New Research Suggests That Picking Your Nose May Make You More Likely To Develop Alzheimer’s Disease
Picking your nose isn’t just a frowned-upon habit. According to a new study published in the journal Biomolecules, it also could potentially elevate your risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Beta-amyloid protein is thought to play a role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease, leading to the progressive loss of memory and cognitive functions.
Recent findings suggest that this protein might actually form in the brain as a protective response against germs entering through the nasal passage. In other words, when people put unwashed fingers in their noses.
In turn, the study’s research team proposed that the presence of neuroinflammation in Alzheimer’s disease could be partly attributed to pathogens infiltrating the brain via the olfactory system.
“There is even some evidence to suggest that beta-amyloid may have antibacterial properties as a defense mechanism against microbial infections in the brain,” the study authors wrote.
The study highlights that infections caused by viruses, fungi, and bacteria are linked to Alzheimer’s disease. It details how these pathogens can maintain persistent, latent, or chronic infections in body parts like the nasal epithelium.
They can remain in these areas for a long time without showing any clear symptoms. However, when they make their way into the brain, they can lead to harmful effects.
“The olfactory system represents a plausible route for pathogen entry, given its direct anatomical connection to the brain and its involvement in the early stages of AD,” the authors explained.
According to the Mayo Clinic, around 6.5 million individuals aged 65 and above in the United States are living with Alzheimer’s disease. Over 70% of these patients are also 75 and older.
insta_photos – stock.adobe.com – illustrative purposes only, not the actual person
This condition, which progressively impairs cognitive function, is the leading cause of dementia.
It’s estimated that Alzheimer’s disease accounts for up to 70% of the 55 million cases of dementia worldwide.
According to the National Institute on Aging, the disease’s origins may be linked to a mix of factors, including changes in the brain due to aging, genetics, environmental influences, and lifestyle choices.
Now, nose-picking falls under the umbrella of lifestyle choices, and if you engage in this habit, the research team is advising you to stop– even if picking your nose appears to aid you in breathing more comfortably by removing dried mucus.
“It is essential to note that the temporary relief obtained from nose picking is not a substitute for proper nasal hygiene, which involves regular cleaning and maintenance of the nasal passages through gentle methods such as saline nasal rinses or blowing the nose,” the study authors said.
“One of the lessons learned from COVID-19 is the value of hand hygiene through frequent hand washing and the use of hand sanitizers, and we suggest these routine hygienic procedures be mandatory routine for the incurable nose-picker.”
To read the study’s complete findings, visit the link here.
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