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AMA #15: Fluoride Benefits/Risks & Vagus Nerve Stimulation

Feb 1, 2024 29m 2s 9 insights
Welcome to a preview of the 15th Ask Me Anything (AMA) episode, part of Huberman Lab Premium. Huberman Lab Premium was launched for two main reasons. First, it was launched in order to raise support for the main Huberman Lab podcast — which will continue to come out every Monday at zero-cost. Second, it was launched as a means to raise funds for important scientific research. A significant portion of proceeds from the Huberman Lab Premium subscription will fund human research (not animal models) selected by Dr. Huberman, with a dollar-for-dollar match from the Tiny Foundation. Read our Annual Letter 2023. If you're an existing Premium member, you can login to access the full episode. If you're not a member, you can join Huberman Lab Premium to enjoy exclusive content, including monthly Ask Me Anything (AMA) episodes, AMA transcripts, podcast episode transcripts, early access to live events and help advance human scientific research.
Actionable Insights

1. Filter Drinking Water Fluoride

Consider filtering your tap water to remove fluoride, especially given potential health concerns from excessive intake and the relatively low cost of most effective filters. This can help mitigate risks associated with consuming too much fluoride.

2. Test Tap Water Fluoride

Determine the fluoride concentration in your tap water by getting it tested or using online resources. This information is crucial for making informed decisions about whether to filter your water and manage your fluoride intake.

3. Use Soft Toothbrush

Use a soft toothbrush to avoid brushing too hard, which can cause gum tissue recession and create recesses where bacteria can accumulate. Such bacterial accumulation can potentially lead to broader health issues like cardiac or metabolic disease.

4. Schedule Regular Dental Cleanings

Attend dental cleanings approximately twice a year, or as recommended by your dentist, to maintain oral health. Visiting a dentist is necessary to determine your specific needs for dental care.

5. Understand Fluoride Dosage

Recognize that ’the dose makes the poison’ when it comes to fluoride; its potential for harm or benefit depends entirely on the concentration consumed. This principle should guide your decisions regarding fluoride intake from water or toothpaste.

6. Fluoride & Body Weight

When considering safe fluoride levels, remember that individual tolerance varies by body weight, meaning smaller individuals (like children) may be more susceptible to lower concentrations. Drug dosages are typically calculated by body weight for this reason.

7. Protect Oral Microbiome

Be aware that some aggressive oral hygiene practices, while aiming for clean teeth and fresh breath, can inadvertently damage the critical oral microbiome. Maintaining a healthy oral microbiome is essential for overall oral and systemic health.

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Subscribe to the Huberman Lab Podcast premium channel at hubermanlab.com/premium for $10/month or $100/year to access full AMA episodes, transcripts, premium tools, and to support research matched by the Tiny Foundation.

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