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Fluoride Info ( & Misc. Health Info comments )
- Aug 14, 2008 at 10:38 PM
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- Comments (51) Total Views (2018) Everyone can see this journal post.
There was so much so I just grabbed some...
http://www.fluoridealert.org/health/
According to the current consensus view of the dental research community, fluoride's primary - if not sole - benefit to teeth comes from TOPICAL application to the exterior surface of teeth, not from ingestion.
Perhaps not surprisingly, therefore, tooth decay rates have declined at similar rates in all western countries in the latter half of the 20th century - irrespective of whether the country fluoridates its water or not. Today, tooth decay rates throughout continental western Europe are as low as the tooth decay rates in the United States - despite a profound disparity in water fluoridation prevalence in the two regions.
Within countries that fluoridate their water, recent large-scale surveys of dental health - utilizing modern scientific methods not employed in the early surveys from the 1930s-1950s - have found little difference in tooth decay, including "baby bottle tooth decay", between fluoridated and unfluoridated communities.
http://www.holisticmed.com/fluoride/
Fluoride compounds which are put in water (fluoridation), toothpaste and supplement tablets (including some vitamins) were never tested for safety before approval. Recent independent research by scientists not associated with dental trade organizations has shown the following:
- Neurotoxic and Lowers IQ
In 1995, neurotoxicologist and former Director of toxicology at Forsyth Dental Center in Boston, Dr. Phyllis Mullenix published research showing that fluoride built up in the brains of animals when exposed to moderate levels. Damage to the brain occured and the behavior patterns of the animals was adversely effected. Offspring of pregnant animals receiving relatively low doses of fluoride showed permanent effects to the brain which were seen as hyperactivity (ADD-like symptoms). Young animals and adult animals given fluoride experienced the opposite effect -- hypoactivity or sluggishness. The toxic effects of fluoride on the central nervous system was subsequently confirmed by previously-classified government research. Two new epidemiological studies which tend to confirm fluoride's neurotoxic effects on the brain have shown that children exposed to higher levels of fluoride had lower IQs.
- A study published in Brain Research shows that rats drinking only 1 part per million fluoride (NaF) in water had histologic lesions in their brain similar to Alzheimer's disease and dementia. In addition, evidence was seen pointing to possible damage to the blood brain barrier from extended fluoride exposure. This study was the third in a series of papers published by Varner et al. Brain Research Vol. 784 No. 12 p 284-298 (1998). Results of this recent study and other studies showing significant dangers from low-level fluoride exposure were presented at a recent scientific symposium.
- Causes Cancer
The Department of Health in New Jersey found that bone cancer in male children was between two and seven times greater in areas where water was fluoridated. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) researchers confirmed the bone cancer-causing effects of fluoride at low levels in an animal model. A new study has shown that fluoridation of water is linked to uterine cancer deaths.
- Changes Bone Structure and Strength
Fluoride gradually builds up in the bones and causes adverse changes to the bone structure. Quite a few studies have shown that fluoridation leads to increases in hip fractures. The tensile strength of the hip is destroyed over time by fluoride ingestion.
- Causes Birth Defects and Perinatal Deaths
A toxicologist in the United Kingdom recently found that perinatal deaths in a fluoridated area was 15% higher than in neighboring non-fluoridated areas. The fluoridated area had a higher socio-economic status and would have been expected to have less perinatal deaths. The fluoridated area also had a 30% higher rate of Down's Syndrome. Chile banned fluoridation because of research by the world-reknowned researcher, Dr Albert Schatz, which showed a link to infant deaths due to fluoridation.
- Proven Ineffective
Fluoride compounds in water and in supplements do not provide any significant cavity-protecting effects. All of the recent large-scale studies of water fluoridation have shown that there are no positive effects. That is why countries without fluoridation have shown an equal improvement in dental health as those with fluoridation. (See Research Item #5.) There is scientific evidence that excessive fluoride exposure leads to increased levels of caries. Even pro-fluoridation scientists admit that there is not any properly-conducted research showing that fluoride supplements help prevent cavities. (Note: check vitamins carefully to be sure they do not include fluoride.)
- Impairs Immune System
Independent research has shown that fluoride impairs the functioning of the immune system. In the United States, where toxic fluoride compounds are regularly added to water and given to children since the 1960s and 1970s, we are beginning to see an overwhelming number of people of that generation who are developing chronic immune system disorders.
- Causes Acute Adverse Reactions
Several double-blind studies have shown that fluoridated water can often cause acute adverse reactions (in addition to the chronic poisoning effects discussed below). Some of the effects seen in double-blind studies include: gastrointestinal symptoms, stomatitis, joint pains, polydipsia, headaches, visual disturbances, muscular weakness, and extreme tiredness. An enlightening review of a book by one famous and well-respected researcher from The Netherlands who found adverse reactions in double-blind experiments can be read here.
