Mouthwash may mess with your blood sugar, new study suggests

NCT ID NCT07172009

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Plymouth Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This study looks at whether using chlorhexidine mouthwash before eating carbs changes blood sugar levels. Researchers think killing mouth bacteria might interfere with early carbohydrate digestion. About 45 healthy adults will rinse with either chlorhexidine or a placebo, then eat white bread, and have their blood sugar measured over two hours.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: chlorhexidine mouthwash
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a link between oral bacteria and blood sugar control, possibly informing future diabetes prevention strategies.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study in healthy people, so results may not apply to those with diabetes. The effect, if any, might be small or not clinically meaningful.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

glucose metabolism disease

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

GLUCOSE METABOLISM DISORDERS (INCLUDING DIABETES MELLITUS)

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Plymouth
RECRUITING

Plymouth, Devon, PL4 8AA, United Kingdom

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