What foods contain a lot of fluoride? Where and in what quantity is fluoride contained? Daily fluoride intake for children

At the end of the 19th century, chemists from France were able not only to isolate fluorine, but also to determine that it is an important element that ensures proper mineral metabolism and performs basic functions in the human body. The amount of fluoride in the human body determines the functions of bone tissue and their condition, the formation of the skeleton, the health of tooth enamel, hair and nails.

The combination of fluoride with calcium and phosphorus helps prevent caries. Penetrating into the cracks of teeth, it is able to smooth out irregularities. Fluorine is capable of removing radionuclides from the human body.

What foods contain fluoride?

The product's name	Amount of fluoride per 100 g (mg)	%DV per 200g serving
Black tea
Gyokuro green tea
Green tea
White tea
Mackerel
Smoked tuna
Fresh tuna
Mineral water
Mineral water Borjomi
Hake fish
Pollock fish
Cod
Blue whiting fish
Walnut
Haddock fish
Horse mackerel
Flounder
Rudd fish
Lenonema fish
Sea bream
Bluefish fish
Mackerel
Belorybitsa
Salmon
Trout
Crayfish
Scallop
White-eye fish
Cupid fish
Spicy salted sprat
Oyster
Smelt
Red eye fish
Bream
Lethrin fish
Mullet
Mutton
Pork
Chicken's meat
Chicken egg)
Buckwheat
Semolina
Milk
Potato
Pasta
Beef
Milk (powdered)
Pecan
Radish
Carrot

Daily requirement

Basically, the human body weighing up to 70 kg has 2.6 g of fluoride. The amount of fluoride per day for the human body is determined by many different factors (weight, age, energy costs). An adult needs 1.5 - 2 mg per day, a child - 1 mg, women who are pregnant - 2 mg, people who have constant stress on the body - 2 mg.

In a child (up to seventeen years of age), bone tissue is formed. The required amount of fluoride (per day) for a child is 0.5-1 mg. This amount is necessary to carry out the reactions that are caused by this substance. If the dose of fluoride per kg of food is 10 mg, then this amount can lead to the destruction of bone tissue; if more than 5 mg, then fluorosis appears. Fluorosis is the destruction of tooth enamel, which leads to the appearance of brown spots. A high dose of fluoride (over 3 mg) can cause poisoning. If water contains about 5 mg of fluoride per liter, it causes cancer. The lethal dose of fluoride is 5 g.

The role of fluoride in the body

Fluoride helps the normal formation of bone tissue and skeletal bones. Strengthens the immune system and ensures healthy hair and nail plate. Fluoride can protect teeth from caries and periodontal disease.

Fluorine is one of the most important elements that performs many functions in the human body.

Fluoride deficiency has many symptoms that lead to various diseases.

Symptoms of fluoride deficiency:

fragility and hair loss, split ends of hair;
tooth sensitivity. The enamel may be subject to destruction, which is followed by the appearance of erosions and necrosis;
osteoporosis (especially in older people). Frequent cases of bone fractures and slow healing.

Fluoride is well absorbed through drinking water. One way to eliminate fluoride deficiency is to drink drinking water or take fluoride-containing medications prescribed by specialists. Today there are a lot of such drugs, but you should be careful when taking them. It is imperative to consult a doctor.

Excess fluoride

Excess fluoride can happen due to high content fluoride in the water a person drinks. When taking medications containing fluoride, you also need to be careful, this can be one of the reasons for an overdose. Overdose symptoms may not appear immediately. If any symptom appears, you should definitely consult a doctor. Failure to consult a doctor in a timely manner can lead to long and difficult treatment.

Symptoms of excess fluoride:

nausea and vomiting;
loss and decrease in voice;
tearing eyes;
trembling fingers and rapid fatigue;
diarrhea and severe abdominal pain;
irritation and rashes on the skin;
bleeding gums;
pneumonia, bradycardia, osteoporosis.

Fluoride has toxic properties if consumed in amounts up to 20 mg. In order to eliminate excess fluoride, it is necessary to consume large amounts of water and take calcium. If fluoride poisoning occurs, it is imperative to induce vomiting and rinse the stomach.

In order to provide the human body with the necessary amount of fluoride, you need to take foods that contain it. Fluoride is included in such food products as: walnuts, beef, green and black tea, milk, potatoes, onions, seafood, vegetables and fruits.

If fluoride is taken with medications that contain aluminum and magnesium, then it is very difficult to absorb in the body. If fluoride is taken together with vitamin D and A, this can lead to the formation of calcifications. Calcifications are hard formations on the bones. Iron absorption improves if taken along with fluoride. if you accept medications that contain iodine, it is better to limit the amount of fluoride taken.

Fluoride is an important trace element that prevents various diseases. The main function of fluoride is the proper formation of bones and skeleton. It is especially important to take it in childhood, since it is at this age that the formation of the skeleton occurs. Fluorine is a rather capricious substance. If there is a shortage of it, the body suffers, but an overdose can lead to the worst consequences. It is strictly forbidden to allow an excess of fluoride, otherwise it can act as a toxic element. A person’s growth, metabolism and cell renewal may slow down, and caries will appear. Fatigue and drowsiness will occur. Therefore, the intake of this element must be strictly regulated.

Fluorine is a poisonous gas that is essential for human functioning. First of all, fluoride is beneficial for teeth and bones, as it strengthens tooth enamel and promotes bone growth and development.

Basic properties of fluorine

Fluorine itself is a gas with a very strong and unpleasant odor. In small quantities, the smell of the element resembles a mixture of ozone and chlorine.

