The body produces approximately 50 ounces of saliva everyday. But did you know that your saliva can tell some things about your health?
It also has many uses and the most important is it acts as a natural disinfectant. Added to that is it maintains prevents tooth decay, maintains the health of your gums and wash away food particles.
As for the clues your saliva can provide with regards things that is going on in your body. Know these signs:
White and Clumpy
A white and clumpy saliva can indicate an oral infection. Thrush which is a yeast infection, is caused by the candida albicans fungus.
It is not that common in healthy adults, but people who have diabetes, are more vulnerable since sugars in the saliva can lead to yeast growth. Your doctor can prescribe an anti-fungal medication that you can swish in your mouth to help clear up the infection.
Dry mouth can be the side effect of your medication such as decongestants and antihistamines. It also comes as people age and more medications are needed. To combat this effect, keep a healthy dental hygiene to avoid cavities.
Too Much Saliva
Research shows that pregnant women produce more saliva. This may be because of too much hormones or just a side effect of feeling nauseated. There are no potentially serious risks, except spitting at your friends when you talk.
You can chew a piece of gum or hard candy to help you swallow all that extra spit.
A dentist can quickly assess your saliva’s pH balance with a solution or a spit strip. If the pH is off, bacteria can multiply in the nooks and crannies of your teeth. Also acidic saliva can also erode your teeth and may cause cavities.
Bitter or Sour
Bitter or sour saliva may indicate a reflux. This condition may allow stomach acid to go up into the throat, therefore producing telltale flavor.
Aside from a sour taste in the throat and mouth, the most common symptom of reflux is heartburn.
Contains RNA Molecules
Saliva tests can provide a lot of information about a person’s particular hormone and genetic makeup. From cancer to diabetes, saliva holds some promise to diagnostic tools, for diseases much like a vial of blood.
It can also provide your doctor with some insight in the circadian rhythms for better eating, eating and weight loss recommendations.