By Jeannie Versagli & Rachel Mayan
But first, what is it?
Fluoride is a mineral found in soil.
Health Benefits
Flouride is essential for the normal mineralization of bones and the formation of dental enamel. This mineral aids in maintaining bone structure and the reduction of tooth decay.
Food Sources
Most of our daily fluoride intake comes from drinking water. Water is found to have natural amounts of fluoride present; these amounts vary depending on the soil content. It is therefore necessary to supplement our diets with fluoride to provide adequate amounts for daily intake. Foods containing good sources of this mineral are dried fruits, dried beans, cocoa powder, walnuts, and teas. Tea plants absorb fluoride from the soil in greater amounts. Teas containing higher amounts fluoride are black, green, oolong, and white teas. Herbal teas contain the least amount of fluoride.
Dietary Reference Intake
According to the Institute of Medicine Standing Committee on the Scientific Evaluation of Dietary Reference Intake,
Infants from 0-6 months: 0.01 mg/day
7-12 months: 0.50 mg/day
1-3 years: 0.7 mg/day
4-8 years: 1.0 mg/day
9-13 years: 2.0 mg/day
14-18 years: 3.0 mg/day
Males 19 and Older: 4 mg/day
Females 19 and Older: 3 mg/day
Pregnant & Nursing Women: 3 mg/day
Raspberry-Peach Oolong Smoothie Recipe
Ingredients: 2 medium ripe peaches (pits removed and sliced), 2 bags oolong tea, 1 cup fresh raspberries, 1 cup greek yogurt, 1/4 cup lime juice, 4-5 ice cubes, 2 tbsp. honey, mint (optional)
Steps:
- Brew tea bags as directed on package or to personal taste. Set aside and let chill for 10 minutes.
- Combine all ingredients and mix in blender.
- Serve and garnish with mint.
- Enjoy!
