(NaturalHealth365)  It wasn’t long ago when publicly questioning fluoride levels in public water was considered “conspiratorial.”  Most people accepted the government narrative that fluoride was necessary for optimal dental health.  However, the feds backtracked in 2015, suggesting local municipalities reduce fluoride levels from 1.2 milligrams per liter to 0.7 milligrams per liter.

The harmful impact of childhood fluoride exposure is becoming more apparent as scientists develop a better understanding of the controversial chemical.  In fact, a recent study shows childhood exposure to fluoride leads to unfavorable cardiometabolic outcomes.

Follow real science, and you’ll think twice before exposing your child to fluoride

A recent study has highlighted a concerning link between early-life fluoride exposure and potential cardiometabolic issues.  Conducted on children aged 4 to 8, this research utilized linear regression models, revealing that fluoride exposure during these crucial years could lead to changes in adipokines, lipids, and diabetes-related biomarkers.

Adipokines, proteins released by fat cells, can trigger inflammation linked to obesity.  Moreover, they might play a role in metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and atherosclerosis.

Additionally, the findings indicate that fluoride is associated with an uptick in youth zBMI, a measurement adjusting BMI for age and gender.  Intriguingly, the effects of fluoride were more pronounced in girls younger than 8 and in boys precisely at the age of 8.

However, the study’s scope is not without its critiques.  Some argue the sample size was relatively small, encompassing only 500 children of Mexican origin.  These participants were part of the broader PROGRESS cohort, focusing on research related to obesity, growth, environmental factors, and societal stresses.

Tips to reduce fluoride exposure

1. Water choices:  Given that water fluoridation is widespread in many regions, it’s essential to be aware of your water sources.  Consider installing a water filter designed to remove fluoride.  Reverse osmosis filters are particularly effective in this regard.  Additionally, bottled water brands that specifically state they use a filtration process that removes fluoride can be a safer option.
2. Natural alternatives:  If you’re looking for alternatives to conventional toothpaste and mouthwash, consider natural and organic brands.  Many health food stores and online platforms offer fluoride-free toothpaste options that rely on natural ingredients like coconut oil, baking soda, and essential oils for oral care.
3. Tea and processed foods:  Be aware that certain processed foods and beverages, including some teas, can contain elevated levels of fluoride.  While it’s challenging to eliminate these completely, being conscious of your intake and choosing alternatives when possible can help reduce overall exposure.
4. Dental visits:  During dental check-ups, discuss your concerns about fluoride with a holistic or biological dentist.  They can provide insights tailored to your oral health needs and may offer fluoride-free treatments or alternatives for certain procedures.
5. Home cooking:  Whenever feasible, prepare meals at home using fresh ingredients.  This not only allows you to control the fluoride content but also ensures you’re consuming a healthier, balanced diet.

While the evidence and debates continue, it’s always a good practice to prioritize your health and make informed choices.  Encouragingly, there are practical steps and alternatives available to reduce your fluoride intake.

Editor’s note: Did you know that 80% of disease symptoms are triggered by problems in the mouth?  Find out how to avoid chronic diseases by fixing problems in the mouth, own the Holistic Oral Health Summit, created by NaturalHealth365 Programs.

Sources for this article include:

Sciencedirect.com
Newsweek.com