Did you ever experience waking up in the morning and you feel that there is really something wrong? It’s not that you woke up at the wrong side of the bed or the blinds were pulled back early causing the sun’s rays to shine directly on you, but there is something that really smells fishy and it’s really under the tip of your nose? Yes, bad breaths are a nuisance but there can only be two reasons why you have them: first, bad oral hygiene and second is you have a gastrointestinal problem.

The very first thing that you must learn to realize is that you need good, proper hygiene. The old-age saying "Cleanliness is next to godliness" is no joke. Everything starts with YOU and YOUR HYGIENE and with what you eat. “You are what you eat”, they say. Bad breaths, more often than not, result from bad oral hygiene and if that's the case then all you have to do is simply for you to change your daily oral routine. But if in some other cases breath gum, mints and mouthwashes are not effective and you still have bad breath then the problem must be way deep down in your gastrointestinal tract. But don't worry; all you have to do is to change the diet you are currently in because that is what probably causing you bad breaths in the morning or anytime during the day.

There have been a lot of commercial products that are readily available in the market that addresses to dental problems and some are way too expensive and some aren't really as effective as we thought it would be. So, what are ways in which you can decrease or prevent bad breath that is economical and as effective as the products being commercially sold in the public? So, what are the top best foods to keep that bad breath away?

HERBS

If you had enough with the monotony of chewing menthol gum just to keep bad breath away then herbs might be a better breather for you than changing gum brands. Herbs are readily available, cheaper and a healthier choice. Coriander, Cardamom and Rosemary are just some of the herbs that can help you prevent bad breath. Parsley also helps with oral odor problems. Fresh herbs are more preferable and you can either chew them raw or add them to your favorite hot drink or to your favorite dish. So you see, you don’t have to look too far to get that refreshing breath you’ve always wanted – what you need might just be found right at your herb garden.

YOGURT

Yogurt and other milk products are rich in Vitamin D. Vitamin D prevents creating an environment for bacteria to grow. The increased bacterial growth in the intestines causes gastrointestinal problems which are often times being reflected with bad breath. Just be sure to buy yogurt that is filled with active cultures of lactobacilli (not sweetened yogurt) that would counteract your intestinal problem. Also, Yogurt according to studies showed reduced level of Sulfites in the mouth, which causes odor in the oral cavity. Now, not only could it be your favorite snack at home but it could be your best partner in fighting off bad breath.

FIBER RICH FRUITS OR VEGETABLES

Just because you know one of the reasons for bad breath is eating food doesn't mean that you don't have to eat anything at all. On the Contrary, Eating crunchy, fiber rich foods are recommended. Apples, Carrots and Celery are just a few among the many fruits and vegetables selections that will help fight off bad odor. Being good and perfect in brushing your teeth is not bad breath-free guarantee. Chances are, there are still some lodged within the nooks and crannies that will later on result to plaques and gum problems. Eating crunchy foods will help increase saliva, which lubricates the oral mucosa and wash off the plaques lurking around. Just keep in mind that if plaque is present.

VITAMIN C RICH FOODS

Vitamin C has proven to decrease the chances of mouth problems such as bad breaths. It can also help prevent inflammation of the gums or gingivitis. But since we are talking of making it a healthier lifestyle in the long run, it is best if you can get Vitamin C from real sources (from citrus fruits such as oranges, apples, melons and berries) rather than taking it in from supplements. Supplements are not recommended since it is causes gastrointestinal upset which increases the gravity of bad breath.

WATER

It's just not water but THE WATER! Water has many uses and one of which is to wash any impurities we have, inside and out. Also, Water has fluoride which is responsible for the integrity of the teeth, although some water does not have this so it's better to choose water bottles that has fluoride in it. Always keep yourself hydrated at all times and keep a water bottle at hand.

Having the right stuff to eat and do as a routine will get you a long way. Remember, taking care of yourself is a sign of loving yourself. Having a good oral hygiene does not only reflect good outer appearance but also a healthier inner side of you. Just keep in mind that if one regimen is not working out for you, try the next best thing and that is going au naturale. So now that you know the top foods in preventing bad breath, it's all up to you now to try them. Just remember that the two main reasons for bad breath are bad oral hygiene and an underlying gastrointestinal problem. Once you've known where your problem is, start from there and try these foods to combat bad breath.

It is always important to have the drive within to change the lifestyle you are used to. All you need to do is to slowly take one step at a time and do it at your own pace. Next thing you know it, you are on your way to cleaner, fresher breath.

Sources
health.msn.com
cbsnews.com
voices.yahoo.com