Bad breath, while often a source of embarrassment, can also be indicative of underlying health issues. Common culprits include tooth decay and gum disease, but Dr. Zoe Williams has highlighted a less obvious cause: gut health.
In partnership with Activia, Dr. Williams discussed how gut bacteria can influence breath odor. “Many of us experience bad breath at some point, but few consider that our gut may be to blame,” she stated. The phenomenon she refers to as “gut breath” often presents with smells reminiscent of rotten eggs, varying in intensity.
Dr. Williams explained that an imbalance in gut bacteria might lead to this unpleasant odor. The human microbiome consists of trillions of microorganisms that interact with the brain through the vagus nerve and chemical signals. An overgrowth of harmful bacteria can contribute to bad breath.
Specifically, an excess of bacteria in the small intestine can result in symptoms like burping and gastrointestinal discomfort, alongside foul breath. Notably, Helicobacter pylori, a bacteria present in about 40% of the UK population, typically causes no issues. However, in some cases, it can lead to bad breath or even increase the risk of gastric ulcers. Dr. Williams pointed out that elevated levels of hydrogen sulfide, produced by gut bacteria, can be responsible for breath that smells like eggs.
To combat gut-related bad breath, Dr. Williams recommends lifestyle modifications. Incorporating a diverse array of plant-based foods and fermented items, such as yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut, can help support a healthier gut microbiome.
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