Study links tongue bacteria to cognitive performance

A study involving 60 adults has found a possible connection between certain types of bacteria on the tongue and how well people perform on cognitive tests. Researchers from the University of Exeter and UZ Brussels examined participants from the United Kingdom and Belgium, focusing on both younger adults in their twenties and older adults aged 60 to 70 years.

Participants underwent cognitive testing

Each participant completed ten memory tests, attention assessments, and evaluations of processing speed. These tests aimed to measure various aspects of cognitive function, including how quickly and accurately individuals could perform mental tasks.

Researchers collected biological samples

In addition to cognitive testing, the researchers collected tongue swabs, saliva, and blood samples from each participant. They also measured each person’s blood pressure to gather additional health-related data.

Study focuses on oral bacteria’s role in nitric oxide production

The researchers hypothesized that oral bacteria might influence cognitive function by converting dietary nitrates into nitrites and then into nitric oxide, a molecule that helps blood vessels dilate and improve blood flow. This pathway is considered important for overall health and brain function.

Certain bacteria linked to faster mental responses

The study found that individuals with higher levels of the bacterium Prevotella histicola performed better on several mental tasks, responding more quickly in both the United Kingdom and Belgium. Another bacterium, Haemophilus parainfluenzae, was also frequently observed in the results.

More research needed to confirm findings

While the study suggests a potential link between oral bacteria and cognitive performance, the results are preliminary and require further investigation to establish a clear connection and understand the underlying mechanisms.