In rats, higher nitrate levels in blood and saliva were linked to lower blood pressure, showing how the body's nitrate system might help control blood pressure.
Scientific Claim
In Wistar rats, blood pressure was inversely correlated with blood nitrate levels (r = -0.619, p = 0.005), salivary nitrate levels (r = -0.627, p = 0.007), and salivary nitrite levels (r = -0.552, p = 0.022), suggesting a relationship between nitrate metabolism and blood pressure regulation.
Original Statement
“Across both groups, significant inverse correlations between DBP and blood nitrate (r = − 0.619, p = 0.005), salivary nitrate (r = − 0.627, p = 0.007), and salivary nitrite (r = − 0.552, p = 0.022) were observed.”
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 is an animal model showing association between nitrate levels and blood pressure. The verb 'was inversely correlated' is appropriate for this correlational finding in an animal study.
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
Functional mouth rinse containing inorganic nitrate and antioxidants bolsters the enterosalivary pathway and lowers blood pressure in Wistar rats