Brain-Boosting Bacteria Discovered in Surprising Spot
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted March 21, 2025
Researchers have uncovered a tremendous amount of information about the gut-brain connection in the last few years.
For example, earlier this week, I explained how probiotics can naturally ease anxiety.
But scientists’ latest discovery isn’t about what’s in your GUT. Instead, it’s about what’s in your MOUTH.
And it might make you think twice about your oral care routine…
A new study published in PNAS Nexus reveals that a group of naturally occurring mouth-dwelling bacteria called Neisseria could protect your brain from cognitive decline.
Researchers discovered something incredible when they examined 60 seniors with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and 60 healthy controls.
Seniors with more of these beneficial bacteria had …
- better working memory,
- sharper executive function,
- and improved visual attention.
But it gets better…
Higher Neisseria levels were linked to better memory—even in the folks with no signs of cognitive decline.
In other words, nurturing our Neisseria population could help us stay sharper as we age.
Scientists believe you can boost your levels of these beneficial bacteria in just weeks by promoting an overall healthy microbiome using probiotics to increase your number of good gut bugs and prebiotics to feed them.
But don’t stop there. Committing to a few simple lifestyle changes will continue to support your oral (and brain) health:
- Regularly brush and floss your teeth.
- Avoid overbrushing with harsh chemical-based oral-care products. Instead, choose natural ones that support a healthy bacterial balance (the EWG’s Skin Deep database can help you find some).
- Stay hydrated. A moist mouth supports beneficial bacteria.
- Limit sugary foods and drinks that feed harmful
- Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables to support oral bacterial diversity.
It turns out your mouth is more than just the gateway to your stomach. We now know it’s also the guardian of your cognitive health.
And another thing…
Here’s what else we’ve covered this week in Living Well Daily…
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Recent research reveals that natural sunlight exposure within the first hour of waking could be one of the most effective ways to improve sleep quality at night.
P.S. Can you PLAY your way to better brain health? Here’s what the science says.
Source:
E, J., Corbett, A., Ballard, C., Vauzour, D., Creese, B., Winyard, P. G., Jones, A. M., & Vanhatalo, A. (2024). Oral microbiome and nitric oxide biomarkers in older people with mild cognitive impairment and APOE4 genotype. PNAS Nexus, 4(1).
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
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