- Causes Initial Stages of Skeletal Fluorosis
Fluoride can cause severe skeletal fluorosis at high levels. Chronic, long-term exposure to levels of fluoride commonly found in water and food in the U.S. can cause the beginning stages of skeletal fluorosis including: pains in bones and joints, sensations of burning, pricking, and tingling in the limbs, muscle weakness, chronic fatigue, gastrointestinal disorders, reduced appetite, backache, osteoarthritis, etc. In fact, decades of ingestion of fluoride from water and other common sources can be expected to cause these symptoms in large numbers of people based on calculations of fluoride intake and excretion. (Keep in mind that fluoride is a cumulative poison since it builds up in the body of years.) Very few healthcare practitioners are capable of diagnosing such a condition because healthcare practitioners are not trained to test for or recognize the effects chronic poisoning from fluoride.
- Increases Lead and Arsenic Exposure
Fluoride compounds put into water are often contaminated with lead, arsenic and radio nuclides since the fluoride compounds are toxic waste byproducts which largely come from pollution scrubbers of fertilizer plants. A study published in 2000 showed that the dumping of toxic silicofluoride compounds into water ("fluoridation") causes an increase in blood lead levels in children.
- Fluoride Causes Osteoarthritis
In a study published in Rhuematology International in 2001, researchers found a link between fluoride exposure and the development of osteoarthritis. The level of exposure that caused osteoarthritis is common in the United States.
- Contributes to the Development of Repetitive Stress Injury
A clinical study in New Zealand showed that fluoride ingestion may be a contributing factor in the development of Repetative Stress Injury (RSI) since such ingestion may encourage the development of apatite crystal formation. Elimination of fluoride plus regular supplementation of magnesium appeared to help RSI patients considerably.
- Causes Permanent Disfigurement of the Teeth in Many Children
A very large and increasing number of children are experiencing dental fluorosis which is a permanent adverse structural change to the teeth.
- Inhibits Key Enzymes
As fluoride builds up in different parts of the body over decades it can disrupt the actions of many key enzymes. This fact has been known for a long time.
- Supresses Thyroid Function
Fluoride was given at low levels during the early to mid 20th century as an effective way of supressing thyroid function and treating hyperthyroidism. Articles and research can be found on the Thyroid web page.
- Causes Large Numbers of Acute Poisonings
Fluoride is an extremely poisonous substances at exceptionally low doses and has caused a large number of acute poisonings. This is why a poison warning is now required on fluoridated toothpastes sold in the U.S.
- Independent Experts Oppose Dumping Fluoride Into Water
Over 1500 professionals at the US EPA, including toxicologists and risk assessment experts voted unanimously to oppose the fluoridation initiative in California because of the health risks involved. See summary or official EPA union statement. Even the Candian Dental Association Consultant and Researcher urged people to avoid drinking fluoridated water.
- Unethical
Fluoridation amounts to forced medication of the water supply. Such practices demonstrate a complete lack of ethics on the part of its promoters. Studies as early the 1930s showed extreme hazards to man and the environment due to fluoride dumping and exposure. Companies and organizations involved used the promotion of "fluoridation" as a way to avoid lawsuits due to dumping toxic wastes and later for economic gain. Please read the short history of fluoridation for more detailed information.
- Banned in Many Countries
Fluoridation is not legal or not used in the overwhelming number of countries including industrialized countries. Please see Fluoride Status of Countries web page.
Many independent researchers, organizations, holistic healthcare experts and a growing number of dentists who avoid the use of toxic substances are warning their patients to avoid fluoridated water and fluoridated toothpaste and to definately not give children any fluoride since they appear to be more susceptible to the neurological toxicity from fluoride.
If your water department adds toxic fluoride compounds to the water, the best course of action is usually to drink and cook with bottled "spring" water. Carbon filters do not remove fluoride compounds to any significant extent. Avoid putting fluoridated water in humidifiers. Many non-organic juices have large amounts of fluoride from pesticide residues. It is best to juice your own vegetables and fruits from organic produce or go to a health food store to purchase organic juices.
Avoid toothpastes that have fluoride even if the manufacturers claim that the fluoride came from "natural" sources. Even though topical fluoride treatment may have an effect to help remineralize cavities at the early stages, the combination of a healthy diet, proper dental hygiene and saliva can have a similar effect. It is impossible to avoid swallowing some fluoride from fluoridated toothpaste. I have tried various toothpastes and current use the natural Weleda toothpaste with baking soda. I like that fact that it does not contain fluoride or the detergent, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS).
