A new U.S. government report suggests that high levels of fluoride in drinking water could lower children's IQs. This is the first time a federal agency has confirmed a connection between consuming twice the recommended amount of fluoride and reduced intelligence in children. The concern is that children and pregnant women might be getting too much fluoride from various sources, such as treated water, toothpaste, and mouthwash, leading to overexposure.
The report's findings are based on studies from countries including Canada, China, and Mexico, where fluoride levels in drinking water exceed 1.5 mg/L, much higher than the U.S. recommendation of 0.7 mg/L. While the report doesn't specify how many IQ points might be lost, it suggests that children exposed to higher levels of fluoride could have IQs 2 to 5 points lower than those with lower exposure.
This new evidence has raised concerns about the safety of current fluoride levels in drinking water. Experts believe more research is needed to determine whether new regulations should be implemented to reduce fluoride exposure and protect children's brain development. The American Dental Association, which supports water fluoridation, is reviewing the report's findings.
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