Fluoride and Your Health

The debate surrounding fluoride and its safety as a water additive or dental health product has been ongoing since its introduction into public water supplies in the 1960s. While many public health organizations advocate for its benefits, there is a growing body of research raising concerns about its potential negative health effects.

Fluoride is a compound containing a fluorine ion, which is known for its reactivity and damaging effects on living organisms. While calcium fluoride occurs naturally in soil and water, the fluoride added to drinking water is typically sodium fluoride or hydrofluorosilicic acid (HFS), a by-product of phosphate fertilizer production.

Studies have shown that fluoride may reduce dental cavities, but the long-term health effects are still a topic of debate. Some research suggests that fluoride may have adverse effects on various bodily systems, including potential links to increased bone fractures in the elderly.

The CDC and other governmental bodies have set guidelines for fluoride intake to prevent adverse effects like fluorosis. However, the margin of safety is narrow, especially when considering additional sources of fluoride from toothpaste, mouthwash, and food and drinks.

Critics of water fluoridation point out that there is a lack of high-quality, unbiased research on its long-term effects. Organizations like the National Research Council have called for further investigation into fluoride's impact on sensitive populations and its potential effects on the central nervous system.

Sources of Fluoride Beyond the Obvious

Apart from toothpaste and tap water, fluoride can be found in various sources, both natural and artificial. These include foods like dill pickles, carbonated beverages, canned fruits and vegetables, certain baby foods, teas, and even some alcoholic beverages. Additionally, fluoride is present in dental products such as toothpaste, mouthwash, gels, varnishes, and supplements, as well as in pesticides like cryolite and sulfuryl fluoride. Other sources of fluoride include Teflon pans, certain medications, and workplace exposure.

Concerns and Risks Associated with Fluoride Consumption

Studies have raised concerns about the potential dangers of fluoride intake, including its impact on brain and central nervous system function. Research suggests that fluoride exposure may lead to cognitive deficits and behavioral changes, with prenatal exposure linked to hyperactivity and weanling/adult exposure associated with cognitive impairments. Moreover, there are indications that fluoride may affect IQ levels, with some studies reporting a decline in IQ points among children exposed to fluoridated water.

Furthermore, there is ongoing debate about the potential relationship between fluoride and cancer risk. A study from 1977 found an increase in cancer-related deaths in fluoridated cities compared to non-fluoridated ones, leading to concerns about the possible moderate cancer risk associated with fluoride consumption.

In an earlier study from 1977, a comparison of cancer death rates between fluoridated and unfluoridated communities over a 17-year period showed no significant difference for individuals up to 44 years old. However, for those aged 45-64, there were 1,500 more cancer deaths per 10 million people in fluoridated cities, and this number increased to 3,500 additional cancer deaths per 10 million people for those over 65..

There is also concern that fluoride consumption may not positively impact bone health as previously believed and may even have negative effects. Studies have shown increased risks of bone fractures and tooth damage in children exposed to fluoridated water. While some research links fluoride exposure to a higher risk of hip fractures among the elderly, other studies have not found a clear association.

Furthermore, research suggests a potential link between fluoride and hypothyroidism, with individuals in unfluoridated areas being less likely to develop this condition. Fluoride accumulation in the pineal gland may also have implications for sexual development, with studies indicating a potential for altered puberty timing in both females and males. 

In addition, evidence suggests a connection between fluoride and diabetes risks, with some studies indicating that fluoride exposure may contribute to the development of diabetes. Diabetics are considered a vulnerable group to fluoride toxicity, yet there is limited public health information about this potential risk. Staying informed about the fluoride levels in your community's water supply is crucial to managing potential health risks. 

Substitutes for Water with Added Fluoride

In addition to ridding your body of fluoride, it’s crucial to decrease future exposure. There are various techniques you can employ to shield yourself and your loved ones from excess fluoride.

1. Opt for organic produce

Many pesticides applied to crops are fluoride-based, such as cryolite. Choosing certified organic foods ensures you steer clear of these pesticides.

Moreover, highly processed foods tend to contain more fluoride due to the use of fluoridated water in industrial food processing. You can consult the U.S. Department of Agriculture National Fluoride Database to check which foods you consume contain considerable amounts of fluoride.

2. Refrain from exposing infants to fluoride while breastfeeding

Studies have shown that fluoride can transfer to infants through breast milk. To safeguard your child from early fluoride exposure, take extra care during this critical period to avoid fluoride.

3. Invest in a suitable water filtration system

Not all water filters are effective in reducing or eliminating fluoride. Standard activated carbon filters commonly advertised for home use do not remove fluoride. However, Berkey carbon filtration systems offer fluoride filters too which should be used in areas where fluoride has been added to the water.

4. Choose fluoride-free dental products

Especially if there are children in your home who may swallow toothpaste, you can shield them from fluoride exposure by using non-fluoridated dental products instead of the commonly used fluoride options.

5. Explore alternative water sources

It’s disheartening to realize the risks posed by both tap and bottled water, but efforts are being made to address this issue. For instance, many communities can benefit from water delivery services especially if the water is from a fresh spring. 

6. Engage in community initiatives

As mentioned earlier, the number of fluoridated communities in the U.S. has declined in recent years, largely due to individuals advocating to their local authorities to discontinue water fluoridation. Communities worldwide are taking similar steps. As you become more informed, don’t hesitate to voice your concerns to encourage your leaders to reevaluate water fluoridation practices.

In conclusion, the debate over the safety and efficacy of fluoride remains ongoing, with differing perspectives on its impact on health and well-being. Additional research and careful consideration of the available evidence are crucial in addressing these concerns and making informed decisions regarding fluoride exposure.

The entire contents of this website/article are based upon the opinions of Doreen McCafferty NLC, unless otherwise noted. Individual articles are based upon the opinions of the respective author, who retains copyright as marked. It is intended as a sharing of knowledge and information from the research and experience of Doreen McCafferty, NLC and her community. Doreen McCafferty encourages you to make your own health care decisions based upon your research and in partnership with a qualified health care professional. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition, consult your health care professional before using products based on this content. All information in this article is for educational purposes only and not designed to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice.