US EditionLong-Term Study Finds No Link Between Fluoride in Drinking Water and IQ
Researchers tracked more than 10,000 people for 80 years and found no measurable IQ difference between children exposed to fluoridated water and those who were not.
- On Thursday, Dr. Todd Ellerin discussed a new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences finding no evidence that fluoridated water negatively affects IQ, tracking over 10,000 people in Wisconsin for about 80 years.
- Ellerin noted that earlier studies suggesting IQ links involved fluoride exposure levels much higher than the 0.7mg/L limit typical in the United States, which balances safety and dental benefits.
- In Calgary, Canada, dental cavities increased significantly 20 years after the city eliminated fluoride from its water supply, illustrating negative outcomes communities experienced after removal.
- At recommended levels, the primary risk is dental fluorosis, a cosmetic condition causing mild staining; Ellerin advises parents to use only small amounts of fluoride toothpaste for children ages 0 to 3.
- Fluoride has been added to U.S. water since the 1940s to prevent tooth decay; Ellerin compared the concentration to putting seven drops into 2.5 million liters of water, illustrating its minimal exposure.
19 Articles
19 Articles
Fluoride in drinking water doesn’t make you dumber, new study says
The debate over fluoride in drinking water is hotter than ever, with passionate arguments on both sides. Now, a groundbreaking long-term study is reshaping the conversation and challenging some of the most common concerns. According to NBC News, researchers found no measurable differences in intelligence or brain function among people who grew up with fluoridated water, even decades later. The findings directly push back on claims from public fi…
Fluoride, present in various sources of water and products, is known mainly for its benefits in dental health
Is fluoride linked to brain function changes?
Fluoride and IQ: long term study finds no cognitive harm A long term study following more than 10,000 people found no negative effects of fluoridated water on brain function and IQ. Participants’ intelligence and cognitive performance were reportedly the same whether they drank fluoridated water…
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