Should You Worry About Fluoride In Your Drinking Water?

The chances are, where you live, the authorities will have added Fluoride to your tap water.

Fluoride was added to water because there were a lot of issues with tooth decay and cavities, so governments around the world decided to take action – however the route they chose is perhaps not the healthiest or safest way to obtain better dental health. Although it has shown to help prevent tooth decay, it is responsible for many other negative things.There are several dangers to having Fluoride in water, studies have shown several health risks such as; lowered IQ, bone cancer, kidney disease, thyroid function, and reproductive problems. Problems too big to ignore….

A big argument against adding Fluoride to the water supply, is that it is technically a medicine – and it cannot be controlled by the government how much is taken. By adding Fluoride to the water supply, it can be taken in large amounts. If people would like to take Fluoride, it should surely be done so voluntarily – in a way that can be controlled. Everybody needs to drink water and it does not seem just to force everybody to take in extra amounts of Fluoride?

Some local authorities do not add Fluoride to their water supply – so contact yours, to find out exactly what is coming out of your taps.

If Fluoride is in your water supply, how can you avoid it?

You can drink natural spring and mineral waters – and completely avoid your tap altogether. Another option is to filter your water supply to remove the Fluoride (and other undesirables). Unfortunately filters like Brita and Pur don’t remove Fluoride. Boiling or freezing water won’t make any difference either. You’ll need to use a reverse osmosis filter, Distillation Filtration, or a specific Activated Alumina Defluoridation Filter.

Don’t forget conventional toothpaste contains high levels of Fluoride too – so think about swapping to a healthier alternative – or making your own!

If you’re concerned about Fluoride in your water, make your voice heard and contact your local authority.

How Fluoride Accumulates in the Body

One of the lesser-known issues with fluoride is its tendency to accumulate in the body over time. Unlike some substances that are rapidly expelled, fluoride can build up in bones, teeth, and even the pineal gland. Long-term exposure, even at seemingly low levels, may pose risks that aren’t immediately apparent. For individuals consuming fluoridated water, using conventional toothpaste, and eating processed foods made with tap water, the cumulative load becomes significant.

Fluoride and Bone Health

Although fluoride is often linked with dental health, research has revealed mixed outcomes when it comes to bone integrity. Excess fluoride may alter bone structure, potentially increasing the risk of fractures. Some studies suggest a link between high fluoride exposure and skeletal fluorosis, a condition where bones become brittle, joints stiffen, and pain develops. While this is more common in areas with extremely high natural fluoride levels, it raises valid concerns about prolonged low-level exposure.

Impacts on Cognitive Function

Emerging research continues to explore the relationship between fluoride and brain health. A growing number of studies have identified a correlation between elevated fluoride exposure and reduced IQ in children. Though some of these studies are based in areas with high fluoride levels in groundwater, the findings still call for cautious examination. The developing brain is highly sensitive, and as such, many health professionals advocate for reducing non-essential chemical exposure during early life stages.

Environmental Considerations

Beyond personal health, fluoride poses environmental challenges. Once released into the water supply, fluoride doesn’t simply disappear. It may accumulate in soil and aquatic environments, impacting plants, insects, and animals. Some water fluoridation chemicals, like hydrofluorosilicic acid, are by-products of industrial processes and are not pharmaceutical-grade. This raises further questions about long-term environmental sustainability and the appropriateness of adding such substances to municipal water systems.

Why Australia Still Fluorinates

In Australia, many local councils continue to support water fluoridation, citing cost-effectiveness and a reduction in tooth decay, particularly in children from low-income households. However, this approach may be outdated. With greater access to dental care, public education, and nutrition awareness, there are now safer and more targeted methods to improve oral health. Some councils, especially in regional or rural areas, have opted out or removed fluoride from their supplies due to community pushback or ethical concerns.

Testing Your Water at Home

If you're unsure whether your tap water contains fluoride, testing kits are available online and from health shops. These kits provide quick results and allow you to take informed action. Even within the same state, fluoride levels can vary dramatically depending on the council’s policy. If fluoride is present and you wish to remove it, a high-quality filtration system is your best bet.

Choosing a Water Filter That Works

Not all water filters are created equal. Basic carbon filters, such as those used in jug systems or standard faucet attachments, are excellent at improving taste and reducing chlorine but do little to address fluoride. If fluoride removal is your goal, look for:

• Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems: These are highly effective at removing fluoride along with other contaminants like heavy metals and bacteria.
• Distillation Units: Though energy-intensive, these systems boil water and condense it, leaving most impurities—including fluoride—behind.
• Activated Alumina Filters: Specifically designed to remove fluoride, though they require regular maintenance to remain effective.

Preventing Cavities Naturally

Dental health doesn't depend solely on fluoride. A nutrient-dense diet, proper oral hygiene, and regular dental visits play far more significant roles. Nutrients like vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, and vitamin K2 contribute to strong teeth and gums. Grass-fed meat, leafy greens, bone broth, and fermented foods all support remineralisation of enamel. Oil pulling with coconut oil and avoiding refined sugars can also go a long way toward maintaining a healthy mouth naturally.

Taking the Next Step

If you’re concerned about fluoride, you’re not alone. Across Australia, more people are becoming aware of what’s really in their water. Whether you're focused on your family's health, your own wellbeing, or environmental concerns, reducing fluoride exposure is entirely possible with the right information and tools. Begin by checking your local water authority’s report, investing in proper filtration, and making conscious choices about the products you use daily.

Have Your Say

The discussion around fluoride isn’t over. With mounting evidence, many are questioning the practice of medicating the water supply, especially without universal consent. Start conversations with your neighbours, write to your local council, and stay informed. Real change often begins at the grassroots level.

What steps have you taken to reduce fluoride in your life? Have you noticed any health improvements since making changes? I’d love to hear your story—share your thoughts in the comments below.

I’d love to hear what you think about Fluoride in water?