FLUORINE

Description

Fluorine is essential for building bones and teeth and for preventing tooth decay.

Sources

Fluorine is naturally present in water and is found in most foods.

Foods rich in fluorine include seafood, fish and tea. It is also found in fluoride tooth paste and some municipalities add fluoride to their drinking water.

Adequate intake (AI)

AI is the recommended average daily nutrient intake based on estimates of nutrient intake by groups of healthy people.

Vitamin Requirement
 Age  Men   Women 
 1-3 years 0.7 mg 0.7 mg
 4-8 years 1 mg 1 mg
 9-13 years 2 mg 2 mg
 14-18 years 3 mg 3 mg
 Age  Men   Women 
 19-50 years 4 mg 3 mg
 > 50 years 4 mg 3 mg
 Grossesse    
 Allaitement    

Deficiency

A fluorine deficiency is, for all intents and purposes, impossible.

Toxicity

Mild cases may cause dental fluorosis which is characterized by spots on the enamel. Fluoride toothpaste should therefore not be swallowed.

Supplements

Generally speaking, supplements are not necessary.

Children who are prone to tooth decay and who do not have access to fluoridated water may need to take supplements. Fluorine supplements should not be administered to children before they are evaluated by a dentist.

To prevent tooth decay, between 0.25 and 1 mg per day are administered. For bone disorders such as osteoporosis and otospongiosis, higher doses are required.

Watch what you eat. Diet has a significant impact on health!