Prevent Bad Breath with These Foods

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is caused by bacteria inside your mouth as well as in the digestive tract. There are different causes for halitosis but poor dental hygiene and a not properly cleaned tongue are the main ones.

The main advise on people experiencing halitosis is to brush and floss properly. However, the types of food you eat may have a definite effect on increading or decreasing your halitosis symptoms. There are certain foods that prevent halitosis and that is the topic of this article. In general, if you eat foods high in fiber, vitamin C and certain herbs you can prevent bad breath.

Here are some natural foods that you can use to help prevent bad odor in your mouth.

Eat Fiber-Rich Foods

Some of the best natural foods for halitosis are vegetables rich in fiber. Carrot is a great example. Apples, pears and cucumbers are great too. These food help halitosis patients by aiding in saliva secretion. Beets have traditionally used to prevent bad breath.

Eat High-C Foods

Vitamin C-rich foods are helpfult o reduce bacteria in your mouth especially in your gums. Broccoli, oranges, lemons, red bell peppers, berries and melons are all food rich in vitamin C that can be eaten to prevent halitosis.

Herbs and Spices to Prevent Halitosis

There are different herbs and spices to be used in bad breath prevention. Among them, parsley, rosemary, cardamom, spearmint, fennel seeds eucalyptus, and cloves. Teas prepared with these herbs (alone or in combination) are a great way to keep your mouth clean and fresh. Green tea is also helpful in this regard.

Eat Fortified Yogurt

Fortified, sugar-free yogurt is recommended against halitosis by The American Dietetic Association. You can choose low-fat varieties that are rich in vitamin D.

References

• Web MD: Change Your Breath From Bad to Good - http://www.webmd.com/oral-health/guide/change-your-breath-from-bad-to-good
• MSN: Good Taste: Top 5 Foods to Prevent Bad Breath: http://health.msn.com/health-topics/oral-care/good-taste-top-5-foods-to-prevent-bad-breath