The Great Fluoride Debate

To fluoride or not to fluoride… that isn’t really the question since about 70% of the US water supply is already fluoridated. Whether you agree with it or not, the majority of water us North Americans drink everyday contains this element. Now Europe on the other hand, is quite different. 97% of the western European population does not have to drink fluorinated water. So why is this? And is it bad for us… what the heck is going on here?!

The actual substance being added to your drinking water is called hydrofluorosilicic acid (try saying that 5 times fast). This is actually a form of toxic waste created from the creation processes of aluminum, fertilizer, and steel. Now fluoride is supposed to act as an agent for preventing dental cavities and keeping those pearly whites well, white. Not to mention you can find fluoride in toothpaste and mouth washes. So why do we need all of this fluoride in our life?

Well the EPA will tell you that water fluoridation is needed to prevent tooth decay. It has been said to reduce cavities by up to 90%. The Centers for Disease Control considered fluoridation as among the top 10 achievements of the 20^th century as well. Does this really make it necessary though for our drinking water? Does it sound like we’ll die without it? I hope you’re not shaking your head yes.

Fluoride has posed a health risk to people who suffer from kidney disease and can also cause fluorosis in young children. If you don’t know what fluorosis is, take a peak at the picture below… disgusting.

To add to the problem, a China study on kids with fluorosis was done where they discovered lower IQ scores. An American research using animals also found out that the fluoride amassed in certain parts of the brain, hindering them from learning. The rest of the fluoride that is being added to our water that does not stay in our system is then excreted into our environment to continue harming other living things.

So is it worth it? Why in the world are we adding fluoride to our water? Don’t you dare say because of our teeth when you can so easily go out and purchase fluoridated toothpastes. Sure, use fluoridated water in countries where families are too poor to be purchasing toothpastes and mouthwashes, but please leave the rest out of our drains. It’s so unnecessary.

If you’re worried about fluoride in your water, here are a few tips in eliminating it from your day-to-day routine.

1. Find out if your city fluoridates the water, if not, drink tap water over bottled water.
2. Ideally, you should want to purchase a water filter that filters out fluoride. Swift Green Filters does just that!
3. Purchase toothpastes that do not contain fluoride. TOMS is a great brand!
4. Educate your friends and family with this education

– K