Bad breath — whether after a meal heavily seasoned with garlic or for other reasons — can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. But don't worry, you don't need to resort to chewing gum (which often contains plastic!) to freshen your breath. Here we explore some common ingredients to avoid and all-natural solutions to keep your mouth fresh and healthy.
Ingredients to Avoid for Fresh Breath
1. Artificial Colors - Does your toothpaste have color? Often, these colors are not natural and can be harmful to your health. Artificial colors like Yellow #5 have been associated with problems such as hypersensitivity and allergies. Opting for a toothpaste with natural ingredients is an excellent first step towards a healthier mouth.
2. Artificial Sweeteners - Saccharin and aspartame are frequently used in toothpastes to make them sweeter without causing cavities. However, these substances can have adverse effects, such as headaches and even neurological problems. Always choose products without artificial sweeteners.
3. Triclosan - A common antibacterial in oral hygiene products, but it can interfere with the mouth's natural microbiome. This microbiome is crucial for gum health and preventing bad breath. Avoiding unnecessary antibiotics in your oral hygiene products is important for maintaining this balance.
4. Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (SLS) - Present in many hygiene products, SLS is a foaming agent that can cause skin and mucous membrane irritation, as well as promote dry mouth, which can worsen bad breath. Products without SLS are a gentler and healthier choice.
What to Add to Your Routine
Now that we know what to avoid, here are some effective natural solutions to combat bad breath:
1. Oil Pulling - *Oil pulling* is an ancient Ayurvedic medicine technique that helps remove harmful bacteria from the mouth. Simply rinse your mouth with a tablespoon of oil for 5-20 minutes. This daily practice helps remove toxins, protects gums, and promotes a healthier, fresher mouth. You can see how to do it here.
2. Fennel seeds - Fennel seeds are a great natural remedy for bad breath. You can chew them directly or make fennel tea. Fennel has antiseptic properties that fight bacteria in the mouth and also stimulate saliva production, which helps prevent bad breath.
3. Chlorophyll - Chlorophyll acts as a natural deodorant for the body, including the mouth. It helps detoxify the digestive system and neutralizes odors from the inside out. Our detox drops are made with chlorophyll and mint, making them ideal for naturally freshening breath. You can add a few drops to your water for fresher breath and a feeling of cleanliness.
4. Digestive Enzymes - Often, bad breath originates in the digestive system. Digestive enzymes help the body break down food more efficiently, preventing fermentation in the gut that can lead to bacterial growth and bad breath. Adding a digestive enzyme supplement to your diet can improve digestion and contribute to fresher breath.
5. Tongue Scraper - Using a tongue scraper daily can make a big difference. Bacteria and sulfur compounds that cause bad breath accumulate on the tongue while we sleep. The scraper removes these substances, giving you fresher breath instantly. You can see how it's done here.
By avoiding harmful ingredients and adding natural solutions to your oral hygiene routine, you'll be on the right track to fresher breath and a healthier mouth. Don't forget to be consistent, and if you're curious, try our teeth kit that has a little bit of everything for a cleaner mouth and fresher breath every day.
