"Trying to Prevent Cavities May Lower IQ"... US FDA Issues Strong Warning on This Product

Recommendation to Restrict Use of Oral Fluoride Supplements for Children
FDA Warns of Potential Risks to Gut Microbiota and Brain Development

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced new restrictions on the use of oral fluoride supplements for children. This decision comes amid emerging concerns about potential new side effects, including disruption of gut microbiota, weight gain, and cognitive decline.

Photo of a child receiving dental treatment. This photo is unrelated to the article. Pixabay

According to reports from AP and the UK’s Daily Mail on November 1 (local time), the FDA stated that it does not recommend fluoride supplements for children under the age of three or for children who are not at high risk of cavities.

The FDA explained, "Fluoride, which kills bacteria on the surface of teeth, can also affect beneficial gut bacteria in a similar way to how it suppresses oral bacteria. This could pose potential risks to the overall health of developing infants." The agency added, "Several studies have linked fluoride exposure to thyroid dysfunction, weight gain, and reduced intelligence quotient (IQ) in children."

The FDA has sent warning letters to four pharmaceutical companies that manufacture these products, cautioning them of sanctions if they violate the new standards. The agency further emphasized, "Products that exceed the restricted standards must be labeled for use only in children at high risk of cavities or with poor dental hygiene."

Through its newly released scientific analysis, the FDA stated, "The tooth-strengthening benefits of oral fluoride are limited, and negative effects on gut health and cognitive function may occur."

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services, took a firm stance, saying, "This measure puts an end to outdated science and will protect children from the dangers of fluoride." Kennedy, a former environmental lawyer, has described fluoride as "industrial waste" and a "neurotoxin," and has advocated for ending water fluoridation policies.

In contrast, the American Dental Association (ADA) immediately objected. The ADA argued, "There is no scientific evidence that fluoride within recommended levels harms the human body," and claimed that reducing fluoride use could actually cause a sharp increase in cavity rates.

The FDA added that this measure does not affect toothpaste, mouthwash, fluoride treatments for adults, or professionally applied fluoride varnishes, which can continue to be used as before.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.