At extremely low temperatures (from minus 188 to minus 288), the substance becomes liquid or solid. In the liquid state, fluorine is yellowish in color, in the gaseous state it is colorless, and in the solid state it is greenish-yellow.

The substance is a very powerful oxidizing agent and the lightest substance among the halogens.

The substance boils and melts at incredibly low temperatures (-188 and -219 degrees Celsius).

The structure of fluorine can be described as follows: a diatomic molecule of the substance includes 4 bonding orbitals along with three antibonding orbitals. The bond order in a molecule is equal to one.

If you study the composition of fluorine, you can come to the conclusion that the substance is monoisotopic, because on Earth there is only one stable isotope of fluorine (F19). Science also knows 17 radioactive isotopes of the element and 1 nuclear isomer (F18).

Benefits of fluoride for the human body

The body of an adult contains 2.5-3 g of fluoride. The biological role of fluorine for humans is significant, since most of microelement is concentrated in tooth enamel and bone tissue. Fluoride is excreted mostly through the kidneys.

Calcium and magnesium interfere with the absorption of fluoride. The element itself impairs the absorption of iodine and accelerates the absorption of iron.

The main functions of fluoride in the body:

Fluoride is especially useful for teeth and bones: together with calcium and phosphorus, it forms and strengthens bones, tooth enamel, accelerates bone recovery in case of fractures;
participates in a lot of biochemical reactions;
promotes the growth and health of nails and hair;
helps blood cells form, mature and develop;
strengthens the immune system and maintains human health;
removes radionuclides and heavy metals from the body;
protects against caries by reducing the activity of acid-forming bacteria;
reduces the risk of periodontal disease.

Daily dose of fluoride

A person’s need for an element should be determined by the attending physician. On average, a person needs 1.5 – 5 mg of the substance daily.

An increase in the body's need for fluoride can occur due to metabolic disorders in tooth enamel and bones.

Large doses of fluoride (more than 20 mg) poison the body, and if the dose exceeds 2 g, then the person will not survive.

Excess and deficiency of fluoride: symptoms

Typically, fluoride deficiency causes problems with teeth, skin and bones. Thus, with a lack of fluoride in the body, osteoporosis develops (characterized by weak bones), hair begins to fall out, and nails become brittle. The element for teeth is of particular importance. If there is insufficient fluoride in the body, caries develops (tooth enamel becomes thinner and may crumble or chip).

It is important to know that with a lack of fluoride, osteoporosis develops first, and caries and extensive hair loss will not be long in coming.

You can compensate for the lack of an element by consuming fluoridated water and foods, dietary supplements and preparations with this element. To treat caries, fluoride tooth varnish, fluoride toothpastes, and sodium fluoride tablets can be used.

The main reasons for element deficiency:

permanent residence in those regions of the country where there is little fluoride in the soil, food and water;
violation of fluoride metabolism in the body.

At that time, excess fluoride can be recognized by a variety of symptoms:

impaired functioning of the central nervous system;
kidney pathologies;
pulmonary edema;
pneumonia;
violation of the shape of the skeleton;
convulsions;
metabolic disorder;
osteoporosis, calcification (primarily ligaments and tendons);
heart problems;
skin irritation;
painful sensations in the abdomen;
dental problems (fragility, fluorosis, bleeding gums);
nausea, vomiting;
loose stools;
tearfulness;
feeling of severe weakness, loss of strength;
voice problems;
iron deficiency;
low pressure.

Due to the large amount of the element, calcium accumulates in the body: growths appear on the bones, which leads to deformation of the skeleton and limbs. Also, with an excess of the element, aluminum begins to accumulate, which negatively affects the human central nervous system: the appearance of mental disorders and tremors of the limbs.

A long-term overdose of the element (ten years or more) slowly leads to fluorosis of the entire skeleton. Its signs:

joint pain;
joint mobility disorders;
violation of the shape of ligaments, tendons;
the appearance of bone spurs;
progressive muscle weakness;
immobility;
neurological diseases.

Large dosages of the substance can lead to death or poisoning of the body.

Excess fluoride occurs most often due to increased concentrations of the microelement in water. This occurs in cases where a person constantly drinks fluoride-saturated water and cooks food with it.

Fluoride is often found in toothpaste. Of course, fluoride strengthens enamel, but at the same time it can harm it. You should know that if you use such toothpastes for a long time without breaks, fluoride accumulates in large quantities in the body, which, on the contrary, leads to diseases of the teeth and oral cavity, and the enamel will begin to deteriorate.

Excess fluoride will also not benefit children. An overdose of a substance is especially dangerous during growth and development of the skeleton, therefore it is very important to give the child only purified water or at least (if possible) know its composition.

The optimal fluoride content in water is 1.5 mg per liter of liquid. When drinking water with a higher concentration of fluoride, a person may notice the first signs of its excess in the body:

increased breathing;
decreased blood pressure;
dizziness;
cramps of the arms and legs;
kidney problems.
It is necessary to stop taking fluoride-containing foods, drinks, medications, use of fluoridated toothpastes, and start taking enterosorbents and symptomatic medications.
Acute fluoride poisoning requires hospitalization.

Also, excess fluoride occurs due to poisoning at work, with long-term use of drugs containing it, or due to a violation of the internal metabolism of the substance.

To normalize the level of fluoride in the body, it is necessary to stop consuming foods, drinks, medications with fluoride, as well as toothpastes and mouthwashes containing this substance. You should urgently start taking enterosorbents and symptomatic medications. If fluoride poisoning is acute, you should immediately go to the hospital for admission.

Products with fluoride

At the moment, the fluorine content in water is such that most of the element enters the body from liquids (about 70-80% of the daily norm).

