Here is a really interesting article that I read in the NY Times discussing the potential causes of early puberty in girls:  Puberty Before Age 10 – A New ‘Normal’? – NYTimes.com

Although doctors and scientists do not have a definitive answer as to why so many girls with no signs of medical disorder are on the puberty fast-track, the article talks about some contributing factors: “[g]irls who are overweight are more likely to enter puberty early than thinner girls, and the ties between obesity and puberty start at a very young age”; “animal studies show that the exposure to some environmental chemicals can cause bodies to mature early”; “[o]ne concern, among parents and researchers, is the effect of simultaneous exposures to many estrogen-mimics, including the compound BPA”; “[f]amily stress can disrupt puberty timing”.

Although we don’t have a definitive answer as to the causes, I find this all very disturbing.  No doubt, modernity brings many benefits and conveniences, but also many stresses, uncertainties, and trap doors.  Being a recent cancer survivor, I already over-analyze most foods that I’m about to eat (although an occasional french fry somehow makes it past the gates).  I think as consumers we have more power than we think over our food choices.  If you don’t believe that, then realize that companies spend tons of money and time trying to figure out what we the consumers want to buy.  But, of course, there are some who don’t have access to fresh food.  In this regard, I feel so lucky that I can shop at my local farmer’s market.  Just something to think about.