Do Certain Foods Cause Bad Breath? | Diet & Foods | Halitosis Forums

Certain chronic problems related to the digestive system are known to cause bad breath; conditions such as IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), GERD, acid reflux are examples. However, these are not the most likely causes of bad breath; so it is best to look at oral, dental, nasal and throat issues first before looking at the stomach.

Food intolerances (not the same as food allergies) can also cause problems with the digestive system, and so this can result in temporary or chronic bad breath as a consequence. 

Food intolerances vary from person to person. Some people can eat everything while some find carbs or milk very difficult to digest. I never advise to avoid foods completely, unless it is absolutely necessary. For instance, I found that when my IBS was at its worst (before taking the probiotics) I could not eat milk, eggs, pasta, bread or acidic foods. Now, many years have passed since I started taking probiotics every day and I can eat some dairy, pasta regularly without risking stomach cramps, bloating or bad breath.

It is all about moderation I guess, and also finding the culprits. It varies from person to person I am afraid.

Having said that, there are indeed certain foods which cause temporary bad breath for everybody. Onions, garlic, spicy foods, etc… This is normal and nothing to worry about. However, if one suffers from chronic halitosis, of course it is best not to make matters worse and hence avoid these foods.

Coffee and alcohol dry the mouth which exacerbates bad breath so these should be taken in moderation too.

Dolors

Post edited 1:26 pm – November 5, 2011 by Dolors

For whatever reason, some people's lower esophageal sphincter muscle – the valve that opens and closes the bottom of the esophagus that empties into the stomach – does not open and close properly.

This can lead to stomach acid, bacteria, digestive enzymes and undigested food into the esophagus. This acidic mixture can sometimes reach the throat or the mouth.

Bad breath caused by acid reflux is thought to originate from this mixture reaching the mouth or the back of the throat, but also the esophagus can become damaged due to this malfunction and the acids themselves, which in turn can lead to bacteria colonising the area creating more foul odours as a result.