
1. Fluoride is naturally found in soil, water and foods. Added fllouride in toothpaste (especially for children) can lead to skeletal fluorosis, a bone disease, thyroid problems, neurological issues and other problems. In 2014 fluoride was listed as a neurotoxin hazardous to childhood development.
2. Artificial sweeteners can cause diarrhea and cognitive issues and have been linked to bladder cancer, brain tumors and lymphoma.
3. Sodium laurel sulfate, originally used to clean floors, is a detergent and can lead to microscopic mouth tears and canker sores.
4. Carrageenan has been kinked to gastrointestinal inflammation, ulcers and even colon cancer in laboratory tests. It has also been linked to glucose intolerance and insulin resistance.
5. Artificial colors have found to be toxic and only seven colors remain on the FDA's approved list. Yellow #5 is now under review due to links to hyperactivity, anxiety, migraines and cancer.
6. Propylene glycol is the main ingredient in antifreeze. It has been linked to damage to the central nervous system, liver and heart.
7. Triclosan - is linked to a decrease in thyroid hormone and an increase in antibiotic resistance.
So, in my efforts to recycle and use healthy, sustainable products, I have found some natural toothpastes that are fun for children to make and are better for their oral health. They can be mixed and stored in reusable containers.
Simply take three tablespoons of coconut oil, 1 teaspoon of baking soda and 1 tablespoon of sea salt. Combine all ingredients. For a minty fresh taste, add a drop or two of peppermint essential oil. Stir together in a small jar that can be reused again.
If coconut does not agree with you, there are coconut free toothpaste recipes online that you can try.
I will add the toothpaste to my growing collection of recycled, renewed and sustainable products. It is growing every day