Drinking water and toothpaste could be the reason for your child’s lower IQ.
An US government report found an association between higher levels of fluoride in drinking water and a lower IQ of children.
By ET Online
Aug 22, 2024 11:26 AM
A new report by the US National Toxicology Program has concluded the levels of fluoride concentrations within drinking water over twice the limit recommended could be associated with low the IQ for children. The conclusion, based on an analysis of published research, is the first time that a federal agency has discovered the possibility of a link between increased fluoride levels and lower IQ among children.
Understanding Fluoride’s Role
The addition of fluoride is long-standing in drinking water to help protect teeth from cavities and strengthen them and is regarded as significant for its contribution to public health. Fluoride is also frequently utilized in toothpastes. As per the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention the fluoride function is to replace minerals lost in regular wear and tear of teeth. But, this report outlines the potential risks to neurological health that are associated with excessive levels of fluoride especially for children.
Expert Opinions on the Report
Ashley Malin, a researcher at University of Florida. Ashley Malin, a researcher from the University of Florida who has examined the effects of fluoride exposure on pregnant women and their infants The report was described as “crucial” in understanding the dangers. She also said that it’s the most rigorously researched research that has ever been conducted.
Global Research and Recommendations
The report analyzed studies from a range of countries which included Canada, China, India, Iran, Pakistan, and Mexico. The studies found consistently that drinking water that contained fluoride levels higher than 1.5 milligrams per liter is linked to lower IQs for children. While the study didn’t determine the exact amount of IQ reduction, a few studies suggest a drop of between 2 and 5 points among children exposed to higher levels of fluoride.
From 2015 onwards, US Federal health authorities have recommended a minimum level for fluoridation of 0.7 milligrams per liter. This is lower than the previous limit of 1.2. The WHO’s acceptable limit of fluoride levels in drinking water is 1.5 milligrams per Liter.
Public Health Concerns
About 1.9 million people living in America. Approximately 1.9 million people in the US get exposed that has fluoride content that is naturally present at 1.5 milligrams/liter or more. Malin stated that the findings pose questions on how to safeguard these populations and what precautions will be most effective.
The report didn’t draw any conclusions about the risk of having lower levels of fluoride, or their effects on adulthood, suggesting that further studies are needed.
Historical Context and Future Considerations
Fluoride is a natural mineral that is found in soil and water Its role in promoting dental health was first recognized around 80 years ago. One of the first US city to introduce fluoride in tapwater came from Grand Rapids, Michigan, in 1945. Federal officials have pushed for water fluoridation since the year 1950 to prevent tooth decay.
However, the worries about the effects of fluoride upon brain growth risen. Research has suggested that fluoride levels high can affect neurochemistry as well as functioning of cells in the brain regions which are involved in learning and memory.
Rick Woychik, director of the National Toxicology Program, emphasized the importance of having the right science because of the significance of fluoride for public health. In the midst of debates certain experts, such as Malin who suggested that pregnant women think about the reduction of their fluoride intake, and that discussions about policy on fluoride content in beverages could be required.
(Inputs via AP)