More detailed information about fluoride and proper dental care:
- Fluoridation Does Not Prevent Tooth Decay
- Fluoride: Detailed General & Scientific Information
- Fluoride: Journal of the International Society for Fluoride Research
- Parents of Fluoride Poisoned Children: Main Page / Toxicological Profile / Thyroid Page
- International Academy of Oral Medicine & Toxicology Position Paper on Fluoridation (Click on Download Article)
- Scientific Statement Signed By 1,500+ U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Scientists and Professionals
- NoFluoride.com (Statements by Scientific and Medical Experts)
- Fluoride Action Network
- Fluoride Issues Web Page
- Fluorides & Fluoridation: Evidence Based on Science?
- Citizens for Safe Drinking Water
- Fluoride: The Deadly Legacy by Gary Null
- Book Review: The Fluoride Deception
- History of Fluorine, Fluoride and Fluoridation
- Article & Resources for Eliminating Dental Disease
- Alternatives to Fluoridated Water
- Preventive Dental Association
- Dental Fluorosis Prevention Program
Comments:
ahh~ GREAT question!! I shall check...
CDC: My Water's Fluoride: http://apps.nccd.cdc.gov/MWF/Index.asp
I guess this can be a General Health Journal, not just Fluoride...
Chicken Pox: http://whale.to/m/butler11.html
Wow... I had no idea! Great information. Our city (Grand Rapids, MI) was the first city in the U.S. to put flouride in the water and we have a flouride monument! It's a tooth in the middle of the Grand River! Apparently though, some officials are rethinking the safety of flouride in the water, so maybe change is on the way. I'd rather not have flouride in our water after learning more about the topic!
http://www.fluoridealert.org/50-reasons.htm
50 Reasons To Oppose Fluoridation
The Seven Most Common Foods That Cause Food Intolerances
Thursday, August 21, 2008 by: Sheryl Walters (see all articles by this author)
Key concepts: Food, Sugar and Alcohol
NaturalNews) Many people claim that their health improves tremendously by cutting out various foods. Avoiding food intolerances can be a huge step in minimizing ill health and boosting your wellbeing. Here are the seven most common food intolerances.
Sugar
If refined sugar was discovered today, it might be classed as a poison. It gives nothing to the body of any value. It causes the energy levels to become imbalanced, and a whole range of other possible symptoms including extreme fatigue.
While it may give people with low energy a quick boost, there will be a low that follows, which causes sugar craving. Cravings are associated with obesity and many illnesses. Fortunately there are many amazing alternatives to sugar.
Caffeine
Many people live on caffeinated drinks such as coffee, coke, or red bull because of the short but sweet energy rush. However, caffeine causes adrenal gland exhaustion, which is a foundation for fatigue and ill health.
Wheat
Wheat can zap, energy, cause foggy head, and create pain in the digestive and urinary track systems. Many people find that their weight begins to drop and their mind is clearer when they reduce or give up wheat.
Gluten
Gluten includes wheat, oats, rye and barley. While wheat is the most common problem, some people need to take the extra step and avoid all gluten-containing foods.
Alcohol
Many people find that they feel much better when they reduce or cut out alcohol. Some people can have one type of alcohol and need to avoid other types.
Yeast
Yeast overgrowth (also known as Candida) is a major player in many illnesses. While some people who have yeast overgrowth in their body can still consume yeast without negative consequences, others feel much better when they avoid it completely.
Nightshade Family
The nightshade family (green peppers, aubergine or eggplant, tomatoes and white potatoes) is known to increase pain for some people. Avoiding these can be especially beneficial for people with chronic pain.
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Honey Is a Natural Alternative to Harmful Cough Medicines
Vegan Pregnancy Diet
by Mindy Goorchenko
© 2005 Midwifery Today, Inc. All rights reserved.
[Editor's note: This article first appeared in The Birthkit Issue 46, Summer 2005.]
Aside from the details of my homebirth of twins, Psalm and Zoya—a vertex son and a footling breech daughter—the questions I get most frequently concern my vegan diet. Many, many women are interested in, even long for, a vegan diet, yet find the idea seemingly impossible to implement. I wrote the following post on an Internet message board to provide an example of a vegan diet during a pregnancy that resulted in an 80 lb weight gain and twins who were 7 lb 10 oz and 8 lb 11 oz.