Fluorine is also found in products of plant origin:

leafy vegetables, spinach;
fruits: apples, grapefruit;
grain crops;
rice;
vegetables: potatoes, onions;
any nuts;
drinks: tea, wine.

Fluoride is contained in foods of animal origin:

seafood;
chicken meat;
eggs;
dairy products;
meat and offal.

Popular fluoride preparations

There are many tablets and gels that contain fluoride as part of the drug. They are prescribed by doctors and sold strictly by prescription. Using them yourself is dangerous for life. They are usually used to combat caries and improve the condition of the oral cavity and teeth.

The following drugs are often used:

"Sodium fluoride." Release form: powder or crystals. The product is used for osteoporosis and childhood caries. Taking sodium fluoride should be accompanied by eating foods rich in calcium and magnesium. Prescribing the drug is impossible without preliminary analysis blood to determine the ratio of minerals in the body. Only in this case can you be sure that the remedy will bring benefit to the patient and not harm.
"Natrium fluoratum" - lozenges (1 mg). This is the same sodium fluoride. Aimed at replenishing fluoride deficiency, treating caries, and improving bone condition. Promotes the maturation of enamel and its strengthening. The drug is prescribed for osteoporosis, osteopathy, and for the prevention of caries. Contraindicated in pregnancy, breastfeeding, children under six months, three years, 6 and 14 years (depending on the dosage of the drug and its dosage form).
"Coreberon". Available in the form of dragees and film-coated tablets (20 mg). Another analogue of sodium fluoride.
"Vitaftor". The drug contains sodium fluoride, retinol (vitamin A), vitamin D, ascorbic acid, sorbitol and some other substances. Release form: liquid. It is used for the prevention and treatment of caries and to improve the formation of enamel of permanent teeth. Typically, the drug is prescribed to children who live in areas where the fluoride content in water is below normal (less than 0.5 mg per 1 liter of water). Vitaftor can be used in children from 1 year of age.
"ACT". Mouth rinse solution. Contains sodium fluoride. Used to prevent caries in children and adults.
Fluoride varnish is a special gel that is applied to tooth enamel. It is used for preventive purposes to prevent periodontal disease and caries. Before using the gel, the teeth are cleaned (hygienic cleaning). The drug forms a special film on the surface of the teeth, protecting them from harmful bacteria, strengthening the gums and increasing the stability of fillings. The product can be purchased without a prescription at a regular pharmacy, but dentists recommend not to use it yourself to avoid overdose.

All of the above remedies should not be taken without a doctor’s permission.

Fluoride in toothpaste

The benefits of fluoride in toothpaste for hygienic cleaning of teeth are undeniable. It is this substance that provides its anti-caries effect. It is not harmful when used topically (that is, during regular brushing of teeth), and it strengthens enamel well due to increased resistance to acids. Fluorine in toothpaste can be harmful in the following cases:

with constant use of paste containing fluorine in high concentrations (more than 1000 ppm);
if the paste is swallowed during brushing.

prophylactic (fluorine content – up to 1000 ppm) – suitable for daily use, do not pose a danger during long-term use: for example, “Splat Active”, “Splat Arktikum”, “Splat Siberry”;
anti-caries (fluoride content - more than 1000 ppm) - aimed at intensively strengthening the enamel at the first signs of caries; not suitable for long-term use (most of the pastes from Lacalut and Paradontax are like this - fluorine content is 1400 ppm).

It is worth knowing which toothpaste without fluoride can benefit your teeth. Today, many toothpaste manufacturers produce lines both with and without this element. The most popular fluoride-free toothpastes are:

"BioRepair Total Protection Plus" is an Italian toothpaste without foaming agents, parabens, antiseptics and fluoride. Contains zinc to strengthen teeth.
"ROCS: Jasmine Flower." Produced in Russia. Low degree of abrasiveness (will not damage enamel), without fluoride, antiseptics and parabens. Contains calcium, magnesium, xylitol to strengthen teeth and bromelain to break down plaque.
"ROCS: Bionics". The lowest degree of abrasiveness, therefore harmless to enamel. Without antiseptics, foaming agents, fluoride, parabens. Contains herbal extracts (licorice, thyme, kelp), calcium and magnesium.
“ROCS Maximum Freshness”, “ROCS Caribbean Summer”, “ROCS Citrus Jazz”, “ROCS Morning Energy”, “ROCS Taste of Delight”, “ROCS Forest Afternoon”. The abrasiveness is at the normal level, but slightly higher than that of the above types of this paste. The composition does not contain fluoride or antiseptics; it contains xylitol, calcium, magnesium and bromelain.
"President of Unique" Italian pasta without fluoride. No foaming agents, fluoride. Contains calcium and xylitol.
“Splat Ultracomplex”, “Biocalcium”, “Maximum”. Contains hydroxyapatite, papain (to break down plaque). Does not contain antiseptics or fluoride.
"Splat Aromatherapy", "Green Tea", "Magnolia". Contains extracts from plants. Does not contain fluoride or antiseptics.
"Paradontax without fluoride." British pasta popular in Russia. Low degree of abrasiveness. Free from foaming agents, parabens, antiseptics and fluoride. Contains large amounts of sodium bicarbonate and plant extracts.

