the risk of Parkinson’s disease.

According to a 2009 study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, any exposure to paraquat within 1,600 feet of a home increased the risk of Parkinson’s disease by 75%.

Environmental Health Perspectives, in collaboration with the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, released findings from a comprehensive review of Parkinson’s disease cases and pesticides in 2011. Paraquat emerged as a major concern in this report.

Pesticides that block mitochondrial complexes and those that induce oxidative stress have been linked to Parkinson’s disease. Paraquat works by producing intracellular molecules that cause oxidative stress in cells. According to the report, “Parkinson’s disease was closely correlated with” paraquat. The authors also stressed that the risk of paraquat exposure extends beyond the occupational/agricultural climate, and that many people may be exposed to the pesticide without even being aware of its presence in their surroundings.

The study also found a significantly increased risk of Parkinson’s disease in people who had been exposed to both paraquat and a form of fungicide known as fungicide maneb. Finally, participants in the study who lacked an active copy of a particular gene (missing in 20% of Caucasians and 40% of Asians) were at a higher risk of paraquat toxicity.

The EPA announced in 2016 that it would re-evaluate paraquat, including the possible correlation to Parkinson’s disease.

The Unified Parkinson’s Advocacy Council sent a letter to the EPA on July 24, 2017, in anticipation of the agency’s paraquat registration review. The petition, signed by all council members, listed a laundry list of evidence linking paraquat to the development of Parkinson’s disease symptoms and pathology and concluded by urging the EPA to refuse paraquat’s reregistration.

The letter went on to emphasize the financial costs of Parkinson’s disease, including:

Individual treatment for a person with Parkinson’s disease costs $26,400 per year.

Annual economic burden in the United States between $19.8 to $26.4 billion. Costs associated with dependence on services such as Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security.

Syngenta and Growmark, the manufacturers of paraquat, were sued on October 6, 2017. The lawsuit was lodged on behalf of farmers and agricultural workers who were exposed to paraquat and developed Parkinson’s disease. Chevron Chemical has been added as a defendant in the case since the initial charge was filed.

The National Toxicology Program (NTP) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services released its protocol for a study of paraquat dichloride toxicity and Parkinson’s disease in 2018. Recognizing that hundreds of studies have been conducted to examine the correlation between paraquat exposure and Parkinson’s disease, the analysis will attempt to map evidence that links the two.

How does paraquat work?

Paraquat is sprayed directly onto plants, where it destroys the leaves on contact. When the compound comes into contact with soil, it becomes inactive.

The chemical is sprayed to clear fields before crops are cultivated, as well as to eradicate marijuana crops in Mexico and the United States.

Paraquat is often used as a herbicide for weeds that have gained resistance to Roundup and other glyphosate-based herbicides, according to the Unified Parkinson’s Advisory Council.

What Do We Know About Parkinson’s?

Parkinson’s disease is a debilitating neurodegenerative condition that manifests itself in humans in their middle to late years of existence. Tremors in the arms and legs, weakened coordination and balance, sluggish movements, and rigidity of the body and limbs are some of the effects on the motor system. Such symptoms are due to the brain’s gradual degeneration of dopaminergic neurons.

Parkinson’s disease is the second most common neurodegenerative disease in the world. The disorder is chronic and progressive, with current medical treatments only providing partial relief of symptoms. 

While genetic factors play a role in a small percentage of Parkinson’s disease cases, the primary cause of Parkinson’s disease has remained unknown for many years. A growing number of scientific studies in recent years have linked Parkinson’s disease to environmental exposures such as pesticides.

This neighborhood, located in the Bronx, is known for its multicultural community and rich history. With zip codes 10458 and 10468, it covers a compact area bursting with character and numerous attractions.}

Bedford Park stands out for its proximity to the renowned Bronx Zoo. Residents and visitors alike appreciate being able to explore the diverse exhibits and animal encounters offered at this world-class zoo. With over 6,000 animals representing a wide range of species, the Bronx Zoo offers a fascinating experience for nature enthusiasts of all ages.}

Learn more here Bedford Park

In addition to the Bronx Zoo, Bedford Park features plenty of green spaces ideal for outdoor activities and relaxation. One such park is the New York Botanical Garden, which offers exquisitely landscaped gardens, numerous plant collections, and educational exhibits. Visitors can stroll through the vibrant grounds, attend workshops, or discover the captivating Enid A. Haupt Conservatory.

