Surprising Link Between Your Mouth and Your Mood Revealed in New Study

Researchers have found an indication of depression in a slightly unexpected place – the microbiome inside our mouths. The finding opens a new route of inquiry that could lead to novel antidepressant treatments and help other ailments as well.

The human microbiome consists of the millions of microbes that live in and on our bodies. The largest collection of these mostly friendly bugs lies inside our colons where they do everything from our impacting our memory to influencing the expression of genes. A lack of diversity in our gut microbiomes has also been linked to depression.

Now a study led by researchers at New York University has arrived at the same conclusion about depression and the microbiomes in our mouths – the second largest collection of microbes in our bodies.

“Having a better understanding of the relationship between the oral microbiome and depression could not only help us learn about the mechanisms underlying depression, but could contribute to the development of new biomarkers or treatments for mood disorders,” said senior study author Bei Wu.