Foods to promote fresher breath
We all know which foods to avoid for fresher breath during the day, but have you considered which foods you should stock up on instead?
Whether we’re at home or at work, no one wants to be suffering from halitosis (bad breath) and while we often know which foods can cause it, not as many people are aware of foods which can actually help prevent it.
Experts promote plain yogurt as a great food to help keep bad breath at bay. The ‘good’ bacteria found in probiotic yogurt reduces the levels of hydrogen sulphide in the mouth, the agent that causes halitosis. By overpowering this ‘bad’ bacteria, any odours are neutralised, and there is the added bonus that yogurt is a much healthier snack than many items you’ll find in the canteen or at a vending machine.
Crunchy foods are ideal for helping prevent bad breath, and these are also a healthy snack alternative. Apples contain polyphenols, which break down smelly compounds found in foods such as garlic, as well as promoting the productive of saliva which helps rinse and clean the mouth. Chopped carrots and celery will do the same job, creating saliva and washing away some of the bacteria that causes bad breath. You can also produce salvia by chewing gum with xylitol. If your mouth is dry, it will be causing bad breath, but gum will help stimulate saliva and reverse the problem.
One of the best ways to stop bacteria gathering in the mouth is by drinking plenty of water, so try and always have a bottle or glass on hand to rinse the mouth and push away leftover food that might be leaving behind a smell. If you prefer something with more flavour, unsweetened tea is also a great option, particularly green tea. Rich in antioxidants, tea has those polyphenols which help neutralise bad breath. Tea is also good for the digestive system.
As well as eating all the right foods and avoiding certain others, you can help keep your breath fresh by brushing for two minutes twice a day, including your tongue, and flossing once a day, just a normal dental health routine.
