Fluoride Court Case
THE TSCA FLUORIDE TRIAL
A while back, I wrote about fluoride. I discussed how I figured out it is an antibiotic, as it is known to kill both good and bad microbes. I also covered how it can affect sleep cycles by disrupting melatonin production. There is a lot more to cover about fluoride. This week we will dig deeper into this subject and discuss some of the latest research on fluoride.
If you’re not in the know, including me, until a few days ago, there is a case against the EPA that started in 2017 against the use of fluoride. The case focuses on fluoride's neurological effects on infants, both in the womb and out. The results of exposure appear to be lowered IQ and ADHD. There are also some effects on the thyroid mentioned and other parts of the endocrine system. And research shows that fluoride can reduce testosterone levels.
The potential neurotoxic effects of fluoride have been the subject of scientific study and debate. Because of its purported capacity to prevent tooth decay, fluoride is widely added to drinking water and dental products. However, concerns have been raised regarding how it may impact the endocrine and neurological systems.
High fluoride exposure has been linked in some studies to negative neurological effects in children, particularly in locations with high fluoride levels in drinking water, such as parts of China and India. Lower IQ scores decreased cognitive function, and behavioral modifications were among these impacts. However, authorities suggest these studies frequently suffered from flaws such as poor confounding factor control, potential bias, and challenging fluoride exposure measurement. Yet, “As of 2020, there have been 72 fluoride-IQ studies, of which 64 found a lower IQ among children with higher fluoride exposure. Many of the earlier studies were in places with elevated natural fluoride levels. There is now very strong evidence that fluoride damages both the fetal and infant brain at the levels used in artificially fluoridated areas.” (FluorideAlert.org, 2020)
Numerous systematic reviews and meta-analyses have addressed the scientific research on fluoride neurotoxicity. A notable investigation by the National Toxicology Program (NTP) in the United States in 2019 concluded that there is compelling evidence connecting fluoride exposure to negative cognitive effects in animals. The evidence establishing fluoride's neurotoxicity in people was nevertheless deemed weak or inconclusive due to the paucity of human research. Yes, there have been over 28,000 children involved in these studies.
Research is still being done on the potential neurotoxic effects of fluoride. Numerous studies have linked higher fluoride exposure to poorer neurodevelopmental outcomes, including lower IQ scores, signs of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and behavioral problems. However, other studies have produced inconsistent results or have been unable to identify any connections. The drawbacks of older studies are addressed in current research by improved exposure assessment and confounding factor control.
It is important to emphasize that excessive fluoride exposure levels are frequently linked to neurotoxicity issues, especially in areas where naturally occurring fluoride concentrations in drinking water are significantly higher than recommended limits. Yet, in countries with water fluoridation programs, fluoride is still added to public water supplies within "safe" norms established by regulatory agencies to prevent tooth decay. Despite the amount of research documenting the neurological effects of fluoride exposure, documents like the EPA’s Questions and Answers on Fluoride make no mention of negative side effects of fluoride aside from pitting and other damage to teeth…only teeth.
The World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Dental Association (ADA) are two health organizations that still believe fluoride is safe and effective when used in recommended doses. They are in favor of adding fluoride to toothpaste, fluoride-containing dental treatments, and municipal water sources. However, these organizations state there is a need for ongoing research into fluoride exposure and any potential harm to health.
In conclusion, it will take some time for this trial to finish. Note that the EPA sets the standard. It is your local municipality that makes the decision to add it to the drinking water supply. In the meantime, note that fluoride affects our bodies more than just preventing cavities. Educate yourself, follow the research, and decide if you want to continue using fluoride. Weigh the benefits of fluoride in preventing tooth decay against any potential risks.
Does your municipality add fluoride? Let’s discuss this in chat.
Resources
EPA.gov. Questions And Answers On Fluoride. 2015. https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2015-10/documents/2011_fluoride_questionsanswers.pdf
FluorideAlert.Org. Quote from Dr. Paul Connett, Ph.D., director of FAN. 2020. https://fluoridealert.org/articles/four-studies/