For those interested in history and culture, Bedford Park is home to the famous Edgar Allan Poe Cottage. This historic site was the final residence of the renowned author and poet. Visitors can explore the cottage and discover more about Poe’s life and works. The cottage is a testament to his literary legacy and a highly recommended destination for literature enthusiasts.

Furthermore, Bedford Park is renowned for its diverse culinary scene. Within the neighborhood’s vibrant streets, you’ll find a wide array of restaurants offering diverse culinary delights. From traditional Latin American dishes to delicious Italian and Asian fusion cuisine, there’s something to satisfy all taste buds in Bedford Park.

Residents of Bedford Park also have access to a variety of amenities and services, including retail complexes, hospitals, and schools. The neighborhood is easily accessible to public transportation, enabling it to be convenient to travel to other parts of the city.

In conclusion, Bedford Park, with its zip codes 10458 and 10468, is a lively neighborhood in the Bronx that offers a wide range of attractions and amenities. From world-class institutions like the Bronx Zoo and the New York Botanical Garden to notable sites like the Edgar Allan Poe Cottage, there is always something captivating to explore. Whether you’re savoring in the diverse culinary scene or enjoying the wealth of green spaces, Bedford Park welcomes residents and visitors with its rich cultural tapestry and charm.

Maple syrup is a sweetened drink made from maple sap. Other maple species can also be used to make syrup. The xylem sap of the maple tree is the primary ingredient. Besides sugar, maple syrup is also known for its unique flavor. It’s a delicious treat that everyone can enjoy.

It is lower in calories and has less sugar than table sugar. However, maple syrup still contains a significant amount of sugar, so it should be consumed in moderation. It has less health benefits than other sweeteners. Maple syrup is sweetened with antioxidants and prebiotics called Oligosaccharides. This supports the health of your gut bacteria.

Maple syrup is readily available throughout the world. However, it should be stored in a cool place before serving. Once it has been opened, it is important to keep it in the refrigerator. Maple syrup can get moldy if it is left out for too long. It is best to purchase the larger container, as it will be cheaper per serving.

The process of making maple syrup requires patience and knowledge of nature’s cues. It is important to be aware of the temperature and weather conditions that affect maple syrup production. It takes approximately 40 gallons to make one gallon of syrup. However, there are some methods that can produce syrup in a much shorter period of time.

While most people think maple syrup tastes the same, there are some differences in the taste and appearance. The amber version has a stronger maple flavor, while the darkest version is sweeter. There is no clear winner in this competition. So, the real question is, which is better? The difference isn’t so obvious, and it all depends on your personal taste.

Sugar is a carbohydrate that gives energy to the cells. There are two types of sugar: simple sugars and complex sugars. Galactose and glucose are simple sugars. Disaccharides are made up of glucose and fructose. While maple syrup is the least sugary of these, it still raises your blood sugar.

Maple trees must be tapped to collect their sap in order to make maple syrup. This is done by drilling a small hole in the tree and letting the sap drip out on days with positive pressure. Typically, sap contains two percent sugar. Although there are many ways to collect sap, the traditional method is the preferred one by many small-scale producers. The sap is collected in small containers and put in a storage tank.

Another good way to use maple syrup is to drizzle it over foods. It can be drizzled on pancakes or desserts. It can also be added to whipped cream. It can be combined with other ingredients, like cinnamon or chocolate, to make a tasty glaze.

About Jim Vanderberg

Jim Vanderber from Toronto is known as “Toronto Jim”, and he makes and sells his own maple candy. All ingredients are sourced directly from local maple suppliers, and the maple candy is produced in kitchens in the Toronto Canada area. You can find Toronto Jim’s Maple Candy in retail locations around Toronto. Follow Toronto Jim on Twitter at @torontojim.