The list of toothpastes containing this microelement is simply huge (the most common ones are listed below):

“Ivorin total” (“Avanta”). Contains triclosan for antimicrobial action, fluoride and calcium to strengthen enamel, pyrophosphates to protect against tartar, natural essential oils for fresh breath.
“Ivorine healing herbs” (“Avanta”). Contains herbal extracts for wound healing, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects and natural essential oils for fresh breath. Used to prevent caries and periodonitis.
"Albadent Stone-control ®" ("Vita Firm"). The action of the paste is aimed at gentle cleaning of teeth, anti-inflammatory effect and prevention of caries.
Amway. Contains herbal extracts. Prevention of caries and gum disease.
"Aquafresh" Provides prevention of caries and periodontal diseases.
"Aquaftem" (Faberlic). Improves local metabolism, is effective against inflammation, for minor wounds in the oral cavity, and prevents the occurrence of caries.
"Biodent Herbal" ("LEK kozmetica"). Main components: sodium monofluorophosphate, extracts of chamomile, sage, lemon balm, rosemary. The paste is intended for the prevention of caries and inflammatory diseases oral cavity.
Blend-A-med Complete (Procter & Gamble). Prevention of caries, periodonitis, effective cleansing.
"Glister" ("Amway"). Contains calcium and fluoride to prevent caries, vitamins in the composition reduce bleeding and inflammation of the gums.
“Pearls for the whole family” (“Nevskaya Cosmetics”). A popular cheap paste with calcium and fluoride, the action of which is aimed at strengthening the enamel.
“Cedar balm with fluoride” (“Modum”). Contains essential oils and herbal extracts, has bactericidal, wound-healing properties, strengthens enamel.
"Colgate Total" ("Colgate - Palmolive"). Complex impact.
"Lacalut aktiv" ("ARCAM GmbH"). Complex effect. Heals wounds, has an antimicrobial effect, wound healing, prevents caries and periodonitis.
Lacalut fluor (ARCAM GmbH). Slows down the process of darkening of enamel, mineralizes and protects teeth, restores the natural whiteness of teeth with long-term use. Prevents the occurrence of caries and other diseases oral cavity.
“New pearls eucalyptus” (“Nevskaya cosmetics”). Contains eucalyptus extract, which has an anti-inflammatory, wound-healing effect.
“New pearls total” (“Nevskaya cosmetics”). Complex effect. Protects teeth from coloring pigments.
“New pearls extra” (“Nevskaya cosmetics”). Strengthens local immunity.
“New pearl complex” (“Nevskaya cosmetics”). Freshens breath, cleans teeth well, has a complex effect.
“New Pearl Multivitamins” (“Nevskaya Cosmetics”). The vitamins in the composition accelerate metabolism, the calcium and sodium in the composition remineralize the enamel.
“New pearl soda bicarbonate” (“Nevskaya Cosmetics”). Restores the acid-base balance, preserves the whiteness of teeth.
"Optifresh" (Oriflame). Contains iron, calcium, zinc, fluorine, which together strengthen tooth enamel.
Paradontax. Effective paste for gingivitis and periodontal diseases. Effectively stops bleeding, inflammation, and has an antimicrobial effect.
"PresiDENT Activ". A popular paste for the prevention of caries, oral and periodontal diseases.
"PresiDENT Classic". A popular paste for the prevention of caries, oral and periodontal diseases. Contains herbal extracts.
"PresiDENT Exclusive". A popular paste for the prevention of caries, oral and periodontal diseases. Contains herbal extracts and propolis.
"SPLAT asset" Effectively fights inflammation and bleeding. Restores teeth whiteness and prevents plaque.
"SPLAT special sea minerals". Beneficial effect on enamel and gums.

What is it best pasta with fluoride? When choosing this hygiene product, you need to pay attention to the composition. It is advisable that the paste for daily use meets the following requirements.

The level of abrasiveness is no more than 80 RDA. High abrasiveness is suitable for infrequent use for teeth whitening and tartar prevention.
Lack of antiseptics - chlorhexedine, triclosan. The use of pastes with such components is necessary only for the treatment of gums.
Moderate fluorine content (no more than 1000 ppm). A high concentration of fluorides is useful for short-term use and is found in anti-caries pastes. For healthy teeth, the concentration should be lower.

Fluoride-free baby toothpastes:

"PRESIDENT Baby" Suitable for children from birth to three years. Contains calcium, xylitol, chamomile extract, retinol and propolis. Does not contain sugar. Low degree of abrasiveness (25 RDA).
PRESIDENT Kids Strawberry (from 3 to 6 years). Contains 3 effective forms of calcium to strengthen teeth, xylitol, vitamin E and aloe extract. Suitable for children who do not develop too many caries.
“SPLAT Baby” is a paste for children from birth to three years. Contains aloe extract, licorice, lactic enzymes (to increase local immunity), calcium (to strengthen teeth).
“SPLAT Kids strawberry-cherry” (from 2 to 6 years). Contains lactic enzymes (to strengthen local immunity), aloe, arginine and licorice extract. Does not contain harmful substances and allergens. An effective paste for frequent stomatitis, oral thrush, and teething.
"ROCS Baby" The line of children's toothpastes is suitable for children from 0 to 3 years. Contains xylitol (to neutralize harmful acids), chamomile extract, alginate (for an anti-inflammatory effect when teeth appear). The downside of toothpaste is its low abrasiveness (plaque will be difficult to remove).
"ROCS PRO Baby". For children from 0 to 3 years old. Has very good composition: includes xylitol, calcium, honeysuckle extract. The disadvantage of the paste is its low abrasiveness and high price.
"ROCS PRO Kids Wild berries." Suitable for children from 3 to 7 years old. Contains honeysuckle extract, xylitol and calcium in high concentration. Suitable for children with good teeth.

