Fluoride
A controversial element. Fluoride is added to public water and toothpaste to prevent cavities. While topical use has benefits, systemic exposure accumulates in bones and pineal gland, competes with iodine, and raises neurotoxicity concerns in developing brains.
How Fluoride Affects the Body
Thyroid Disruption
Competes with iodine. Was used to treat hyperthyroidism. May lower thyroid function.
Pineal Calcification
Accumulates in pineal gland. Higher than bones. May affect melatonin production.
Bone Accumulation
50% retained in bones/teeth. Increases density but may increase brittleness.
Enzyme Inhibition
Inhibits many enzymes. Affects energy production. Interferes with collagen synthesis.
Neurotoxicity
Developmental concerns. IQ effects debated. Crosses blood-brain barrier.
Dental Fluorosis
White spots to brown staining. Overexposure sign. Affects 40%+ of teens.
The Fluoride Debate
Pro-Fluoridation Arguments
- • Reduces cavities 25%
- • Cost-effective public health
- • Decades of use
- • Supported by dental associations
Anti-Fluoridation Arguments
- • Benefits are topical, not systemic
- • Forced medication without consent
- • Neurotoxicity concerns
- • Many countries don't fluoridate
Sources of Fluoride
Tap Water
Main source. 0.7 ppm target. Check your local levels. Varies by region.
Toothpaste
1000-1500 ppm. Topical benefit. Spit don't swallow. Children's dosing.
Tea
Naturally high. Tea plant accumulates. Black tea higher. Limit intake.
Processed Foods
Made with fluoridated water. Juices, sodas. Hidden exposure adds up.
Dental Treatments
Fluoride varnish, rinses. High concentration. Ask about alternatives.
Medications
Some contain fluorine. SSRIs, statins, antibiotics. Check ingredients.
Reducing Exposure
Water Filtration
Reverse osmosis removes fluoride. Bone char filters. Distillation. Regular carbon doesn't.
Spring Water
Usually low fluoride. Check brands. Some naturally contain it. Read labels.
Fluoride-Free Toothpaste
Hydroxyapatite alternatives. Natural options. Focus on diet for teeth.
Optimize Iodine
May help displace fluoride. Support thyroid. Halide competition.
Tamarind
May help excrete fluoride. Traditional remedy. Some research support.
Limit Tea
High accumulator. White tea lower. Consider coffee. Herbal alternatives.