As someone who’s has been interested in health and wellness for several years, I’ve spent a lot of time researching the effects of various substances on our bodies. One topic that keeps coming up is fluoride and its potential impact on our health. Many water suppliers add fluoride to improve dental health, but some people worry about its long-term effects on the body. I am one of them and in this post I’ll share what I’ve learned about removing fluoride from your body, and some practical steps you can take if you’re looking to reduce your fluoride exposure. 

How Long Does Fluoride Stay in Your Body?

Before we dive into removal methods, let’s address a common question: How long does fluoride actually stay in your body? The answer isn’t straightforward, as it depends on several factors.
 
Fluoride can accumulate in your bones and teeth over time. These hard tissues store about 99% of the fluoride in your body. Fluoride in bone has a half-life, meaning it takes several years to eliminate half of it. However, the fluoride in soft tissues and blood has a much shorter half-life, typically just a few hours.
 
This means that while you can relatively quickly reduce the amount of fluoride circulating in your bloodstream, it takes much longer to reduce the overall fluoride content in your body. That’s why prevention—reducing your fluoride intake—is just as important as active removal methods.

How do you detox your body from fluoride?

Filter Your Water

One of the most effective ways to reduce your fluoride intake is to filter your drinking water. Here are some options I’ve found particularly useful: 

• Reverse Osmosis Filter: This is one of the most effective methods for removing fluoride from water. A reverse osmosis system can remove up to 99% of fluoride, along with other contaminants. While it’s a bit of an investment upfront, I’ve found it to be worth it for the peace of mind it provides.
   
• Ceramic Benchtop Water Filter: These filters are another great option. They’re portable, don’t require installation, and can effectively reduce fluoride levels. I love the convenience of being able to move them around as needed.
   
• Gravity Water Filter: Similar to ceramic filters, these are easy to use and maintain. While not all benchtop filters remove fluoride, there are specific water filter that filters fluoride. Do your research to find one that explicitly states it removes fluoride.
   

Increase Your Iodine Intake

Iodine plays a crucial role in our bodies, particularly in thyroid function. Interestingly, iodine and fluoride are both halogens, which means they can compete for absorption in our bodies. By ensuring you have adequate iodine intake, you can help prevent fluoride absorption. 
I’ve found that incorporating iodine-rich foods into my diet has been helpful. These include seaweed (especially kelp), fish, eggs, and dairy products. However, it’s important not to overdo it—too much iodine can also be harmful. As always, consult with a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet.
 

Boost Your Calcium and Magnesium Intake

Calcium and magnesium are two minerals that can help protect your body from fluoride toxicity. They work by binding to fluoride, making it less bioavailable. I’ve made it a point to include plenty of calcium and magnesium-rich foods in my diet, such as leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and dairy products (if you’re not lactose intolerant).
 

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water (filtered, of course!) can help flush toxins, including fluoride, from your body. I aim for at least 8 glasses a day, and I’ve noticed improvements in my overall health since making this a habit.
 

Consider Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal is known for its ability to bind to toxins in the body. Although further research is necessary to determine its effectiveness specifically for fluoride, some individuals find it beneficial when incorporated into a more comprehensive detox regimen. If you’re considering this option, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional first, as activated charcoal can interact with certain medications.

The Long-Term Approach: Patience & Consistency

Removing fluoride from your body is not an overnight process. It takes time and consistent effort. The most important step is reducing your ongoing exposure, which is why investing in a quality water filter is so crucial.
 
As with any health-related changes, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new regimen. They can provide personalised advice based on your individual health needs and circumstances.
 
By taking these steps, you’re not just working on removing fluoride from your body—you’re making positive changes that can improve your overall health and well-being.