Could Fluoridation End? Mondays with Mark Explores the Debate

The highlight of my week is the back-and-forth email conversations with all of you. Still, when things get busy, these newsletters are often the first task to slip. So I’m committing to better consistency in 2022. As always, hit reply with any questions or thoughts—I genuinely enjoy hearing from you.

Here’s what’s on my mind this week:

We may be approaching the end of water fluoridation in our lifetimes.

I’m eagerly awaiting an update on the federal fluoride lawsuit scheduled for Tuesday, January 18. This landmark trial could change the long-standing practice of adding fluoride to public water supplies for around 200 million Americans and could have important implications for protecting future generations from potential neurological harm.

Research suggests fluoride can affect sleep.

A study proposes that fluoride may contribute to premature calcification of the pineal gland, which can reduce melatonin production and disrupt sleep. Because of concerns like this, I take vitamin K2 twice daily—both fat- and water-soluble forms. I’ve found one company that combines both forms into a single product, which is why I regularly use it.

If you’d like a clear introduction to the fluoride debate, listen to this podcast interview for a solid overview.

Podcast Episode #32: The “F” Treatment

Around eight percent of the annual U.S. dentistry budget goes toward fluoride treatments for children. In this episode I explore the scientific evidence suggesting these treatments may be harmful to pediatric patients. Feel free to share the episode with patients, parents, or your dentist.

Thanks for reading—wishing you a great week.

P.S. I’m looking forward to reviewing Dr. Kara Fitzgerald’s new book once I receive my copy. I often say that genetics alone don’t determine health—lifestyle and epigenetics play a major role in how genes are expressed. Many adults spend their later years managing multiple conditions and medications; this book focuses on strategies to “age backwards,” a concept I refer to as “square the life curve.” I’ll share my thoughts after I’ve read it.