Heavy Drinking Could Increase ‘ Bad ’ Bacteria In Mouth, Study Finds

CBS Local – People who drink more than the recommended daily limit of alcohol may harbor an unhealthy mix of bacteria in their mouths, a new study suggests. Researchers found that compared with nondrinkers, those who drank heavily had fewer “good” bacteria in their mouths. They were also hosting more “bad” bacteria — including bugs that have been linked to gum disease, heart disease, and cancer. The study is one of the latest to look at what factors influence the human “microbiome” – the trillions of bacteria and other microbes that naturally dwell in the body. Many studies have found links between the makeup of the gut’s microbiome and risks of various diseases. In general, studies have found that the more diversity there is in the gut microbiome, the better. Similarly, research suggests that an imbalance in the mouth’s microbiome might raise the risk of cavities and gum disease – as well as cancers of the head, neck, digestive tract and heart disease. “We wanted to look at the question, ‘What are the lifestyle factors that influence the oral microbiome?'” said senior researcher Jiyoung Ahn, of NYU Langone Health in New York City. Drinking habits are a natural factor to consider, according to Ahn. Heavy drinking is linked to higher risks of gum disease and certain cancers of the head and neck – and there is evidence that alcohol changes the bacterial makeup of the mouth. Ah...
Source: WBZ-TV - Breaking News, Weather and Sports for Boston, Worcester and New Hampshire - Category: Consumer Health News Authors: Tags: Health News Drinking Gum Disease Local TV Microbiome talkers Source Type: news