Joe Rogan blasts whoever decided to put Fluoride in the Water

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In a recent episode of his podcast, Joe Rogan didn’t hold back his thoughts on water fluoridation, calling out what he sees as a questionable public health measure.

The podcast host expressed strong skepticism about the practice of adding fluoride to public water supplies, describing it as “so goddamned insane that you’re taking a neurotoxin and you’re putting it in the water.”

Rogan’s Concerns About Fluoride

Rogan pointed to scientific research supporting his concerns, stating, “There are conclusive studies that show a direct correlation between high levels of fluoride in the local water and lower IQs. And it’s a neurotoxin. We know it’s bad for you in large doses.”

He particularly took issue with how some educated individuals defend the practice. “There are f*cking people out there with college degrees who read the New York Times, who think they’re sensible people that will get angry if you want to remove this neurotoxin from water because look at all the strides it’s done in preventing tooth decay. And you just want to say, ‘Hey man, f*ck you. This is stupid,'” Rogan remarked.

During the discussion, Rogan shared an observation from his friend Eddie Bravo about fluoride-free toothpaste products. “When you get toothpaste, do you ever see toothpaste that says fluoride-free? Why would they say that and advertise it if fluoride wasn’t bad for you?” he quoted Bravo as saying.

The conversation concluded with Rogan suggesting a simpler solution to dental health: “Just brush your f*cking teeth. It’s really that simple.”

The Scientific Case for Fluoridation

Despite Rogan’s strong stance, numerous scientific studies and health organizations support the practice of water fluoridation as a safe and effective public health measure. Here are some key scientific studies and public health reports that reinforce its benefits:

1. The Grand Rapids Study (1945–1955)

Source: Arnold, F. A., Dean, H. T., Jay, P., & Knutson, J. W. (1956)

  • Grand Rapids, Michigan, was the first U.S. city to fluoridate its water.
  • Over 10 years, children in Grand Rapids saw a 60% reduction in cavities compared to non-fluoridated communities.
  • This study became the foundation for modern water fluoridation policies.

2. CDC Report on Water Fluoridation (1999)

Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

  • Declared water fluoridation one of the top 10 public health achievements of the 20th century.
  • Showed significant cavity reduction across all age groups.
  • Found no credible evidence of serious health risks at recommended levels.

3. The York Review (2000)

Source: McDonagh, M., Whiting, P., Bradley, M., et al. (2000), BMJ

  • A systematic review of over 214 studies on fluoride and health.
  • Concluded fluoridation reduces tooth decay while having minimal risk of adverse effects.
  • Noted that dental fluorosis can occur but is generally mild and cosmetic.

4. Australian NHMRC Review (2017)

Source: NHMRC, Evidence Evaluation on the Health Effects of Water Fluoridation

  • Reviewed over 60 years of data from multiple countries.
  • Found strong evidence that fluoridation reduces cavities in both children and adults.
  • No consistent link between fluoridation and negative health effects like cancer or kidney disease.

5. Cochrane Review (2015)

Source: Iheozor-Ejiofor, Z., et al., Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews

  • Reviewed studies from different countries.
  • Found a 35% reduction in cavities in baby teeth and 26% in permanent teeth due to fluoridation.
  • Noted a higher incidence of mild dental fluorosis but no severe health risks.

6. New Zealand Fluoride Study (2014)

Source: Broadbent, J. M., Thomson, W. M., et al. American Journal of Public Health

  • Studied 1,000 people over 38 years.
  • Found no difference in IQ levels between those who grew up with and without fluoridated water.
  • Confirmed significant reduction in tooth decay.

Summary of Scientific Consensus

  • Fluoridation reduces cavities by 25–60%, depending on the population.
  • No credible evidence of serious health risks at recommended levels (0.7 mg/L in the U.S.).
  • Supported by major organizations: WHO, CDC, ADA, NIH, NHS (UK), NHMRC (Australia), and Cochrane Review.

The Debate Continues

Joe Rogan’s comments have added fuel to the ongoing debate about water fluoridation. While he and others raise concerns about its potential neurotoxic effects, the broader scientific community continues to support fluoridation as a cost-effective way to improve dental health.

Ultimately, the discussion highlights a broader question: Should individuals have the choice to opt out of fluoridated water, or does public health policy take precedence?