Want to Avoid Bad Breath? Avoid These Foods!

 We all brush and floss our teeth... Right? well, I guess that goes without saying.  

 Have you ever thought about what hidden culprits cause bad breath and tooth staining?  To prevent halitosis (bad breath) avoiding these foods can help:

1. Dark Liquids - Although the enamel on your teeth is the hardest substance in the human body, it is not flat and smooth. Your tooth enamel contains microscopic pits and ridges that can hold particles of food and drink. Pigments from dark-colored drinks/foods can become embedded in those cracks and ridges and if the proper steps are not taken (brushing regularly) this can cause permanent staining on your teeth.
2. Onions and garlic - These are hard to avoid since they are flavor-enhancing ingredients in almost all foods. When you eat garlic/onions you produce several sulfur-containing gases. Allyl methyl sulfide is a "sticky" molecule, it adheres very easily to the tissues in your mouth and that's why your breath smells funky.
3. High-Protein Foods- Bacteria love glomming on to proteins, so high-protein foods contribute to halitosis. The top contenders are fish, red meat, and beans. Hold the protein and swap out meat courses for vegetarian options a few times a week. It might change your life...uh, in terms of bad breath!
4. Sugary food is another culprit.  Sugar, especially when eaten before bedtime, causes bacteria and can erode your teeth and leave you with a foul taste in the morning.  For those of you who like a bowl of ice cream in the evening, just make sure you brush and rinse afterward!

Keep Smiling!