A new report from the National Toxicology Program (NTP) indicates a potential link between high fluoride levels in drinking water and lower IQ in children, particularly when levels exceed 1.5 milligrams per liter. This marks the first time a federal agency has acknowledged, with moderate confidence, this association based on a systematic review of studies conducted in various countries including Canada, China, and Mexico.
While the US has a lower recommended limit of 0.7 milligrams per liter established in 2015, some Americans may still be exposed to higher fluoride levels due to natural sources.
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“Since 1945, the use of fluoride has been a successful public health initiative for reducing dental cavities and improving general oral health of adults and children,” the report stated. “There is a concern, however, that some pregnant women and children may be getting more fluoride than they need because they now get fluoride from many sources, including treated public water, water-added foods and beverages, teas, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash, and the combined total intake of fluoride may exceed safe amounts.”
The report does not quantify the exact IQ loss associated with fluoride exposure but suggests decreases of 2 to 5 points in affected children.
Importantly, there is insufficient evidence to suggest that fluoride negatively impacts adult intelligence. The findings are expected to fuel discussions on the safety and health implications of fluoride in public water supplies.
Connor Walcott is a staff writer for Valuetainment.com. Follow Connor on X and look for him on VT’s “The Unusual Suspects.”
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