30/10/2025
Time to Rethink: The Hidden Side-Effects of Added Fluoride
For decades, fluoride has been added to municipal water supplies and even certain foods under the premise of protecting dental health. The idea was simple: strengthen teeth, reduce cavities, and improve public health outcomes.
But in recent years, research has raised an important question: Is added fluoride truly as safe as we’ve been led to believe?
What are we learning? While naturally occurring fluoride in trace amounts is not unusual, the artificial addition of fluoride to water and food supplies has been linked to concerning side effects:
Thyroid Disruption: Fluoride may interfere with iodine absorption, impacting thyroid function and contributing to hormonal imbalances.
Skeletal Concerns: Excess fluoride can accumulate in bones, leading to stiffness, joint pain, and in severe cases, skeletal fluorosis.
Cognitive Health: A growing body of studies has found associations between high fluoride exposure and reduced IQ levels in children, sparking international debate.
Dental Fluorosis: Ironically, while meant to protect teeth, too much fluoride can cause visible white streaks or even brown stains on enamel.
But why does it matter? Unlike other additives, fluoride is difficult to “opt out” of once it’s in the water supply. Every sip, every meal prepared with tap water, and even processed foods containing fluoridated water contribute to your daily intake—whether you want it or not.
So what can we do?
Awareness is the first step. If you’d like to reduce your exposure:
Consider using a quality water filter designed to remove fluoride.
Choose natural, fluoride-free toothpastes and oral care products (for example, I personally use doTERRA’s fluoride-free On Guard® Whitening Toothpaste—a safe, natural alternative).
Read product labels and research where your food and beverages are sourced.
This isn’t about creating fear—it’s about informed choice. As consumers, professionals, and parents, we deserve transparency about what’s being added to our food and water, and what the long-term consequences may be.
Perhaps it’s time we challenge the assumption that more additives automatically mean better health.
👉 What’s your view? Do you believe the benefits of added fluoride outweigh the risks—or is it time for a rethink?