Glossary: Flourine

Flourine

Also known as: Flouride

What is it?

Fluorine is a nonmetallic MICROMINERAL that activates certain enzymes in the body and suppresses others. It is present in micro amounts in all body tissue, with the greatest concentrations being in the bones, teeth and vital organs. Is fluorine an essential NUTRIENT? Some say yes; others no. Although you've been told otherwise, fluorine, especially its ionized (salt) form, does not prevent dental caries (cavities). Politics has resulted in fluoridated drinking water. Read about fluorides in drinking water here.

Fluorides are readily absorbed by the body and they can also be toxic. Too much fluoride can mottle the teeth and heavy doses of it can be fatal. Good sources of fluorine and fluoride: organ meats, gelatin, saltwater fish and shellfish and of all things tea.

1997 ADEQUATE INTAKE FOR FLUORIDE
babies: birth to 6 months 6 months to 12 months	0.01 mg per day 0.5 mg per day
children: 1 to 3 years 4 to 8 years 9 to 13 years	0.7 mg per day 1.1 mg per day 2.0 mg per day
male adults: 14 to 18 years 19+ years	3.2 mg per day 3.8 mg per day
female adults: 14 to 18 years 19+ years	2.9 mg per day 3.1 mg per day
pregnant women: 18 years or less 19 to 50 years	2.9 mg per day 3.1 mg per day
nursing women: 18 years or less 19 to 50 years	2.9 mg per day 3.1 mg per day