Scientists say the color of your tongue could be an early warning sign of cancer or diabetes. Harvard researchers say your tongue can actually reveal information about your health, including appearance, color and even texture. In a new paper, scientists concluded that the tongue should have a round and symmetrical appearance. The tongue may also have a white coating, the study says. “It is usually a light pink color, although some may have purple or brown pigmentation in African, Asian and Mediterranean populations,” the study says.
The study also concludes that the color of your tongue depends on what you eat, The Olive Press reports. Researchers say this is because bumps on the tongue, known as papillae, absorb the colors and residue of what we eat and drink. For example, curries containing lots of turmeric can make your tongue turn yellow, while sweets can make your tongue turn blue.
The study says there are three primary colors that act as warning signals:
BROWN OR BLACK
She says: “A brown or black tongue indicates a condition called ‘black hairy tongue’, which occurs when the papillae become too large. “Normally, these little bumps don’t have much room to grow, but if they do they can trap bacteria and colored food mixtures, leaving a brown or black tint.”
It is said that this can be caused by smoking, using antibiotics, dry mouth, excessive coffee or tea consumption and poor oral hygiene.
WHITE SPOTTS AND WOUNDS
Harvard scientists found that white patches or sores on your tongue are a sign of yeast overgrowth. It can be caused by conditions such as diabetes, AIDS, antibiotic use, cancer treatments, denture use, smoking or dry mouth.
In severe cases, sores may be a sign of oral cancer. Likewise if they become yellow, red and painful.
BRIGHT RED
This could mean you have B12 deficiency, scarlet fever, or strep throat. But the last two conditions will be accompanied by a red rash.
