Is Calgary's tap water safe again? Why a controversial mineral is making a splash again
After over a decade without fluoride in its drinking water,
Calgary
is set to reintroduce the mineral into its municipal supply beginning June 30, 2025. This follows a 2021 plebiscite in which 62 per cent of Calgarians voted in favour of resuming fluoridation to support better
dental health
outcomes.
Calgary stopped fluoridating its water in 2011, citing aging equipment and concerns over cost. However, since then, health professionals have noted a rise in tooth decay, especially among children.
Studies suggested that Calgary residents, particularly lower-income groups, were facing worsening dental health outcomes. In response to the growing evidence and public demand, city officials put the matter to a vote in 2021, resulting in a clear mandate to bring fluoride back.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Melhore a performance da sua frota [Clique]
Sistema TMS embarcador
Saiba Mais
Undo
How will it be implemented?
After extensive retrofitting and construction, fluoride will be added at two upgraded water treatment plants, Glenmore and Bearspaw. The reintroduction project cost the city $28.1 million, and the anticipated annual maintenance cost is around $1 million.
Live Events
The city aims to maintain fluoride levels at 0.7 milligrams per litre, the standard recommended by
Health Canada
to prevent tooth decay. Given the natural fluctuations in fluoride content in the Bow and Elbow rivers, water quality will be closely monitored and adjusted accordingly.
Broader health and regional impact
Alberta Health Services
, the Canadian Dental Association, and the World Health Organization endorse fluoridation as a safe, effective public health measure. It will also impact surrounding communities like Chestermere, which rely on Calgary's water supply.
This decision aligns Calgary with other Alberta cities such as Edmonton, Lethbridge, and Red Deer, which have continued fluoridation without interruption.
In contrast, two weeks ago, Florida became the second state in the US, after Utah, to ban fluoride in public drinking water. It stated that adding forced fluoride into the water supply is forced medication on people.
Social media's support, skepticism, and satire
The reintroduction has sparked a flurry of social media commentary, with reactions ranging from cautious approval to deep skepticism.
Some residents welcomed the move, saying Calgary's water quality has long needed improvement. Others, however, expressed concern over perceived health risks. Several users referred to fluoride as a 'neurotoxin' and shared videos urging people to invest in home filtration systems.
One user quipped, 'Time to invest in water filtration stocks in Alberta,' another warned of 'random poisoning' and advised switching to healthy water or filters with UV attachments.
Conspiratorial tones also emerged, with claims about fluoride affecting the pineal gland and interacting with 5G frequencies. Still, a few commentators simply saw it as a practical decision overdue for a growing city.
What comes next?
City officials say residents won't notice any difference in taste or smell, but long-term oral health outcomes are expected to improve. As the system is phased in, regular updates will be provided through Calgary's official channels.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
36 minutes ago
- Time of India
Weekly Health Horoscope Predictions, June 22 to June 28, 2025: Tips for wellness and balance based on each zodiac sign
This week, prioritize well-being by listening to your body and managing stress through mindfulness and balanced routines. While some signs may feel motivated to pursue health goals, gradual progress and adequate rest are crucial. Emotional well-being significantly impacts overall health, so nurture peace and positivity. Focus on consistent habits, balanced meals, and addressing any nagging health concerns for sustained vitality. Aries Your energy levels may fluctuate this week, making it important to listen to your body and rest when needed. While you might be motivated to start a new workout or change your diet, avoid extremes, gradual progress will be more sustainable. Mental well-being is just as important now, so find ways to release stress through mindfulness or creative hobbies. Taurus Pay attention to your diet and avoid skipping meals. Emotional stress related to family or work could impact sleep, so aim for consistency in your routine. Prioritising rest and mental balance will do wonders for your overall health. Gemini Your health remains stable this week, but your busy schedule might leave little room for self-care. It's time to be proactive about stress management and daily movement. A small change, such as reducing screen time or getting fresh air, could boost your mood and focus. Cancer You may feel emotionally drained due to unresolved tensions or pressure from various areas of life. This is a sign to take a step back and protect your peace. Your body might be asking for rest, and ignoring that call could lead to minor ailments. Focus on eating well, sleeping enough, and nurturing your emotional health. