Oral hygiene is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. Apart from brushing twice daily, we also need to keep our mouths fresh for the whole day. It is very embarrassing to be caught with bad breath. According to a report by the Cleveland Clinic, the main cause of bad breath is poor oral hygiene. However, it can be caused by other reasons as well, like dry mouth, heartburn, or diseases like cavities.
The bacteria from the leftover food in the mouth can also create an unpleasant smell if not cleaned well. But we cannot carry a toothbrush or mouthwash everywhere. The food you are consuming has a crucial role in oral health. According to WebMD, garlic, onions, coffee, and alcohol are some food items that contribute to bad breath. It is also important to drink water frequently to flush out the bits of food that bacteria feed on.
So, if you also want to keep bad breath at bay for a long time, here are five foods that can help:
Green Tea
As discussed earlier, beverages like coffee and alcohol can cause bad breath. But on the other hand, green and black tea can give you a positive result. According to a report by Mint Dental, teas hydrate the mouth and promote the production of saliva, which improves breath. The antioxidants present in green tea also kill the odour-causing bacteria.
Sugarless Gum
If you want results quickly, then this is the best way to get fresh breath. Chewing gum helps remove food stuck in the mouth. According to WebMD, it also increases the production of saliva, which helps wash away the leftover particles. Just make sure to pick up sugarless gums, as the flavoured ones can cause tooth decay and worsen bad breath.
Herbs And Spices
Instead of chewing gum, if you want a natural alternative, then herbs and spices are best for you. Cloves, anise, fennel seeds, parsley, and spearmint are some great options to get rid of bad breath. You can also rinse your mouth with water infused with herbs. Chewing herbs and spices not only removes the odour but also gives you fresh breath.
Yoghurt
According to a report by the International And American Associations For Dental Research, eating three ounces of yoghurt a day over six weeks lowers the odour-causing sulphur compounds in the mouth. Along with dental hygiene, it is also good for gut health. Prefer sugar-free yoghurt for the best results.
Raw Fruits And Vegetables
Fresh produce like fruits and vegetables is rich in fibre, which contributes to keeping the mouth clean. Adding spinach, apples, celery, carrots, etc. to your regular diet helps in the production of saliva, which prevents the growth of bacteria in the mouth. But these food items must be consumed in their raw form to get the desired result.