A recent report from the U.S. National Toxicology Program found that fluoride levels in drinking water that are twice the recommended U.S. limit (but still within the limit set by the WHO) may be linked to lower IQs in children.
This represents the first acknowledgment from a U.S. federal agency of the potential cognitive risks from high fluoride exposure during childhood.
The WHO considers fluoride levels up to 1.5 mg/L in drinking water to be safe. However, the report found that around 1.9 million people in the U.S. may be exposed to levels above this.
An researcher commented that the NTP report was conducted rigorously. It reviewed studies from several countries on this issue.
The findings raise concerns about potential cognitive impacts on children from high fluoride exposure and necessitate further discussion about preventative measures.
More research is still needed on the effects of lower fluoride levels as well as impacts on adult cognitive function.
Source: Disclose