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 임플란트, 지금 시작하세요 [자세히 보기] 임플란트 더 알아보기 Undo Leo Vitality is on your side this week, and you may feel more motivated to take on new health goals. It's a great time to resume or start a consistent fitness routine. However, don't overexert yourself trying to do too much too quickly. Minor aches or fatigue might arise if you push your limits without proper recovery. Virgo You are likely to make thoughtful choices about your well-being this week. If you've recently taken up a sport or healthier habit, expect to see signs of improvement. Digestive sensitivity may occur if you're not careful with your eating habits. Stick to a routine that works for your body and avoid unnecessary indulgences. Libra This week, balance is key to maintaining health. If work or personal responsibilities are overwhelming, your energy may dip. Try not to skip meals or neglect sleep in the name of productivity. Small, daily steps, like stretching, staying hydrated, or unplugging early can create a huge difference. Scorpio Your focus may shift toward improving health routines, and your determination will help you follow through. If you've been ignoring nagging health concerns, this is the week to address them. A new approach to fitness or nutrition could bring satisfying results, especially if you're open to changing old patterns. Sagittarius You may experience an emotional upswing or downswing this week, and it will likely reflect in your physical health. It's important to slow down and be gentle with yourself. Overcommitment could lead to fatigue or minor strains. Choose rest over recklessness, especially when it comes to physical activity. Capricorn You're likely to feel strong and stable, especially if you've been paying attention to your habits. A routine that includes balanced meals and regular movement is likely to boost your stamina. While your focus may be on external goals, don't overlook rest and recovery. This week is ideal for making gradual but lasting changes to improve your vitality. Aquarius It's time to reconnect with your body and explore what truly supports your wellness. You may benefit from experimenting with new practices like meditation, breathwork, or dietary changes. Physical energy might dip at midweek, but it can be restored with quality sleep and light activity. Pisces This week, your emotional state could influence your overall health more than usual. You're especially sensitive to your environment, so surround yourself with calm and positivity. If you've been putting off a health check or a wellness goal, now is a good time to get back on track. This article is written by, Sidhharrth S Kumaar, Registered Pharmacist, Astro Numerologist, Life & Relationship Coach, Vaastu Expert, IKS Expert, I Ching Expert, Energy Healer, Music Therapist, Author of 'Think like a Sage Lead like a CEO' series and Chief Astro Strategy Officer (CASO), NumroVani. Discover everything about astrology at the Times of India , including daily horoscopes for Aries , Taurus , Gemini , Cancer , Leo , Virgo , Libra , Scorpio , Sagittarius , Capricorn , Aquarius , and Pisces .
Time of India
41 minutes ago
- Time of India
Chennai to build 750-bed multispecialty paediatric hospital at King Institute with Rs487.66 crore investment; 7 floors, 14 unique departments
CHENNAI: A 750-bed multispecialty paediatric hospital will be built on six acres of land at the King Institute of Preventive Medicine and Research campus in Guindy, health minister Ma Subramanian said here on Sunday. The new hospital will be attached to a postgraduate and super-specialty paediatric institute that will work as a constituent medical college of the Tamil Nadu Dr MGR Medical University. This will be the third hospital on the campus after Kalaignar Centenary Super-speciality Hospital and the National Institute of Ageing. The state has set aside Rs487.66 crore for the construction of a seven-storey (including the ground floor) hospital building in 3.15 lakh sq feet, with additional facilities such as hostels for doctors, nurses, students, and professors, and other medical equipment. 'This is the highest allocation for a hospital in the state so far,' Ma Subramanian, who visited King Institute along with senior health officials including health secretary P Senthilkumar to inspect the place allotted for the construction of the hospital, said. 'We got the nod from the chief minister last week. Tenders will be allocated soon, and construction is likely to begin in September,' he said. The institute will be funded and run entirely by the university, he said. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Free P2,000 GCash eGift UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo The hospital will have 100-bed intensive care units, pay wards, shared wards, and suites. University Vice-Chancellor Dr K Narayanasamy said the hospital will have 20 departments, including 14 unique departments. The departments include medicine, critical care, surgery, gastroenterology, orthopaedics, neurology, nephrology, pulmonology, cardiology, urology, hemato-oncology, neurosurgery, plastic surgery, and an organ transplant unit. 'After the hospital is established, we will start postgraduate super-speciality courses in paediatrics, and the institution will serve as a centre of excellence for paediatric care in rare diseases. It will also undertake research to bridge the gap between academic learning and real-world paediatric healthcare delivery,' he said. The new institute will also help the university take part in NIRF rankings, he added.
