Fluoride

The ionised (salt) form of fluorine gas. Fluorine is absorbed in the intestines, transported in the blood stream, stored in teeth and bones. Fluorine increases the bioavailability of calcium and helps to buffer acids present in the mouth. Helps prevent dental caries in children; interferes with the growth and development of bacteria that causes dental plaque. Used with calcium and vitamin D to treat osteoporosis.

FOOD SOURCES

Apples, meat, liver, kidneys, cheese, seafood, eggs, seaweed, tea.

SUPPLEMENTATION

Sodium fluoride. Present in many toothpastes and may be controversially added to water supplies (see Toxicity).

SIGNS OF DEFICIENCY

Excessive tooth decay, osteoporosis. Excess calcium, aluminum and fat in the diet can reduce fluorine absorption.

SIGNS OF TOXICITY

Stomach cramps, pain, faintness, vomiting, diarrhea, black stools, shallow breathing, tremors, increased saliva. Chronic exposure: deformed teeth and bones, anorexia, constipation, loss of calcium (bone pain, leg cramps), teeth with brown, black or white discolouration, nausea, skin rash, mouth sores, stiff joints, weight loss, osteomalacia. Also, general oxidative damage (aging), disruption of the body's ability to use vitamins, increased calcification of tendons and ligaments, damage to reproductive organs, adrenal glands, CNS, brain, kidneys, heart.

DAILY MINIMUM REQUIREMENT

3mg approx.