Breakfast
For breakfast, I usually ate cereal (often flax) or oatmeal with fortified soymilk. I also ate fruit of some sort and a whole grain or sprouted bagel with Earth Balance (a buttery spread made of cold-pressed oils and containing omega-3s and no trans fats.) Sometimes my husband would make me a bagel sandwich with hummus, sprouts, tomatoes, romaine lettuce and Earth Balance. Occasionally, he added tofu.
I also drank a green drink such as vegetable juice made with spirulina, spinach and other veggies or, near the end of the pregnancy, a powder mixture called "Peaceful Planet—The Supreme Meal," which consisted of such ingredients as quinoa, millet, amaranth, spirulina, flax, sprouts and so on. This protein drink came in during months seven to nine, when I really felt compelled to "top off" my protein intake each day.
Lunch
Lunch would be a full meal, courtesy of my wonderful husband, who does all the cooking in our household. He would make tostadas, consisting of homemade corn tortilla chips covered with black and pinto beans, brown rice, romaine, tomatoes, sprouts, corn, sometimes celery or carrot slices, and Bragg’s Liquid Aminos. Or we would have a dish like sauteed tempeh and broccoli on a bed of brown rice. We also ate "chili potatoes"—baked potatoes with Earth Balance and all the tostada ingredients.
Dinner
For dinner, as an example, we would have a big pasta dish with salad and good bread. I spent a lot of time at a local vegetarian restaurant, eating lots of great food, because my husband worked there. He would bring home containers of soup, and I would mix them with brown rice and eat them as a snack. (Big, thick stews can prove priceless during pregnancy when a quick, filling snack is desired.) I feasted on tofu/eggplant casseroles, plates of rice and beans, broccoli, collard greens, tofu and tempeh. I am a big fan of burritos, because you can place a wide variety of ingredients in them, and they taste so good! Watch out for and avoid partially hydrogenated oils in tortillas.
Snacks
A snack would consist of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich or two on good whole-grain bread, carrots, fruit, crackers, raw trail mix and so on. I ate a lot of dried, unsulphured apricots for iron and vitamin A. My husband would pack me a bag of the aforementioned snacks and I would take it with me, often with a big glass of soy milk or other non-dairy milk like almond milk to go. I ran my real estate practice through most of my pregnancy, so I took bags of food with me wherever I went. (Humorously, I just saw a woman recently who hardly recognized me. The last time she had seen me, I was squatting, with a gigantic belly, putting a lockbox on a waterpipe.) I remember eating constantly, so I never felt "hungry."
"Extras"
Every day, I took four to six Vitanatal prenatals. I added a lot of salt to my food (the blood volume goes up 100% with a twin pregnancy!). I don’t remember taking any herbal supplements, aside from some echinacea at one point and garlic for herpes prevention a few times. I drank 2–3 litres of water a day throughout, in addition to other liquids.
Sometimes I would add tofu to my meals as a side dish. I put nutritional yeast on whatever I could, if I was in the mood. For a while, I ingested a couple tablespoons of flax seed oil a day with orange juice, but then it started to make me nauseous, and I quit. I tried to follow my tastes.
I ate no junk food (or packaged food, for that matter), partially hydrogenated oils, preservatives or refined sugar. I only had one to two cups of organic coffee the entire pregnancy. The day after the birth, I lost all taste for many of the "carb" foods I had enjoyed, like bagels and pasta. I didn't really police myself during the pregnancy. I just had to eat good wholesome foods or my body would turn up its nose.
For fast food, I would have burritos at Chipotle or Indian food at a local market. (Chipotle is a place with a bar of food options where they make big, fresh burritos per your specifications.) However, I lost interest in those foods after five months of pregnancy, favoring bland dishes (except for salt).
Midwifery and Pregnancy Diet
While researching healthy twin pregnancies and births, I learned that many midwives who work with twin moms believe nutrition to be the key ingredient in a full-term twin pregnancy. My midwives, prior to learning of our twin gestation, provided me with a guide to protein and nutrient sources based on each of three major dietary styles: omnivorism, ovo-lacto vegetarianism and veganism. Their respect for the dietary choices of their clients impressed me greatly, and I appreciated their simple suggestions, such as eating dried apricots for iron. For clients who are vegan or interested in incorporating vegan food choices into the diet, I recommend Simply Vegan by Debra Wasserman and Reed Mangels. The recipes have simple, basic ingredients and take little time to prepare—a must when hunger strikes!
Mindy Goorchenko, her husband, Alex, and their four children live in Southern California. Mindy currently teaches childbirth education in affiliation with Birthworks and offers nutritional counseling. She studies midwifery with Ancient Art Midwifery Institute. The Web site describing their twins' homebirth can be found at www.EarthBirthProductions.com.
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is there a website or something where we can check if the water is fluoridated in our area? :(
- llansky
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