All articles tagged with #bad breath
A Kagoshima University professor emeritus explains most bad breath originates in the mouth, with olfactory fatigue keeping people from noticing it; halitosis can be genuine, pseudo, or halitophobia, and testing helps determine it; the remedy is simple: clean the mouth—especially the tongue and spaces between teeth—to remove bacteria and debris; good oral hygiene supports overall health.
GLP-1 weight-loss drugs like Ozempic can cause dry mouth and bad breath, with hydration and saliva flow reducing bacterial growth linked to halitosis. Experts note dehydration and ketosis can contribute to breath changes, and suggest drinking water and sugar-free gum as practical fixes. The issue has even influenced consumer behavior, helping drive a rise in sales for gum and “functional snacks” (e.g., Hershey’s Ice Breakers and protein bars) as markets ride the trend.
Experts say tongue cleaning should be part of daily oral hygiene because biofilm collects on the tongue and can contribute to bad breath and potentially gum disease or other health issues. Use a metal tongue scraper when possible, replace tools every three months, and clean the tongue twice daily with gentle strokes. Avoid overcleaning to prevent tongue injury; mouthwash can freshen breath (prefer alcohol-free). Check the tongue’s sides for signs of oral cancer and seek professional advice if anythingLooks unusual. Moderation is key as research on the oral microbiome continues.
Nicole Kidman said on Las Culturistas that bad breath is a dealbreaker for on-screen kisses, recounting a moment on Big Little Lies where she told Alexander Skarsgård to ditch his falafel breath before a kiss and stressing that mouth taste and smell matter when leaning in.
Nicole Kidman revealed on the Las Culturistas podcast that a kiss with her Big Little Lies co-star Alexander Skarsgård was ruined by his falafel-fueled bad breath, a dealbreaker she says would make her recoil; she even told him to skip falafel before kissing and noted Rihanna smells great as an aside.
Months after finalizing her 19‑year marriage to Keith Urban, Nicole Kidman told Las Culturistas that bad breath is a deal‑breaker for any potential partner, even recalling Alexander Skarsgård’s falafel moment before kissing scenes in Big Little Lies. She says she’s focused on family and work (Chanel duties and Scarpetta) while dating chatter swirls—TMZ linked Paul Salem as a suitor, though Page Six says she’s single.
Morning bad breath, or halitosis, can be caused by poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, and certain foods like garlic and dairy products. Dr. Ferakh Hamid advises that lingering food particles and plaque can lead to bad breath, while Dr. Safia Debar explains that reduced saliva flow can also contribute to the issue. Maintaining good oral hygiene and being mindful of your diet can help combat bad breath, but it's important to consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Kelly Clarkson's recent weight loss from a high-protein diet has led to bad breath, reportedly due to decreased saliva production and increased ammonia from the digestive process. Sources claim that her breath is affecting her personal life, including her attempts to find love after her split from her ex-manager husband, Brandon Blackstock, in 2020.
A study published in mSystems reveals that the interaction between two common oral bacteria, Fusobacterium nucleatum and Streptococcus gordonii, leads to the production of a chemical compound, methyl mercaptan, which is a major cause of bad breath. The researchers found that S. gordonii prompts F. nucleatum to produce more methyl mercaptan by releasing a substance called ornithine, which activates F. nucleatum's methionine salvage pathway. Understanding this bacterial interaction could aid in developing treatments for bad breath and preventing associated periodontal disease.
Scientists have discovered that eating yogurt, particularly whole-milk plain yogurt, is the most effective way to neutralize garlic breath. The protein in yogurt counteracts the sulphur-based compounds that cause the lingering odor. Other foods such as lettuce, apples, milk, and mint have also been found to combat garlic breath. The study suggests that a high-protein formulation could be marketed as a breath deodorizer. Greek yogurt, with its higher protein content, is considered the most effective food to freshen breath after consuming garlic.
Tongue scrapers are metal or plastic devices used to clean the surface of the tongue, removing bacteria, food particles, and dead cells. While there is limited scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness, tongue scraping can temporarily improve tongue cleanliness and taste. The American Dental Association does not currently endorse tongue scrapers, but using one in addition to regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits can be beneficial. To use a tongue scraper correctly, gently scrape the tongue three to five times, avoiding excessive pressure to prevent irritation. Tongue scrapers should be rinsed with soap and water after each use, and can be soaked in a mixture of water and hydrogen peroxide for disinfection.
Tongue scrapers are metal or plastic devices used to clean the surface of the tongue, removing bacteria, food particles, and dead cells. While there is limited scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness, tongue scraping can help improve taste and reduce bad breath. The American Dental Association does not currently endorse tongue scrapers, but using one alongside regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits can be beneficial. To use a tongue scraper correctly, go up and down the tongue three to five times with gentle pressure, avoiding the back of the tongue to prevent gag reflex. Rinse and disinfect the scraper after each use, and incorporate it into your oral hygiene routine as desired.
Matt Damon revealed that a kissing scene with Scarlett Johansson in the film We Bought a Zoo was "hell" because Johansson had eaten an onion sandwich during lunch break, causing her breath to smell. Damon jokingly made fun of her breath but clarified that it actually smelled like roses. Damon and Johansson's kissing scene was part of a discussion about whether it's right to tell someone they have bad breath. Damon also shared that he regrets turning down the lead role in Avatar, which would have earned him around $250 million.
Dr. Megan Rossi, a gut health doctor, has revealed that an apple is more effective than chewing gum for eliminating garlic breath, which can persist for almost a day. Garlic's main ingredient, allicin, has been medically proven to boost the immune system and help fight viruses. However, the by-products of garlic are absorbed into the bloodstream and carried to the lungs, causing bad breath. The plant chemicals in apples, including quercetin, interact with the sulfur compounds in garlic, deodorizing the odor. Rossi also recommended mint, parsley, spinach, and lettuce to eliminate garlic breath.
Dr. Megan Rossi, a gut health doctor, suggests eating an apple to get rid of bad breath caused by garlic, as it deodorizes the breath by interacting with sulphur compounds in garlic. She also recommends leaving chopped garlic aside for 10 minutes before cooking with it so more allicin, an active ingredient that supports the immune system, can be released. Other foods that can freshen up breath include mint, parsley, spinach, and lettuce. Despite the risk of smelly breath, Dr. Megan says garlic's health benefits are worth it.