Halitosis, also known as bad breath, is a common occurrence in daily life. There are numerous causes for halitosis, ranging from physiological factors to diseases. When experiencing bad breath, it is essential to maintain good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth at least twice a day, preferably in the morning and evening, rinsing your mouth after eating, and learning to use dental floss to remove food debris from between your teeth. Let's briefly delve into the reasons for bad breath.

Causes of Bad Breath

Most cases of bad breath are directly linked to oral health. The strong odor emanating from the mouth is generally attributed to anaerobic bacteria. These bacteria thrive on undigested residues trapped in the mouth, releasing sulfur compounds that contribute significantly to the formation of bad breath. These compounds are similar to the odor emitted when exhaling. Oral issues are the primary source of the pungent odor, emanating mainly from anaerobic bacteria present in the mouth. These bacteria produce volatile sulfides, the gaseous component of bad breath, through the decomposition of trapped substances in the mouth. To some extent, this type of bad breath can be likened to the odor emitted when something "burps" in your mouth.

Effective Methods to Combat Bad Breath

Here are some recommended approaches:

1. Dietary Considerations

If you suffer from bad breath, it is advisable to minimize the intake of sweet and greasy foods, as well as avoid spicy and fried items. Avoid overeating or consuming heavy meals before bedtime, as the stomach is in a resting state during sleep. Excessive food intake can lead to increased gastric burden.

2. Incorporate Foods That Benefit the Spleen

For mild cases of bad breath, incorporating foods that benefit the spleen into your daily diet can be helpful. For instance, lamb is a good choice as it has the effect of tonifying Qi and strengthening the spleen. Lamb is also warm in nature without being too stimulating, making it effective in relieving fatigue. Additionally, it can be beneficial for men with impotence issues due to its spleen-strengthening and aphrodisiac properties.

3. Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule

It is crucial to maintain a regular sleep schedule and aim for an early bedtime, around 10 pm. Avoid eating stimulating foods and staying up late. Bad breath is often associated with stomach heat and unhealthy dietary habits. Staying up late can increase stomach heat, so it is advisable to consume certain herbal remedies like Huoxiang Qingwei capsules, which can effectively alleviate bad breath and promote better digestion of food.