A new meta-analysis suggests that fluoride, commonly used to prevent cavities, may pose health risks for pregnant women and infants.
Researchers found that fluoride exposure offers minimal benefits to fetuses and young children while potentially harming bone strength, thyroid function, and cognitive development.
The study, published in the Annual Review of Public Health, warns that widespread fluoride use, particularly in drinking water, could create an unfavorable risk–benefit ratio for both pregnant women and their babies.
Philippe Grandjean, an environmental medicine expert, explained that fluoride is toxic to early brain development, stressing the need to limit exposure to sources like fluoridated toothpaste and certain teas.
While the CDC promotes fluoride for cavity prevention, the study emphasizes that its benefits are mostly topical, meaning there’s little need for community-wide fluoridation.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services, supports this view, calling for the removal of fluoride from public water.
Utah recently passed a law banning fluoride in public drinking water, and other states, including Ohio and Florida, are considering similar measures. Currently, 75% of Americans consume fluoridated water.
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