Halitosis or bad breath is usually caused by foods you eat, underlying health problems or poor dental hygiene. However, certain food sources can help alleviate halitosis by killing the bacteria or masking odor in your mouth. If you currently eat a healthy diet and take care of your teeth, visit your dentist for professional advice.
Vegetables and Fruits
Eating carrots, apples, pears and celery stimulates saliva production in your mouth, which aids in ridding your oral cavity of odor-causing plaque. Other vegetables and fruits with high fiber amounts also work, as these sources increases saliva production because your body takes longer to digest them. Dead skin cells accumulate on the inside of your cheeks, gums and tongue. These cells cause odor in your mouth as they decompose. Saliva rinses away bacteria and plaque buildup to prevent mouth odors.
Herbs and Spices
The antiseptic properties of spearmint, cinnamon, rosemary and eucalyptus can aid in eliminating halitosis by killing odor-causing bacteria in your mouth. You can chew fresh herb and spice sources or steep them to make tea. Cinnamon sticks or tea are beneficial in reducing the halitosis-causing odor. Besides masking the smell, cinnamon can also kill odor-causing bacteria. Fresh rosemary, basil and parsley also work to freshen your breath and decrease halitosis odor.
Foods Rich in Vitamin C and Vitamin D
Consuming substantial amounts of vitamin D daily may help prevent halitosis. Yogurt with active cultures is beneficial for reducing odor-causing bacteria in your mouth. Vitamin C-rich foods create an environment where bacteria fail to accumulate. Gum disease and periodontitis are often the cause of bad breath.
Water
Dry mouth often causes bad breath. It is important to drink water because keeping your mouth moist can inhibit bacteria growth and subsequent bad breath. Coffee, alcohol and soda can make halitosis worse because of their drying effects. If your condition persists, speak with your dentist or health provider about prescription medications or artificial saliva agents to keep your mouth moist.
References
- American Dental Association: Halitosis (Bad Breath)
- MayoClinic.com: Bad Breath
- Health911.com: Bad Breath
- "Dental Erosion: From Diagnosis to Therapy"; Dr. Adrian Lussi; 2006
- HealthGuidance.org: Vitamins for Bad Breath
- CBS News: Foods to Beat Bad Breath
