Your Mouth Holds The Key To Your Memory-But You Will Never Know About It

Scientists have linked certain bacteria found in people's mouths to changes in their brain functions later in life. In their research, scientists from the University of Exeter, UK found that certain types of oral bacteria were associated with better memory and attention, while others were linked to poor brain health and neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's disease.

"We might be able to predict if you have the Alzheimer's gene even before you start getting problems or think about going to the doctor for a diagnosis," lead author Dr Joanna L'Heureux said. She added that while the team's research is still in the early stage, it raises an important question—Can eating healthy food such as nitrate-rich leafy greens influence brain health by boosting certain bacteria?

There is empirical evidence that suggests that around 20 million microbes live inside a person's mouth. It comprises 700 different species of microbes.

What Were The Study's Findings?

The study recruited 115 volunteers over the age of 50 who had already carried out cognitive tests as part of another project. Researchers split them into two groups - those with no issues with their brain function decline and those with some mild cognitive problems. The participants in both groups sent in mouth rinse samples that were then analysed, and the bacteria populations studied.

The university said people who had large numbers of the bacteria groups Neisseria and Haemophilus had better memory, attention and ability to do complex tasks. On the other hand, greater levels of the bacteria, Porphyromonas, in individuals was linked to memory problems. Another type of bacteria, Prevotella, was linked to low nitrite, which was more common in people that carried the Alzheimer's disease risk gene.

"If certain bacteria support brain function while others contribute to decline, then treatments that alter the balance of bacteria in the mouth could be part of a solution to prevent dementia. This could be through dietary changes, probiotics, oral hygiene routines, or even targeted treatments," said Dr L'Heureux.

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Nitrates Are Important To Cultivate Pro-Brain Bacteria

Meanwhile, researchers also underscored that leafy greens are some of the biggest natural sources of nitrates that cultivate good oral bacteria. Dr L'Heureux said, "We would recommend you have things like beetroot, leafy greens like spinach, rocket, lettuces, lots of salads and reduce consumption of things like alcohol and highly processed sugary foods." It is a well-known fact that nitrates are pivotal to maintaining blood pressure and vascular homeostasis. They impact brain function by influencing blood flow and neurotransmission. While dietary nitrates from vegetables may enhance cognitive function by improving oxygen delivery, excessive nitrates from processed foods can contribute to neurodegeneration and cognitive decline.

Prof. Anni Vanhatalo, associate pro-vice chancellor for research and impact at the university, gave a suggestion. She said, "In the future, we could collect these mouth samples as part of GP appointments and get them processed to give an early indication if someone is at elevated risk of neurodegenerative disease like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease."

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