Fluoride 24 August 2009
Fluoride is added to many domestic water supplies in an attempt to decrease the incidence of tooth cavities. It has been shown repeatedly to inhibit thyroid function by:
- competing with iodine uptake by the thyroid gland.
- blocking the attachment of T3 to its intracellular receptor.
- inhibiting the conversion of the inactive T4 to the active T3 by inhibiting the enzyme 5’ deiodinase.
It is also a known carcinogen. Animal studies have consistently shown it causes neurobehavioural disturbances and a recent study found brain damage in rats given low doses of fluoride. The amount of fluoride in drinking water has been shown to damage immune cells and inhibit hundreds of enzymes.
A paper published in the November 1995 edition of the Journal of the International Society for Fluoride Research found that fluoride interferes with the biological action of magnesium. This decreases the activity of magnesium mediated enzyme activity.
Studies showing benefit to teeth have been mixed. Several leading proponents of fluoridation are now active in the fight against it because of its potential for serious harm.
In August 2007 the Fluoride Action Network (FAN) released a statement signed by over 600 health professionals. Its main points were:
- If there is any benefit from fluoride it comes from topical use, not by ingestion.
- Data know shows tooth discoloration caused by fluoride (fluorosis) now impacts 1 in 3 American children.
- Research has shown little difference in decay rates between fluoridated and non-fluoridated communities.
- A Harvard University study showing a possible link between fluoride and bone cancer.
- The silicofluoride chemicals used for fluoridation are contaminated industrial waste and has never been FDA approved for human consumption.