The process where nitrate moves from blood to saliva and gets converted to nitrite by mouth bacteria is important for keeping nitrite levels stable in the blood.
Scientific Claim
The enterosalivary circulation of nitrate to nitrite is important for maintaining baseline nitrite levels in healthy young adults, as evidenced by the correlation between plasma and salivary nitrite levels.
Original Statement
“The significant correlation between baseline plasma nitrite levels and salivary nitrite levels supports the notion of a dependence of circulating levels of nitrite on the enterosalivary circuit.”
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 'is important for maintaining' appropriately reflects the association observed without implying causation.
More Accurate Statement
“The enterosalivary circulation of nitrate to nitrite is associated with maintaining baseline nitrite levels in healthy young adults, as evidenced by the correlation between plasma and salivary nitrite levels.”
Evidence from Studies
Supporting (1)
Physiological role for nitrate-reducing oral bacteria in blood pressure control