The relationship involves kissing and other close contact extending infection risks, including the common cold, mononucleosis, and herpes. A groundbreaking study from Iran demonstrates that depression and anxiety might also spread through kissing.
Depression and anxiety are linked to the release of the stress hormone cortisol, which disrupts delicate bacterial balance in the mouth. Research indicates that the transfer of bacteria between spouses, primarily through kissing, can amount to up to 80 million bacteria per 10-second contact.
This study, published in Exploratory Research and Hypothesis in Medicine, highlights that when one spouse experiences depression or anxiety, the oral microbiota of their partner mirrors theirs. The researchers observed significant increases in depression, anxiety, and sleep difficulties in paired couples where one partner had mental health issues, particularly in women.
spirometers and saliva samples collected during the study revealed that the healthy partner’s populations, including Clostridia, Veillonella, Bacillus, and Lachnospiraceae, showed elevated bacterial levels relative to their partners. Some species of these bacteria may pose harmful effects on health.
The researchers acknowledged limitations in their study, such as underdevelopment of underlying health issues and dietary factors influencing oral bacteria. Some suggest exploring the role of bacteria in other mental or brain-related conditions.
Therapists and researchers have long recognized that mental health struggles can ripple through loved ones. This new study may further emphasize the importance of understanding the impact of bacteria transmitted through kissing, particularly in the oral environment.
Ten others with successful pairs reported challenges in maintaining mental health, mental illnesses, orsleepResting in the study’s six-month follow-up. Other innovative findings drew attention to twin couples who synchronized fluctuations in blood pressure, sleep patterns, heart rate, and reproductive hormones during their的話.
Though the study holds researchers’ attention, effectiveness and long-term goal remain unknown. As mental health concerns persist, alternative approaches to improving communication and modeling healthy relationships are essential. Future studies should focus on other couples who synchronize stem cells, such as heartbeats or sleep patterns.
