Minimizing Bioavailability of Fluoride through Addition of Calcium-magnesium Citrate or a Calcium and Magnesium-containing Vegetable to the Diets of Growing Rats

Abstract

Introduction: Fluorosis is a public health problem in Ethiopia. Fluoride absorption may be decreased by dietary divalent cations which form insoluble complexes with the fluoride ion. Aim: This study aimed to assess the effect of dietary calcium-magnesium citrate or Moringa stenopetala dry leaf on apparent absorption of fluoride in animals. Samples: Animals (14 weeks) were on fluoridated/non-fluoridated water and calcium and magnesium supplemented diet. Study Design: Rats received fluoridated or non-fluoridated (control) water (10 mg/L) with or with out calcium magnesium citrate (0.5 mg) or moringa stenopetala dry leaf powder(0.1 g) blended with daily ration. Place and Duration of Study: Department of food science and nutrition research, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, 2014. Methods: Twelve female Wistar rats of similar age (14 weeks) and weight (186.7±5.4 g) were placed in metabolic cages for 42 consecutive days and given one of 4 treatments: corn-soya blend (CSB control); CSB and fluoridated water (10 mg/L F); CSB, fluoridated water (10mg F/L) and calcium-magnesium citrate (0.5 mg); CSB, fluoridated water (10 mgF/L) and Moringa stenopetala (0.1 g). Urine and faeces were collected weekly. Results: Supplementation of calcium-magnesium or Moringa stenopetala leaf significantly (p < 0.05) reduced urinary fluoride and increased fecal fluoride level, indicating less absorption of fluoride. Conclusion: This study provides evidence for a dietary approach in reducing fluorosis.