Fluoride...the word is one we've all heard and come to take for granted as being a good thing. But is it?

Back in the thirties and forties, studies were done that revealed that children living in communities with optimal fluoride levels in their drinking supply, had significantly fewer cavities. Bear in mind, all water has some fluoride in it. How much is optimal? Those studies indicated , according to a U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services study entitled Review of Fluoride (1991), that "about one part fluoride to one million parts water" offered sufficient protection against tooth decay. In 1945, Grand Rapids, Michigan became the first city in the nation to adjust the fluoride levels in the community's water supply. As more towns and cities across the country made the decision to adjust their own supplies, fluoride just became a "given" and no longer something people even bothered to question. It's interesting to note that the levels to which fluoride is adjusted can differ from community to community and are determined by climate as well. In warmer locations, where people tend to drink more water, the level is reduced.

Ed Daigle was clear about his concerns. His own studies indicated that the use of fluoride could also cause some bone decay, thyroid problems and even memory loss. After reviewing abundant materials, he decided to stop drinking from the local water supply. He presented his findings to the Brevard City Council, who then reviewed information representing both the pros and cons of the fluoridation issue. One member, Mack McKellar, believed that fluoride was "a medicine and unless here is a 100 percent conclusive directive from a government agency to put it in the water, I think everybody needs to have a choice if they want to consume it." He continued, "Otherwise, we're paying money to administer medicine to people without their permission." His concerns were quoted by Jonathan Rich, a reporter for the neighboring Hendersonville Times-News.

Although other Council members differed slightly in their opinions, the decision was finally reached that the fluoridation process would be discontinued. The town apparently has about a one month fluoridated water supply which will be used up before the cessation of the process occurs. In addition to putting the decision about what we consume back into the hands and mouths of consumers, the town stands to save about $5000. annually. The savings would, of course, be bigger if the town were bigger. We're just a small town of about 5500 folks who are taking a big stand on an issue that has been virtually unchallenged for a long time.

Learn more about this author, Judith Kadden.
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