Bad breath can be an embarrassing and unpleasant issue. While good oral hygiene practices are the primary defence against bad breath, your diet can also play a significant role. Certain foods can help combat stinky breath by neutralising odour-causing compounds and promoting oral health.
“Alcohol can cause bad breath as alcohol has a drying impact on the mouth, it can lead to bad breath. Furthermore, several alcoholic beverages have strong odours that might remain on the breath,” said Dr Aravind M.S (M.D.S), Reader/Associate Professor - Oral Medicine and Maxillofacial Radiology, Amrita School of Dentistry, Kochi. “Bacteria, debris, and dead cells can accumulate on the tongue's surface, resulting in a bad odour. This is particularly true towards the rear of the tongue,” he added.
Apples
Apples are natural breath fresheners. Their crisp texture and high water content help stimulate saliva production, which in turn helps wash away bacteria and food particles responsible for bad breath.
Also read: Bad Breath Can Be A Sign Of Several Health Problems; Here Are The Possible Causes
Yogurt
Yogurt contains probiotics, beneficial bacteria that promote a healthy balance in your mouth's microbiome. A balanced oral microbiome can help reduce the growth of odour-causing bacteria.
Parsley
Parsley is not only a garnish; it's a natural breath freshener. Chewing on a sprig of parsley can help neutralise odours and leave your breath smelling fresher.
Green Tea
Green tea contains polyphenols that have natural antibacterial properties. Drinking unsweetened green tea can help inhibit the growth of odour-causing bacteria in your mouth.
Carrots and Celery
Crunchy vegetables like carrots and celery can act as natural toothbrushes. Their fibrous texture can help clean your teeth and gums, removing food particles and plaque that contribute to bad breath.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon has natural antibacterial properties and a pleasant scent. You can add a pinch of cinnamon to your tea or yoghourt, or chew on a cinnamon stick to freshen your breath.
Ginger
Ginger contains compounds that can help neutralise sulphur compounds responsible for bad breath. You can chew on a small piece of ginger or incorporate it into your meals.
Also read: From Digestion To Immunity: 7 Amazing Health Benefits Of Drinking Buttermilk
Strawberries
Strawberries contain malic acid, a natural astringent that can help remove stains from teeth and promote better oral hygiene. They also have a fresh and sweet flavour that can naturally freshen your breath.
Additional Tips for Fresh Breath
In addition to incorporating breath-friendly foods into your diet, here are some extra tips to maintain fresh breath:
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain proper saliva production, which is crucial for oral health and combating bad breath.
- Limit Sugary Foods: Sugary foods and drinks can feed odour-causing bacteria, so consume them in moderation.
- Regular Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth regularly to remove food particles and bacteria. Don't forget to clean your tongue, where many odour-causing bacteria reside.
- Visit Your Dentist: Regular dental check-ups are essential for maintaining good oral health. Your dentist can identify and address any underlying issues that may contribute to bad breath.
Combating stinky breath is not only about avoiding odorous foods but also about embracing foods that promote good oral health. By incorporating these breath-freshening foods into your diet and maintaining a proper oral hygiene routine, you can enjoy fresher breath and increased confidence in your daily interactions.