There's a certain bacteria . . . a type of Chlamydia . . . that's been linked to dementia, and some experts think picking your nose is what causes it.
Researchers at Griffith University in Australia have shown it can get into your brain by entering through your nose. When they tested it on mice, their brain cells responded by producing something called "amyloid beta proteins."
Basically, they're little things that clump together and form plaques in your brain that mess with neurons. And they've been linked to Alzheimer's disease before.
They think the bacteria can bypass your bloodstream and get to your brain through your olfactory nerve, which is what gives you your sense of smell.
They say more research is needed, and they're planning a follow-up study. But the researcher who led the study says it's probably a good idea to pick your nose less. And plucking nose hairs isn't a good idea either.
Source: Perth Now / GU
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