Bacteria in the mouth help keep nitrite levels in the blood stable, which is shown by the fact that people with higher nitrite in their saliva also tend to have higher nitrite in their blood.
Scientific Claim
Oral nitrate-reducing bacteria contribute to maintaining baseline plasma nitrite levels in healthy young adults, as evidenced by the correlation between baseline plasma nitrite and salivary nitrite levels.
Original Statement
“Importantly baseline plasma nitrite concentration in these individuals was correlated with salivary nitrite levels (Supplementary Fig. S1A).”
Evidence Quality Assessment
Claim Status
appropriately stated
Study Design Support
Design supports claim
Appropriate Language Strength
association
Can only show association/correlation
Assessment Explanation
The study design supports correlational claims. The language 'contribute to maintaining' appropriately reflects the association observed without implying causation.
More Accurate Statement
“Oral nitrate-reducing bacteria are associated with baseline plasma nitrite levels in healthy young adults, as evidenced by the correlation between baseline plasma nitrite and salivary nitrite levels.”
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
Physiological role for nitrate-reducing oral bacteria in blood pressure control