Japanese researchers found that drinking more yogurt can reduce the content of hydrogen sulfide in 80% subjects, and hydrogen sulfide is the main cause of oral odor.
The key for yogurt to help relieve bad breath lies in the active bacteria in yogurt, especially lactic acid bacteria and streptococcus thermophilus.
The detailed findings were presented at a meeting of the International Dental Research Association.
* * * Twenty-four volunteers participated in this study, and the researchers put forward strict requirements for them in oral hygiene, diet and medication.
They don't eat yogurt, cheese and other similar foods for two weeks.
Then, the researchers collected samples of their saliva and tongue coating to measure the levels of bacteria and compounds that can induce odor, such as hydrogen sulfide.
Volunteers drank 90 grams of yogurt every day for the next six weeks.
At the end of the study, the researchers collected samples again. They found that the content of hydrogen sulfide in the subjects' mouths dropped by 80%.
In addition, the incidence of dental plaque and gingivitis in the subjects who drank yogurt also decreased significantly.
Dr Nigel Carter, head of the British Dental Care Foundation, said: "The Foundation has been trying to stimulate people's interest in sugar-free yogurt as a healthy snack, so we are glad to hear that it can promote oral health, which we didn't realize before."
"Regular intake of sugary snacks is the main cause of tooth decay, which brings great pain and inconvenience."
"Although this research is still in its infancy, there is no doubt that sugar-free yogurt is a healthier substitute than candy and chocolate. We should encourage snack lovers to make it a part of their daily diet. "
One in four people often suffers from bad breath, and one in 20 people 19 people suffer from gum disease at some stage in their lives.
However, Dr. Carter stressed that the best way to prevent bad breath is to develop good oral hygiene habits. Including brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, reducing the intake of sugary snacks and drinks, flossing your teeth every day and visiting the dentist regularly.