
Nutrition Facts with Dr. Greger
Getting Rid of Bad Breath
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, particularly cruciferous ones like broccoli, can effectively combat bad breath caused by sulfur compounds.
- Green tea serves as a powerful mouthwash alternative, significantly reducing bad breath and promoting overall oral health without side effects.
Deep dives
The Connection Between Diet and Bad Breath
A significant link exists between diet and the prevalence of bad breath, with studies indicating that individuals consuming fewer fruits and vegetables have a higher likelihood of experiencing halitosis. The breakdown of sulfur-containing amino acids, particularly from animal protein sources, generates foul-smelling gases, but certain compounds found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli can help mitigate these odors. Chewing on broccoli may provide a temporary solution by attaching to and neutralizing the volatile sulfur compounds responsible for the unpleasant smells, unlike common breath mints that merely mask the odor. Therefore, incorporating more plant-based foods, especially cruciferous vegetables, into the diet can serve as both a preventive measure and a natural remedy for bad breath.