Children's pastes with fluoride:

Colgate ELMEX. Designed for children from 6 months to 6 years. It contains a high-quality form of fluoride - aminofluoride in a concentration of 500 ppm, recommended by the European Academy of Dentistry. The paste is aimed at strengthening immature children's enamel. This form of fluoride is activated faster inside the mouth, and this is a definite plus, since children do not brush their teeth for as long as adults.
“Lacalut Baby” - contains amino fluoride (250) ppm and vitamin E. Suitable for children from birth to two years. Aminofluoride is capable of forming a film on the teeth, through which fluoride penetrates into the tooth enamel for a couple of hours after brushing, thereby strengthening it.
"ROCS Kids Berry Fantasy." For children from 4 to 7 years old. Fluoride concentration - 500 High concentrations contain xylitol and amino fluoride, which makes the paste effective in the fight against caries. It can only be recommended for use up to 6 years of age, since permanent teeth then begin to erupt, and the concentration of fluoride should be at least 2 times higher.
“LACALUT Kids 4+” (from 4 to 8 years) – similar to the “ROCS Kids Berry Fantasy” paste.

When choosing children's toothpaste, it is necessary to take into account the concentration of fluoride in the water in the area where you live. If the content of the element is exceeded, the use of fluoride-containing pastes is impractical and can lead to serious health problems not only for the child, but also for the adult.

Fluoride is considered an essential element for the body. Without it, normal tissue formation of bones and teeth is impossible.

However, the attitude of scientists towards this substance is very ambiguous. In Belgium, the production of chewing gum and dental refreshing tablets containing fluoride is prohibited.

This is due to an increase in the number of cases of osteoporosis and nervous diseases among people who take large doses of fluoride. A trace element can have positive influence per person, but can also become a strong poison.

What foods contain a lot of fluoride, where is it most, is it good for teeth, and can this element harm our body? The answers to all these questions are in our article.

Effect on the body, benefits and harms

The chemical element fluorine (F) was discovered in the early 19th century. Translated from Greek, the name means “destruction”, as under normal conditions it is a poisonous gas with a pungent odor.

In nature, the element is found in soils, earth's crust, water. The foods richest in fluoride are lentils and onions.

In industry, gas is used for the production of freon, fluoroplastic, and fluorides. For humans, fluoride is necessary, but in an amount not exceeding 3.5 mg per day.

Microelement functions:

strengthening tooth enamel;
formation of strong bone tissue;
participation in many biochemical processes;
stimulation of the hematopoietic process;
strengthening immunity;
removal of heavy metal salts from the body;
preventing the development of osteoporosis;
suppression of the activity of acid-forming bacteria.

These properties of the substance have found its use in toothpaste and medicines. Element - active substance the following drugs:

Perfluorodecalin is a blood substitute.
Ftorotan is a means for endotracheal anesthesia.
Fluorouracil is an antitumor drug.
Fluoxetine is a well-known antidepressant.
Haloperidol is a drug used to treat mental disorders.

Some countries use water fluoridation to prevent tooth decay. Fluoride also enhances the absorption of iron, so when one element is deficient, caries and iron deficiency anemia simultaneously develop.

Daily requirement for the substance:

Children - 2-4 mg.
Adults - 1-1.5 mg.
Pregnant women - up to 4 mg.

The maximum allowable amount is 10 mg, large dosages have a negative effect.

If more than 20 g enters the body, death occurs.

Symptoms of element deficiency:

brittle nails and hair;
development of caries;
bone fragility, osteoporosis.

An excess of F is no less harmful. The main consequence of excess consumption is fluorosis - a non-carious lesion of tooth enamel.

Large dosages of the element negatively affect the condition of bones, the endocrine system, and blood vessels. Children are especially vulnerable.

Signs of excess substance:

Severe weakness.
Tearing.
Epigastric pain.
Diarrhea.
Skin itching, rashes.
Darkening of tooth enamel.
Muscle cramps.
Bleeding from the gums.

Negative consequences:

osteoporosis;
fluorosis;
slow heart rate;
pressure drop;
bone deformation;
impaired renal function;
pulmonary edema;
damage to the central nervous system.

There is a version that long-term consumption of fluoridated water or large amounts of tea can lead to infertility and cancer.

Where is it located, where is it most: list of sources in the table

Leaders among products in fluoride content- fish, seafood, beets, black tea.

When brewing tea, most of the substance “migrates” into the water, so to meet the daily requirement, it is enough to drink a couple of mugs of a freshly brewed drink.

Products containing fluoride in large quantities are shown in the table:

It is very difficult to reach the maximum concentration of a substance using food.

A large amount of fluorine is contained in mineral waters from sources located in areas with fluoride-containing soil: Moscow, Tver, Nizhny Novgorod regions.

What can and cannot be combined with

Fluorine reacts chemically with calcium, magnesium, and aluminum ions. For this reason, these elements should not be taken at the same time. That is, magnesium preparations inhibit the absorption of F.

Negative consequences are observed when consuming F and vitamins A and D. With this combination, calcifications are formed - bone growths.

Fluoride slows down the absorption of iodine. Doctors recommend avoiding the use of fluoride toothpaste and sodium fluoride while taking iodine-containing medications.

But with iron the substance forms a positive “tandem”. Both elements enhance each other's effect.

Therefore, fluoride is present in iron preparations - this is how a therapeutic effect is achieved in the treatment of iron deficiency anemia.

alternate fluoridated toothpaste with regular one;
When brushing your teeth, do not swallow the toothpaste;
drink no more than a glass of mineral water with F;
do not combine iodine preparations and fluorides;
drink no more than 3 glasses of tea per day;
residents of areas where the soil contains a lot of fluoride should drink bottled water;
do not store food or water in plastic containers, as they contain fluoroplastic;
at long-term use Do fluoxetine, haloperidol regularly biochemical analysis blood to control the level of the element in the body.

