Bad breath doesn’t always have to do with your oral hygiene. You can brush twice a day, floss, gargle and do all of the right things but sometimes bad breath still lingers. If you notice that your breath still isn’t fresh, try switching out these foods in your diet.
PROBLEM: Onions & Garlic: Onions and garlic are delicious and a staple part of many people’s diets. They are also both very nutritious and flavorful. Unfortunately, they are also one of the biggest reasons why people have bad breath. When you eat onions or garlic there is a sulfuric compound that causes the bad breath that stays in your body and is expelled when you exhale. If you hare having extreme bad breath issues, it may be a good idea to remove onions and garlic for a few days to see if that’s the root of the problem.
INSTEAD EAT: Cheese & Yogurt: Cheese comes in many forms and can be added to any food to make it instantly more delicious. Both cheese & yogurt can help neutralize the acid in your mouth, which contributes to bad breath. As an added bonus, they also both contain a lot of calcium and vitamin D; both of which are essential to have a healthy mouth. Make sure you choose a healthier cheese and unsweetened yogurt.
PROBLEM: Coffee & Alcohol: Both coffee & alcohol make your mouth more dry causing bacteria to grow more easily. When saliva is reduced, the mouth has a harder time getting rid of the bad breath causing bacteria.
INSTEAD DRINK: Water. Water is essential for good health, good teeth, and fresh smelling breath. Substituting unhealthy drinks with water can make you feel better and get rid of any bad breath issues you may have.
PROBLEM: Junk foods (chips, crackers, cookies): Junk foods cause many problems that lead to bad breath including tooth decay and acid reflux. All junk foods probably can’t be avoided, but they should be eaten in moderation.
INSTEAD EAT: Apples, celery, strawberries, ginger: Crunchy fruits help keep your teeth clean while also providing essential nutrition. Ginger helps calm the stomach and soothe any acid reflux issues.
Dr. Lorraine Burio of Candlewood Dental Care has been treating patients in the New Fairfield, CT area for over twenty-five years. If you have any questions call us at 203-746-1200 or make an appointment here.