What is Fluoride

What is Fluoride

You may or may not be aware that many cities in the United States add fluoride to the water supply. It is also added to many types of toothpaste. This is mainly done to prevent tooth decay. Fluoride is found naturally in the earth's crust, water, and food. It is a negatively charged ion (F-) and is found in limited amounts in the body, generally found in the bones and teeth.

Benefits of Fluoride

As mentioned early one of the main benefits of fluoride is that it is used to prevent tooth decay and strengthen bones. It does this by bonding with bone and dental calcium to create calcium fluoride, which the body uses for strength and protection. It has been used before to potentially treat and improve osteoporosis.

Because it is found commonly in the water supply, there can be toxicity issues. Consuming high amounts of fluoride over time can eventually cause bone disorders, kidney & liver disease, and heart problems. Fluoride deficiency may cause tooth decay.

Fluoride Foods

Fluoride is commonly found in seafood, water (in the U.S.A.), and toothpaste. Getting no more than 1-2 mg of fluoride per day is sufficient and it generally not needed to be taken in supplement form because it is contained in water and toothpaste.

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