Several Yet interesting facts about the dangers of fluoride in this video:

Fluoride is an element essential for health. But a large amount of the substance turns out to be destructive and can lead to death.

Long-term consumption of water with F is also undesirable, as it provokes the development urolithiasis and even cancer.

A person can easily obtain the required amount of an element per day from food, so he does not need to take additional medications with this microelement.

In contact with

Fluorine (F) is widely known in the forms of calcium fluoride, stannous fluoride, sodium monofluorophosphate, sodium fluoride. It is one of the most active elements of the halogen group, which also includes chlorine and iodine. It does not occur in nature as a simple substance, and a liter of natural water contains from 3 to 12 mg of fluoride. In the human body it is also present in combinations with other components.

Functions of fluoride in the body

Fluoride is present in almost all tissues of the human body, but the highest concentration of the substance (almost 96 percent) is found in teeth and bones. Fluorides entering the body with food are completely ionized and quickly absorbed, distributed between cells.
The substance is absorbed in the intestines and transported throughout the body with the bloodstream. Quite quickly eliminated from the body in urine. Fluoride increases the bioavailability of calcium and reduces the aggressiveness of acids in the oral cavity. Necessary for normal bone mineralization and formation of tooth enamel. Fluoride and calcium are closely related within the human body and work primarily in tandem, often in the outer parts of the bones.

Fluoride deficiency and overdose

The generally accepted daily dose of F for an adult is 1.5-2 mg (slightly more for osteoporosis). Insufficient consumption of this microelement causes caries, impairs vision, and increases the body's vulnerability to infections.
Consequences of chronic F deficiency:

tooth decay;
rachiocampsis;
blurred vision.

Fluoride overdose, although rare, does occur. In case of mineral poisoning, it is important to drink a lot of water (more than 2 liters per day) and take calcium gluconate (promotes faster removal of fluoride from the body). Laxatives containing sodium sulfate provide a quick effect for cleansing of excess trace elements. Teeth enamel whitening will help get rid of fluorosis.

Food sources

By the way, it is interesting that fluorine has the ability to “migrate” into water, which is especially useful for decoctions and teas. For example, when black tea is brewed, approximately 70-90 percent of the fluoride passes from the leaves into the liquid. Approximately 30% of the mineral contained in mint is released, approximately 20 percent is released from rose hips, and chamomile provides only 5% of the useful microelement.

Table of fluoride content in some products

Product (200 g)	Fluoride (mg)
(black, green, white)	20
Mackerel	3
Tuna	2
Mineral water	1,5
Hake	1,4
Pollock	1,4
Cod	1,4
Blue whiting	1,4
Walnuts	1,3
Horse mackerel	1
Flounder	0,9
Sea bream	0,86
Mackerel	0,86
Salmon	0,86
Trout	0,86
Cancer	0,86
Scallops	0,86
Oysters	0,86
Mullet	0,86
Lamb meat	0,3
Pork	0,3
Bird	0,28
Chicken eggs	0,18
Buckwheat	0,1
Semolina	0,1
Milk	0,1
Potato	0,1
Pasta	0,1
Beef meat	0,032
Radish	0,012
Carrot	0,006

Top 10 products necessary for children

There is no need to remind children about the importance of fluoride. A growing body, like no other, needs this microelement to form healthy bones and teeth, strengthen enamel and prevent dental diseases.

Fluoride deficiency, like calcium, is fraught with serious problems in the development of children: from curvatures in the spine to loss of vision.

But this does not mean that the child early years it is necessary to feed with dietary supplements containing F. Nutrient sources for children should be only natural products. An excess of the mineral is also not the most pleasant thing that can happen to a person. Consumption of more than 0.5 mg of fluoride per 1 kg of a child’s weight causes fluorosis (manifested as white spots on tooth enamel). A large overdose will cause aching pain in the bones, stains on the teeth (white and brown). The same signs of fluoride poisoning can occur in adults. But they also have nodular joints, rapid aging of bone tissue, the appearance of wrinkles and the development of scleroderma (the formation of hard patches of skin).

When compiling a list of foods rich in fluoride, it is first important to remember water, which is the best source of the mineral. It is also important to enter children's diet tea, nuts, sunflower seeds, fruits and vegetables. In particular, focusing on carrots, turnips, beet tops, garlic, spinach, and leafy greens.

Best sources of fluoride for children:

Tea. This product can be introduced into the diet of children from a relatively early age.
Pickles. Pickle, added to the salad, will provide the child with a significant portion of fluoride.
Grape juice. This drink, beloved by many, will also take care of the required amount of F in the child’s body. Of course, we are talking exclusively about healthy juices, without preservatives and chemical additives.
Spinach. This, as well as other green leafy vegetables, will give the child strength and will serve as a source of not only fluoride, but also most of the micro- and macroelements and vitamins necessary for a growing body.
Tomatoes. All foods that contain tomatoes contain fluoride. Salad or tomato juice– exactly what children need.
Carrot. Cooked without salt, but with a little extra vegetable oil, – a nutritious side dish or salad for a snack. It is important that this orange vegetable is also a powerful source of carotene, which is responsible for visual acuity and the proper functioning of organs.
. It's hard to find a child who doesn't like this sweet and sour vitamin drink. If you don’t have a food allergy to citrus fruits, you can pamper your children with fresh orange juice at least several times a week and be sure that they get a lot of what they need. useful substances, including a well-known antioxidant and immune protector.
Asparagus. Serve whole, cut into pieces or puree. It doesn’t matter in what form, the main thing is that the child eats a portion of it healthy vegetable, rich not only in fluorine.
Beet. Borscht, salads, juices... Prepare whatever your imagination allows from this vegetable. And as often as possible. Beets are a real storehouse of vitamins and minerals that are vital for people at any age.
Prunes. It can be eaten whole, in compotes, or as an ingredient in desserts - in any case, it will benefit the body.

