When we see our little precious babies picking their nose, we automatically stop them - because its just gross, right?
Well, according to a new study, snot is actually full of good bacteria that helps teeth and gum health (we're serious)
The research says that there is something called salivary mucins in snot, which protects teeth from a type of bacteria that’s responsible for causing cavities.
So basically nose picking is actually good for your child, as it may actually stop bacteria from sticking onto their teeth - this doesn't make it any less gross, though.
In fact, the people behind the study are hoping to create a synthetic mucus (fake snot) that would be marketed in the form of chewing gum or toothpaste.
Katharina Ribbeck, who co-authored the study told ozy.com that synthetic mucin might be a "better alternative to antibiotics as it prevents infection."
Apparently, there was also some evidence that this mucus could in fact protect people from stomach ulcers, respiratory infections and even HIV.
According to Austrian lung specialist, as reported by Kidspot, "people who pick their noses are healthy, happier and probably better in tune with their bodies."
The specialist called for the social stigma that comes with nose picking to be abolished, based on the fact that, in theory, it could save lives.
“In terms of the immune system, the nose is a filter in which a great deal of bacteria are collected, and when this mixture arrives in the intestines it works just like a medicine,” he explained.
“And eating the dry remains of what you pull out is a great way of strengthening the body’s immune system. Medically it makes great sense and is a perfectly natural thing to do."
Basically, next time you see your little one digging for gold, let them be - you'll be doing them a favour.
