The Best Foods To Help You Fight Bad Breath Naturally
Which foodstuffs help to fight smelly breath?
One of the main ways we combat bad breath is by maintaining a good oral hygiene regime. Brushing twice a day, for at least two minutes with the right toothbrush and toothpaste. Visiting our St John’s Wood dental clinic regularly is also important, to keep on top of everyday hygiene and to spot any potential issues early on.
Did you also know there are additional natural ways you can keep your breath fresh? The food you consume plays a big part in your breath freshness.
Various foods battle nasty breath by helping to clean the mouth and fill it full of natural ‘good’ bacteria and nutrients which help maintain a fresh and healthy oral environment.
Here are some of the best foods and drinks to help you fight bad breath naturally:
Water
Doesn’t it feel like water is the answer to so many healthy problems? Headaches, bad skin, weight loss, and now bad breath! It isn’t much of a surprise as our body is made up of around 60% water, so every single aspect of our body relies on it to run efficiently. The reason it helps with bad breath is because hydration makes a difference with our oral health. We have to be hydrated to produce lots of saliva which naturally combats nasty bacteria. Drinking water regularly also helps to wash down food particles that attach to the teeth.
Celery
Celery and similar crunchy, fibrous foods are like natural toothbrushes. They break down plaque when you are eating, and they are naturally full of vitamins and minerals which help your oral health over time. A diet too low in fresh fruit and vegetables is also thought to increase your risk of oral cancer.
Lemon
Although eating lots of lemon is bad for the teeth because of the acid, in moderate amounts it is great for bad breath because it aids in killing off nasty oral bacteria. A little squeezed on salad or into a glass of water is great for fresh breath, and it naturally cleanses the digestive system which again helps with bad breath because it helps combat nasty gases caused by a sluggish digestive tract.
Green Tea
This mild and delicious antioxidant drink provides your body with plenty of benefits, all whilst freshening your breath on the way down. It does this by making it more difficult for bacteria to get stuck to your teeth. When combined with a squeeze of fresh lemon it makes a fantastic tonic for fighting bad breath.
Rosemary & Cinnamon
This tasty herb releases natural oils when chewed which freshen up the breath. Cinnamon offers the same benefits as well, as long as it is real cinnamon, not cinnamon flavoured desserts or sweets. Chew on rosemary or cinnamon after a meal for a natural oral freshen up.
Yogurt
Live yogurt is great for bad breath because it fights ‘nasty’ bacteria and helps to balance the PH levels in the mouth.
Is Your Breath Persistently Bad? It Might Be Time To Visit Us At Abbey Road Dental in NW8
If you find that your breath is persistently bad, despite brushing twice a day and practicing great oral hygiene, it might be time to pay our local dental practice a visit. Chronic bad breath can be a sign of underlying oral health issues like gum disease or an abscess. Persistent bad breath can also be a sign of deeper health issues within the body, so it is important to seek advice as soon as possible to find the root of the cause. If you would like to make an appointment at our friendly NW8 clinic, please call 02076241603 and we will be more than happy to help you.
