But as many foods as there are that cause bad breath, there are also plenty that can help to fight it, leaving your breath much more pleasant.
Apples are a high fiber fruit. They scrub your teeth of plaque and bacteria while you chew them. They also require more chewing than other foods, and therefore stimulate saliva production. Saliva helps to kill oral bacteria, and wash it away (along with lingering food particles and the plaque the apple scrubbed off of your teeth). Less oral bacteria mean less of a chance for odor.
High in Vitamin CStrawberries, berries, melons and citrus fruits are all high in vitamin C. Vitamin C fights stops odor causing bacteria in its tracks and neutralizes odors that would otherwise be produced by garlic and onions.
Leafy greens like spinach, kale, lettuce and collards are not only great for your oral health (full of vitamins and minerals) they can also help keep your breath from becoming foul. Greens keep your internal pH levels balanced, helping to prevent dry mouth, which would otherwise cause bad breath.
Parsley and Basil
Herbs like parsley and basil have all the benefits of leafy greens, with an additional bonus. These herbs contain polyphenols, which break down sulfur compounds. Essentially, they are internal deodorizers.
Yogurts with probiotics, such as Greek yogurts, are filled with live active cultures. They lower hydrogen sulfide compounds (a waste compound of bacteria), which, in turn, reduces foul odors. Just be sure to choose lower sugar varieties.
Green TeaGreen tea is high in polyphenols which, like those found in basil and parsley, breaks down sulfur compounds, eliminating bad breath. Be careful how much you consume though, as these can stain teeth.
Drinking plain old water can help to keep your breath fresh. Water keeps you hydrated, which keeps your saliva production in top shape. And saliva is your body's natural defense against bacteria, containing enzymes that kill them. The less bacteria in your mouth, the better your breath will be.
By eating certain foods, you can ensure that not only is your mouth healthier, your breath will be much more pleasant. You can still enjoy foods that might cause bad breath, but just be sure to follow up with those that will keep it clean, and you'll never have to worry about the condition of your breath when you don't have access to gum or your toothbrush.
Please contact our office if you have any questions about your oral health.