Important note. Children, especially at an early age (up to 2 years), are often prone to food allergies. Therefore, you should introduce any of these products into your diet slowly, carefully and in small portions. Only after the body gets used to the new food can the portions and frequency of taking a particular product be increased. Don't neglect this rule! Any product should provide benefits and not cause health problems.

Coming up with a fluoride-rich menu won’t be difficult at all. The main thing is to know which products contain this mineral and in what concentration.

All soups cooked with bones and poultry broths (meat should also have bones) are not only hearty dish, but also an extremely concentrated source of F. Although there is one caveat. If you want to be sure of the benefits of such broth, take care of the quality of the meat. And if there is no way to eat poultry, then at least buy a product from trusted manufacturers.

Of course, freshly prepared food is the tastiest and healthiest. But canned food is not always bad. Fish, for example (especially with bones) are one of the best food sources of F. But in this case, it is also important to check the quality and freshness of the product.

Categorically do not accept canned food? No problem. Fish cooked yourself is no worse. And the taste is many times better. The only rule: boil, stew, bake or fry fish, preferably with bones. This product contains many times more fluoride than fillets of the same varieties. Continuing the theme of seafood, it is worth recalling that shellfish also have a beneficial effect on the condition of bones and teeth.

Oatmeal belongs to the list of foods rich in microelements, in particular fluoride. But a small warning. Still, it’s better to give preference to ordinary “rolled oatmeal” flakes than to newfangled cereals, instant cooking, stuffed with flavor enhancers and chemical “E” additives. In this regard, lovers of sprouted grains are lucky - they get the most benefits from cereals.

Fruit and vegetable juices are among the foods rich in fluoride. But again, only freshly squeezed juices from quality products can be called healthy. Chemically grown food should not be chosen as a raw material for a vitamin drink. Such juices do more harm than good. And of course, it’s better to forget forever about the existence of drinks made from concentrates.

Toxic sources

Many people have probably heard about fluoridated water entering our homes through public water supply systems. Tap liquid usually contains an inorganic form of fluoride. And this, as doctors convince, is not the safest way to replenish mineral reserves. And even more so, you should not use such water (in the country after boiling) for preparing food for children.

High concentrations of fluoride can often be found in. But it is difficult to classify such a drink as healthy, if only for the reason that the sources of fluoride in it are the pesticide (cryolite), which was used to treat the vineyards. Cryolite (contains sodium fluoride) is used as a means against insect pests. Sometimes the concentration of F in a glass of such wine can exceed the content of the microelement in a liter of specially fluoridated water.

Choose only the right products to maintain vitamin and mineral balance, and the body will certainly thank you with good health.

Fluoride is present in all organs and tissues, but 96% of it is concentrated in bones and teeth. Together with calcium, this component ensures mineralization and strength of the skeleton, maturation and hardness of tooth enamel. The article describes which products contain the most fluoride.

The component is needed for normal hair and nail growth. Fluoride is involved in important physiological cycles, strengthens the immune system, removes heavy metals and toxins. With the help of a microelement, the vital activity of acid-forming bacteria is suppressed. Fluoride prevents the development of caries.

What's the best way to use it?

Volatile fluorine is harmful heat treatment, and tea that is brewed with boiling water is not a living product. Should be considered this feature component of interest when cooking.

It is advisable to consume the sources in their original form - raw. Do not put them in aluminum dishes, which leads to loss of fluoride. In addition, large amounts of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium complicate the absorption of fluoride.

Where is it present?

One third of the component comes from food, so foods containing fluoride are healthy. But most of it comes with water. Since the natural trace element is present in bound state, its concentration in living organisms is very small. The exceptions are tea and sea fish.

Most of the component is lost during cooking. If food is cooked in aluminum cookware, it reacts with the material and is removed from the food. It is not possible to compensate for the lack of fluoride with a monotonous diet, so doctors do not prescribe a diet, but fluoride-containing products. Which products contain the most fluoride will be discussed below.

Plant products

If there is a deficiency of a component, it is important to eat foods rich in fluoride. There are many of these components:

in cereals - bran, rice, buckwheat;
vegetables - pumpkin, potatoes, onions;
fruits;
wine, grape, tomato, orange juice;
honey;
prunes, almonds, walnuts, sunflower seeds;
spices and herbs;
pickles.

The source of fluoride in wine is believed to be a chemical sprayed onto the grapevine. Its concentration can be high.

Fluoride ions have the ability to move from the leaves into the solution, so when tea and decoctions are infused, 70-90% of it “migrates” into the water. Chamomile “gives” little of the mineral - 5%, while rosehip - 20%, mint - 30%.

Tea (100 ml) contains 10,000 mcg of fluoride, and mineral water- 800. Walnut contains 865 mcg of the component. The daily requirement of the microelement will be provided by 300 g of walnuts. Products containing fluoride are saturated with this component when consumed in moderation.

Animal products

There are also animal products containing fluoride in large quantities. It is present:

in meat;
liver;
bone broths, poultry meat, canned fish;
milk;
fish;
seafood, shellfish.

Salmon (700 g) covers daily requirement in fluorine. It is advisable to cook fish with bones, as this saturates the body big amount microelement than fillet.

