FOODS THAT CAN HELP BAD BREATH

If that burger with raw onions that you enjoyed on your lunch break is keeping your co-workers away from your desk, it probably has something to do with your breath.

Your dentist explains that garlic and onions will stay in your system up to 72 hours after digestion, as they will travel through your bloodstream into your lungs. That means that those around you are going to get a whiff of your meal for the next couple of days.

Thankfully, there are some foods that you can enjoy that can actually mask the odor until you can get to your toothbrush.

Green tea is a remarkable antioxidant that contains catechin. This powerful ingredient can help ward off odor causing bacteria while improving your overall health.

The oils in herbs and spices can work wonders for bacteria caused from odorous foods. Parsley, coriander, cardamom, rosemary, tarragon, cilantro, cinnamon, spearmint and of course, peppermint can all help tame the odors that are making others turn away in fear.

Yogurt is loaded with healthy bacteria and those same probiotics can actually help overpower the bad bacteria that cause your foul-smelling breath. Keep it in the fridge at the office or stop by a convenience store for a bite of this bad breath reducing food.

Fruits and veggies help keep your waistline in check, but can also work wonders for bad breath caused by odorous foods. According to Web MD, pears, apples, celery, carrots, and cucumbers help with saliva production acting as a bacteria rinse. Berries, oranges, melons and other fruits that are loaded with Vitamin C, which can also combat bad breath and help fight gum disease.

Nuts are a healthy snack for your waistline and your teeth. Fiber rich nuts, including almonds, walnuts, and pistachios can be likened to miniature toothbrushes that get rid of the bacteria that causes temporary halitosis.

Sugarless gum helps wake up your salivary glands. Not only does it mask the odor, but it also rinses away bacteria and plaque that leads to tooth decay and gum disease. Pop a sugarless breath mint and you can breathe a sigh of relief, at least for an hour or two.

Drink lots of water, as it is good for your body and your teeth and gums. Water rinses away the odor and food particles while keeping your mouth moist.

Of course, fresh breath begins and ends with good oral hygiene that includes brushing twice and flossing once each day. Regular checkups with your dentist should also be included in your oral health care regime.

If nothing seems to work for your bad breath, there could be a more serious issue that should be investigated by your dentist. Schedule an appointment today and get rid of your chronic halitosis once and for all.

January 15, 2015 | Uncategorized Back to Blog