Time of India
an hour ago
- Time of India
5 Animals can live far longer than humans
When we think about long life, humans often come to mind, especially with ever-advancing medical progress pushing life expectancy further. But the animal world also has its own champions of a long lifespan, and some of them make our lifespans look short by comparison. These creatures are found everywhere, from the deepest oceans to remote islands, and they live quietly for centuries, outlasting generations of humans without anyone even noticing. But the question remains, what makes these animals so different? Some have these exceptionally long lifespans due to their slow metabolisms, others due to unique genetic traits or extreme environmental conditions. While humans may strive for longevity through diet, medicine, and exercise, nature has already achieved the art of aging gracefully, and that too in unexpected corners of the animal kingdom. Many of these animals show little to no signs of aging, and continue to survive well even in extreme old age. Here are some of the longest living animals that outlive human beings Rougheye rockfish The rougheye rockfish, which is native to the North Pacific, is one of the longest-living fish species on Earth. It can live up to 205 years, according to research by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This deep-sea fish lives in cold, oxygen-rich waters, which help slow its metabolism and aging process. Its longevity is a result of living in stable, low-predator environments. Despite being relatively unknown, this pinkish fish is a living reminder that the ocean still holds ancient secrets. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Ofertas Hotel PortAventura PortAventura World Compra ahora Undo Bowhead whale The bowhead whale is a true Arctic legend, not just for its massive size, but for its exceptional lifespan of over 200 years. One individual was even discovered with a harpoon embedded in its body from the 1800s. According to studies by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, bowheads age incredibly slowly and have unique DNA repair capabilities. These whales live in icy waters, which is a possible reason for their long lives by lowering stress and cellular damage. They are among the longest-living mammals on Earth. Scarlet koi fish Koi fish are often seen in ornamental ponds, but some varieties, especially scarlet koi, are famous for their age-defying lives. While most koi live 25–35 years, a legendary scarlet koi named Hanako reportedly lived 226 years, as confirmed by scale testing at a Japanese university. Though this is exceptional, it shows koi can live far longer than expected under ideal conditions. Their slow metabolism, stress-free environment, and minimal predators all contribute to their long lifespans in captivity. Aldabra giant tortoise The Aldabra giant tortoise, native to the Seychelles, is famous for its long, slow life. These tortoises can live over 150 years, with some reports of individuals reaching 200. One tortoise named Adwaita was believed to have lived over 250 years in an Indian zoo. Their slow metabolism, herbivorous diet, and relaxed lifestyle allow them to age at a glacial pace. They also have few natural predators, especially in controlled environments, helping them enjoy incredibly long lives. Escarpia laminata This deep-sea tubeworm may not look quite beautiful, but it's one of the oldest living creatures ever recorded. Escarpia laminata, found near hydrothermal vents in the Gulf of Mexico, can live for over 300 years. According to a 2017 study published in Nature, some specimens were estimated to be more than 300 years old, this is because of their low-energy lifestyle and stable habitat. Their bodies grow extremely slowly, and they reproduce late, making their long lifespan an adaptation to deep-sea life.