Mackerel (100 g) contains 1400 mcg of fluoride, and tuna contains 1000 mcg. These are products containing fluoride and calcium. Cod, blue whiting, pollock, and hake contain 700 mcg of this component, and haddock - 500. Products containing fluoride must be present in the human diet.

Daily norm

It is difficult to establish the boundary between excess and deficiency of a component. There is very little fluoride in products, so an overdose is not dangerous.

The body of an adult weighing up to 70 kg contains about 2-3 g of fluoride. Its norm per day is 0.5-4 mg and depends on age, weight, energy consumption, region, and nutrition. For example, for children 6-9 years old, 1.1 mg is required, for adolescents 14-18 - 1.5, and after 18 years - 1.7-4.

Pregnant women and people who are engaged in physical labor require 2 mg of the mineral every day. With osteoporosis, the norm increases.

a lack of

to destruction of bone tissue;
high sensitivity of teeth;
fragility, brittleness of nails;
hair loss, split ends;
anemia;
osteoporosis;
curvature of the spine;
periodontal disease;
caries;
deterioration of vision.

Therefore, you should adhere to the measure. If there is a shortage of a component, the doctor may prescribe medications. It is important to complete the entire course of treatment.

Excess

Fluoride in food can compensate for the deficiency only with moderate consumption. But the component is poisonous if more than 20 mg is supplied. Overdose is considered dangerous. Excess results in:

to slow growth, cessation of cell division;
general weakness;
drowsiness;
nausea;
skin rash;
complete loss of voice;
convulsions;
trembling fingers;
bleeding gums;
inhibition of the activity of the kidneys, liver, and thyroid gland.

Difficulty breathing and decreased blood pressure also occur. The bones will be rough, leading to muscle and joint pain. Fluoride poisoning causes conjunctivitis, tearing, pneumonia, bronchial and skin irritation, severe abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

With an excess of fluoride, fluorosis can occur - a disease in which gray-brown spots appear on the enamel, joint deformation, and bone tissue destruction. Wrinkles and white, hard areas form on the skin. Fluorosis appears in the presence of 0.5 mg of fluoride per 1 kg of weight.

Signs of overdose appear gradually, so if you feel slightly unwell, you should visit a doctor. If medical assistance is not timely, treatment will be delayed for a long time.

To eliminate excess fluoride ions, you should eat foods rich in calcium, and also take medications (calcium gluconate), laxatives (sodium sulfate). Products containing magnesium prevent the absorption of the mineral.

If poisoning occurs with this component, induce vomiting and rinse the stomach.

Best Resources for Kids

A growing body definitely needs this component, as it is involved in the formation of healthy bones and teeth, strengthening enamel and preventing dental diseases. The lack of a component leads to developmental disorders.

But this does not mean that from an early age children should be stuffed with dietary supplements containing F. They need to be fed natural products. Excess of the component also negatively affects health. For children, the best sources of fluoride are:

Tea. It should be introduced from an early age.
Pickles. Cucumbers added to salad perfectly saturate with fluoride.
Grape juice. This favorite drink enriches with microelements. Only it must be natural juice, without preservatives and chemical substances.
Spinach. This vegetable, like other green leafy vegetables, gives strength and serves as a source of valuable vitamins.
Tomatoes. All dishes with tomatoes are rich in fluoride. Tomato juice is also beneficial.
Carrot. Made without salt, but with some vegetable oil, it is a nutritious side dish.
Orange juice. If you are not allergic to such a drink, then at least once a week you can give your child fresh citrus juice.
Asparagus. It is served whole or pureed.
Beet. You can make borscht, salads, and juices from the vegetable.
Prunes. It is added to compotes and desserts.

Children under 2 years of age are prone to food allergies. Therefore, these products must be introduced carefully and slowly. Only after getting used to it can you increase the dose.

It’s not difficult to come up with a fluoride-rich menu. You just need to know which products contain it. Soups cooked with bones and poultry broths are considered a hearty dish, a concentrated source of F. You just need to check the quality of the meat.

Freshly prepared food is the best. But canned food is also suitable. For example, fish are recognized as the best sources of fluoride. In this case, you need to check the quality and freshness of the product. In addition to canned food, fresh fish is suitable. The main thing is that it needs to be boiled, stewed or baked with bones.

Toxic sources

Probably everyone knows about fluoridated water, which is supplied to homes through public water pipes. Tap liquid contains an inorganic form of fluoride. And this, according to doctors, is not the best safe method replenishment of mineral reserves. You should not use this water for cooking for children.

There is an increased concentration of fluoride in wine. But it is difficult to classify this drink as healthy, because the source of the component is considered to be a pesticide that was used to treat the plant. Cryolite is used, which is considered a harmful insect repellent. The concentration of the component in a glass of wine is greater than in 1 liter of fluoridated water. You should choose quality products to maintain vitamin and mineral balance.

Where else is fluoride available?

In addition to products, there are preparations with this component:

"ACT" - used to prevent caries. This is a gel applied to the teeth. It forms a film that saturates the enamel with fluoride.
"Coreberon" is a remedy that has anticaries, antirachitic, and trophic effects. It is prescribed for osteoporosis. The drug has a lot side effects and contraindications.
Sodium fluoride. Used to prevent caries in children and adults. It is used after consultation with a specialist.

You should consult your doctor about the use of fluoride medications. You should not take them without permission due to the likelihood of causing great harm to health. Typically, a doctor prescribes medications only when absolutely necessary, and in most cases the component can be obtained from food products.

Fluoride is essential for the formation of bone tissue and teeth, but a slight excess causes severe irreversible consequences. The lack of a component causes less harm, so you should not control the content of the microelement supplied with food.