The easiest ways to avoid bad breath

There are alternatives to mouthwash to keep bad breath at bay.

One way is to stay hydrated, as saliva naturally helps to wash away bacteria and leftover food particles.

A 2021 Korean study proved this by examining dehydrated, normally hydrated and overhydrated volunteers.

They found dehydration was linked to worse breath, lower saliva production and higher levels of sulphur compounds – the chemicals responsible for foul breath.

Experts say another way to boost saliva is chewing sugar-free gum, particularly those with xylitol, a natural sugar alcohol. A 2017 review in the Journal of Breath Research looked at multiple studies on chewing gum and concluded it can reduce compounds associated with bad breath.

Crunchy food helps too. Apples, carrots and celery can help to clean the mouth as you eat.

Also, green tea contains compounds believed to reduce levels of the sulphur-producing bacteria that are linked to bad breath.

Experts add that acidic drinks like coffee and energy beverages can make the problem worse.

Skipping meals can also compound the dilemma by drying out the mouth, say health experts.