NBC News reports, “An analysis of previous studies revealed that certain bacteria taken as supplements, including Lactobacillus salivarius and Lactobacillus reuteri, could help freshen breath.” The researchers examined data from seven studies to determine “whether probiotic bacteria might help manage bad breath.” They found the compounds that are associated with bad breath “declined significantly in participants who consumed probiotics, compared to those who were given placebos.” The “improvements weren’t permanent, however, lasting about four weeks.” There are multiple causes of bad breath, however, so a nutritionist “said people with persistent bad breath should see a dentist for potential underlying health issues.” The findings were published in BMJ Open.
