The move comes on the heels of growing scientific evidence pointing to the risks associated with chronic exposure to elevated fluoride levels. A recent meta analysis titled “Impacts of Fluoride Neurotoxicity and Mitochondrial Dysfunction on Cognition and Mental Health: A Literature Review” provides a comprehensive overview of these concerns. The review states these point of Science:

“Developing brains are significantly more susceptible to neurotoxic damage from fluoride than mature brains are [13,37,53]. Children have a higher fluoride retention rate than adults; adults typically retain 50-60% of ingested fluoride, while infants and children retain approximately 80-90% [13]. This has led researchers to explore the impact that fluoride has on brain development.

“There is a significant body of research assessing the cognitive outcomes resulting from fluoride exposure. Since 2012, many journals have published several notable literature reviews and meta-analyses regarding fluoride and developmental neurotoxicity. A meta-analysis conducted by Choi et al. in 2012 looked at twenty-seven studies published between 1989 and 2011. This analysis concluded that increased fluoride exposure was related to a decreased IQ in children.

“Fluoride exposure is ubiquitous; fluoride is naturally found in most water sources in low amounts [4]. The addition of supplemental fluoride in water systems could have developmental detriments to regular consumers or the offspring of those who have been exposed. A review of the current literature was necessary to aggregate information related to cognition/mental health, mitochondrial function, and toxicity issues to increase accessibility and to prompt further work. In animals, fluoride has been implicated in altered cognitive functions, behavioral changes, and mitochondrial damage. Sex differences have also been noted in some studies addressing fluoride exposure in animals. Likewise, researchers continue to investigate cognitive, mental health, and mitochondrial abnormalities as they relate to chronic fluoride exposure. Chronic exposure may be linked to decreased intelligence, memory deficits, learning difficulties, and ADHD. There is little work on the effect of fluoride on internalizing disorders such as depression and anxiety. Additionally, we know very little about the impact of fluoride exposure during childhood and adolescence; current works primarily identify developmental deficits, only referencing prenatal and perinatal exposure.

“Fluoride-induced mitochondrial damage may include structural changes, damage resulting in neuroinflammation, altered neurotransmitter levels, and disruptions to key signaling pathways. Furthermore, the pathogenesis of fluoride exposure on mitochondrial function must be further evaluated. More work is needed to gain a comprehensive picture as to the impact and timing of fluoride exposure on mental health outcomes and the role of mitochondrial function as a biological mechanism.”

This rigorous review underscores the potential for fluoride — when present in supplemental amounts — to contribute to cognitive and developmental challenges. By eliminating the practice of adding extra fluoride to public water supplies, Utah is prioritizing the health of its citizens, particularly vulnerable populations such as children and pregnant women.

Balancing public health and personal choice

It’s important to note that Utah’s new law does not outlaw fluoride consumption altogether. Residents who prefer to benefit from fluoride’s dental protective properties still have the option to access it through alternative means. This balanced approach respects individual choice while preventing inadvertent overexposure at the community level.

A contrast with other states

While Utah sets a precedent by keeping fluoride levels at naturally occurring amounts, other states like Illinois have adopted more aggressive fluoridation practices — reportedly adding up to three times the recommended amount. Such differences raise critical questions about what constitutes safe exposure and highlight the importance of aligning public health policies with the latest scientific evidence.

A great move to make America healthy again

By focusing on health rather than ideological battles over personal freedom, Utah’s decision reflects a commitment to evidence-based policy. This is not just a win for public health advocates but for all residents who depend on safe, clean drinking water every day. As research continues to evolve, Utah’s proactive stance may well serve as a model for other states seeking to protect their communities from the potential harms of overexposure to fluoride.

Utah’s ban on supplemental fluoride in drinking water represents a courageous and scientifically informed policy decision — a step that prioritizes the long-term cognitive and overall health of its citizens over unchecked chemical supplementation in our most essential resource.

David Willis moved to Ogden in 2008 and has established a successful career as a real estate agent serving Ogden and the rest of Northern Utah in residential and commercial real estate.