The Claim
Six weeks of daily dietary nitrate intake increases salivary nitrite concentration and alters the oral microbiome in hypercholesterolemic adults by increasing the relative abundance of Neisseria flavescens and trending to increase Rothia mucilaginosa.
What the research says
Supports is higher
Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.
These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.
In adults with high cholesterol, consuming dietary nitrate daily for six weeks raises levels of nitrite in saliva and changes the types of bacteria in the mouth, specifically increasing Neisseria flavescens and slightly increasing Rothia mucilaginosa.
See the scientific wording
Six weeks of daily dietary nitrate intake increases salivary nitrite concentration and alters the oral microbiome in hypercholesterolemic adults, specifically increasing the relative abundance of Neisseria flavescens and trending to increase Rothia mucilaginosa, both nitrate-reducing bacteria.
When a person eats nitrate-rich food, the nitrate enters the saliva, where specific bacteria convert it into nitrite. These bacteria become more numerous after daily nitrate intake. The nitrite is swallowed and absorbed into the blood, where it is turned into nitric oxide. Nitric oxide relaxes blood vessels and reduces platelet stickiness, improving circulation.
What the research says
1 studyDrinking beetroot juice every day for six weeks changed the mouth bacteria in people with high cholesterol, increasing the good bacteria that turn nitrate into nitrite—exactly what the claim says.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.