I’ve been around long enough to see trends come and go, especially when it comes to what’s supposedly good for us. I’ve read, listened, and seen a fair share, and I’m not one to get fooled by a new “solution” without a good look at the fine print. Lately, fluoride has been back in the spotlight here in Canada, and I can’t help but think it’s time we seriously consider stepping away from it for good.
For years, we’ve been told that fluoride in our water is essential, that it’s a public health measure to prevent cavities, particularly in children. This practice, started in a different time with different needs, has somehow held on for decades. But things aren’t the same now. We’ve got fluoridated toothpaste in every home, in every bathroom cabinet. And that alone raises a question: do we really need more of it in our drinking water?
Recent studies suggest fluoride might not be as harmless as we’ve been led to believe. We’re seeing research, even here in Canada, linking high levels of fluoride exposure with lowered IQ in children and pointing to potential long-term health impacts for adults. Health Canada does set guidelines on fluoride, but if there’s any reasonable doubt about its safety, shouldn’t we take it more seriously?
On top of that, I’ve seen cases of dental issues myself, like those white streaks or spots on people’s teeth that come from too much fluoride. It’s supposedly “just cosmetic,” but it still signals excess buildup in the body. And if we’re seeing it in teeth, what else is going on that we can’t see?
Fluoride was pushed as a modern health achievement back in the day, but I’d argue we’re a little too advanced now to keep clinging to outdated solutions. Places like Calgary have already taken fluoride out of their water supply, and many communities across Canada are starting to follow suit. If we’re already getting fluoride from other sources, isn’t it time we stop adding it to the water we drink every day?
If you’re concerned about your fluoride intake, look into filters that remove it, and for those with kids, and I would be darn cautious about the toothpaste too, and make sure they’re not swallowing it.
It’s a different world now folks, and it’s time for us to start asking some hard questions about old habits. I’ve never been one to blindly trust what I’m told, and after looking into fluoride, I think it’s time we give people the choice to opt out and let this old practice fade away. GW