Access Denied
IMPORTANT! If you’re a store owner, please make sure you have Customer accounts enabled in your Store Admin, as you have customer based locks set up with EasyLockdown app. Enable Customer Accounts
Fluoride Study Linked to Thyroid Problems
Paula Gallagher on
A recent study out of England has found a link between the amount of fluoride in public drinking water and a rise in incidence of hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). The study, published in the Journal of Epidemiology & Community Health, compared 2012 national data on levels of fluoride in drinking water to trends for hypothyroidism as diagnosed by family physicians across England.
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland near the base of the neck that produces hormones. Thyroid hormones control the rate of many body activities, including how fast calories are burned and how fast the heart beats. If the thyroid gland isn't active enough, it does not make enough thyroid hormone to meet the body's needs.
The research found that in areas where tap water fluoride levels exceeded 0.3 milligrams per liter, the risk for having an underactive thyroid rose by 30%. The study, led by Stephen Peckham of the University of Kent in Canterbury, England found that hypothyroidism rates were nearly double in urbanized regions that had fluoridated tap water, compared with regions that did not.
Fluoride is added to water to prevent tooth decay. According to the American Dental Association, studies show that community water fluoridation prevents at least 25% of tooth decay in children and adults throughout the lifespan even though fluoride is widely available as a topical ingredient in toothpaste and mouthwash.
The British researchers say that although fluoridation of the water supply may be important for dental health, studies have also shown that iodine deficiency that may be caused by extra ingestion of fluoride is related to hypothyroidism.
In the US alone, there are over 15 million people affected by hypothyroidism, where water is fluoridated.
"Consideration needs to be given to reducing fluoride exposure," the researchers wrote. They believe that public efforts to strengthen dental health should move away from fluoridated water and instead "switch to topical fluoride-based and non-fluoride-based interventions."
Fluoridation of water is also a controversial topic because fluoride has been shown to be a developmental neurotoxin, and the amount of water people drink varies widely.
Photo from here, with thanks.
Categories
Humanized Health - NEW!
Learn about personalized health from top experts! Check out our fascinating new shows every week, available as videos, podcasts and transcripts.:
Our Bloggers
-
Paula Gallagher
Paula is a highly qualified and experienced nutrition counselor on the staff at Village Green.
read more.. -
Margo Gladding
Margo's impressive knowledge base is the result of a unique blend of educational and professional experience.
read more.. -
Dr. Neal Barnard
Dr. Barnard leads programs advocating for preventive medicine, good nutrition, and higher ethical standards in research.
read more.. -
Dr. Joseph Pizzorno
Dr. Joseph Pizzorno, ND is a pioneer of integrative medicine and a leading authority on science-based natural medicine.
read more.. -
Debi Silber
Debi is a registered dietitian with a master’s degree in nutrition, a personal trainer, and whole health coach.
read more.. -
Teri Cochrane
Teri is a is a Certified Coach Practitioner with extensive certifications and experience in holistic medicinal practices.
read more.. -
Dr. Rav Ivker
Dr. Rav Ivker is a holistic family physician, health educator, and best-selling author.
read more.. -
Susan Levin
Susan writes about the connection between plant-based diets and a reduced risk of chronic diseases.
read more.. -
Dr. Rob Brown
Dr. Brown's blended perspective of healthcare includes a deeply rooted passion for wellness and spiritual exploration.
read more..
← Older Post
Newer Post →