Six Foods to Freshen Your Breath and Banish Bad Breath

Introduction: In addition to practicing good oral hygiene, a person's diet can also affect their breath. Bad breath can lead to low self-esteem and make conversations with others awkward. Fresh breath not only makes people feel pleasant and boosts confidence, but it can also improve judgment. The following 6 foods can help freshen breath.

1. Green Tea

Green tea contains a large amount of fluoride, which combines with the hydroxyapatite in teeth to have an anti-acid and anti-cavity effect; catechins can reduce the *Streptococcus mutans* that causes cavities, while also removing bad breath. Depending on personal preference, you can drink 2 to 5 cups of green tea a day.

2. Yogurt

A study published in the *Times of India* showed that drinking yogurt daily can reduce the level of hydrogen sulfide in the mouth, as this substance is the main culprit causing bad breath. Drinking yogurt appropriately can also prevent the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth, reducing the risk of gum disease or plaque.

Homemade Yogurt

3. Mint

Mint leaves contain monoterpenes, which can enter the bloodstream and reach the lungs to freshen breath. After a heavy meal of fish and meat, drinking a cup of unsweetened mint tea can help cut the grease and relieve bloating. If you are troubled by the smell of onions or garlic and are hesitant to speak, it is recommended to chew 2 to 3 fresh mint leaves to help remove the odor.

4. Celery

Celery helps eliminate mouth odor, especially the smell of smoke. For better results, you can chew celery or steep it in water to drink.

Stir-fried Celery with Lily Bulbs and Walnuts

5. Wasabi

When eating Japanese sashimi or sushi, wasabi is always served, mainly for its antibacterial properties. In addition to pairing it with sashimi, you can also mix a small spoonful of wasabi with a little soy sauce to make a dipping sauce for boiled seafood, which can neutralize the fishy odor.

6. Shiitake Mushrooms

In recent years, shiitake mushrooms have not only become a popular food for boosting the immune system, but research since 2000 has also found that they are beneficial for protecting teeth. This is because the lentinan in shiitake mushrooms can inhibit bacteria in the mouth and reduce plaque.

Steamed Quail Eggs with Shiitake Mushrooms