Effect of chronic tobacco-betel-lime "quid" chewing on human salivary secretions
1980
Quid chewers in India use a combination of tobacco, betel and lime; salivary rates of flow of habitual chewers and non-chewers were compared by mechanical and chemical stimulation. Salivary flow was greater for chewers on chemical stimulation, but not on mechanical. Amylase and potassium levels were significantly lower and sodium insignificantly lower in chewers, possibly due to dilution effects of increased saliva flow and resulted in decreased enzyme and electrolyte content. Duration of chewing was more significant than amount chewed. Causes of increased flow were conjectured to be quid content, salivary gland hyperplasia or enlargement of the masticating muscles.
Show more [+] Less [-]AGROVOC Keywords
Bibliographic information
This bibliographic record has been provided by National Agricultural Library