The Effect of Nitrate Supplementation on Tongue Microbiome

The objective of this study is to investigate how the host environment influences microbiome structure. Specifically, the spatial organization of nitrate-metabolizing bacteria that will flourish in high and low salivary nitrate concentrations will be studied.

Inclusion Criteria: * Willing and able to read, understand, and sign the Informed Consent form. * Between the ages of 18 and 65 years * Willing and able to follow the study instructions, restrictions, and dietary supplementation. Exclusion Criteria: * Antibiotic use in the previous 6 months * Individuals requiring prophylactic antibiotics * Acute infectious diseases such as tuberculosis or hepatitis * Oral diseases, including gingivitis, periodontitis, oral cancer, or untreated severe dental caries. * Fixed orthodontic appliances or removable dentures * Soft or hard tissue tumor in the oral cavity * Heavy supra and subgingival calculus * Diagnosed with any systemic inflammatory or infectious disease (e.g., diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, endocrine diseases, inflammatory bowel diseases, rheumatoid arthritis, or other related diseases) * Regular use of prescription medications (any medications for the conditions listed above or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, or steroids) * Current tobacco use, including smoking, chewing, and vaping or marijuana use (within 12 months) * History of alcohol or drug abuse * Dietary supplements, including sports drinks containing high levels of nitrate * Consuming nitrate-rich foods such as beets and leafy greens \>3 times/week * Allergy to ingredients of beetroot juice used in this study. * Individuals \