Nothing puts a damper on a hot date more than bad breath. Don’t worry if you’ve forgotten your breath mints or gum, try these 7 unlikely foods so your mouth will stay fresh, no matter what you’re doing.
1. Black Tea
Photo by Jocelyn Hsu
Black Tea contains polyphenols that stop the growth of bacteria and decrease the amount of bacterial byproducts, aka it’ll make your breath smell better. The hydration factor from tea is also key: dry mouths let gross-smelling bacteria thrive and prevent saliva production. Take a look at this guide to get your tea love affair started.
2. Yogurt
Photo by Justin Schuble
The benefits from yogurt go on and on. Researchers found that the vitamin D and calcium in yogurt help decrease mouth bacteria. Yogurt also lowers the level of odorous sulfide compounds (that make your breath smell bad). Eat one or two servings (or more, we won’t judge) of yogurt a day for best results
3. Strawberries
Photo by Liana Lis
The vitamin C in strawberries fights bacteria and germs, which helps keep your breath smelling fresh. As an extra bonus, vitamin C also fights gum disease and gingivitis, so you’ll have an extra healthy mouth. Maybe dip those strawberries in chocolate, or if you’re lazy like me, dip them in Nutella.
4. Parsley
Photo by Elise Bauer
You know that sprig of green stuff on your plate with dinner? Well, apparently you’re supposed to eat it to freshen your breath. Parsley contains chlorophyll, which may help to better your breath. Try other herbs, like basil, for the same effect.
5. Spinach
Photo by Neelima Agrawal
Mom always said to eat your spinach. Who knew it could give you kissable breath, too? Like black tea, spinach also contains polyphenols that can break down bad-smelling compounds in your mouth. So, if you want to eat garlic, you better eat some spinach, too. Try them together in this pesto recipe, then you (or your date) can thank me later.
6. Cherries
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Cherries contain compounds that help eliminate the smell of methyl mercaptan, a bacteria byproduct that leads to bad breath. And in keeping with that hot date theme, you can always try to tie the cherry stems in knots when you’re done. If the only thing you like dirty is your drinks though, try this dirty cherry lemonade.
7. Bread
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Wait, what? It might be surprising, but a lack of carbs in your diet can lead to halitosis. As your body burns fat, chemicals, called ketones, are released in the breath. The glory of bread doesn’t end there, there’s all types of reasons you should be eating carbs. So pass that breadbasket, this is diet advice I think we can all get behind.
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