Oral bacteria may influence cognitive performance, with regional differences observed in how they affect reaction times and brain function.
Bacteria linked to cognitive performance
A study published in the journal PLOS One and reported by Popular Mechanics suggests that bacteria in the mouth may influence cognitive performance, such as memory and attention. The research, led by Joanna L'Heureux, a biologist at the University of Exeter in England, involved participants from England and Belgium who provided saliva and blood samples for analysis.Oral bacteria and brain circulation
The study found that certain oral bacteria may improve blood circulation to the brain, which is vital for cognitive function. Nitrates from foods like beets are converted by oral bacteria into nitrites, which the body uses to produce nitric oxide, a molecule that helps blood flow to the brain.Geographic differences in bacterial effects
The research revealed that the impact of oral bacteria on cognitive performance varies by geographic region. For example, in Belgium, the bacterium Haemophilus parainfluenzae is associated with faster reaction times, while in the United Kingdom, the same bacterium is linked to slower reaction times in the same tests.Challenges in replicating findings
The researchers note that while changes in the oral microbiome related to age and geographic location have been studied separately, it remains unclear whether these microbial patterns and their links to cognitive performance can be consistently observed across different populations.Age and nitrite levels
The study also found that young adults have higher nitrite levels than older individuals, though age appears to have a relatively minor impact on the relationship between test performance and nitrate and nitrite levels. The researchers caution that they cannot definitively say oral bacteria influence cognition, as age remains the primary factor affecting cognitive results.Need for further research
The researchers suggest that some bacteria may have beneficial effects on gray matter, which is essential for cognitive function, but they emphasize that more studies are needed to confirm these findings.
