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Could there be a correlation between zinc and bad breath? If you’ve ever read the ingredients list on your mouthwash bottle, you may have noticed that zinc is commonly present. This is also true of brands that have been on the market for decades, which lead us to believe that it has been understood for quite some time that zinc can help eradicate even the most persistent cases of halitosis, commonly known as bad breath. It has become commonly accepted that zinc, an essential trace element, plays a role in our health to promote growth, immunity and healing. For a number of years, products such as dietary supplements and skin lotions have added zinc.

Research has shown that mouthwash containing Zinc can be an effective safeguard for those who suffer from halitosis. It’s important to understand the cause of bad breath. The culprit is anaerobes, bacteria that live in the absence of oxygen. In the mouth, these anaerobic bacteria produce the foul odor that is halitosis. Zinc works against the production of these bacteria, and therefore, reduces the incidence of bad breath. We’ve all experienced the repugnant odor of organic material decomposing in an airless environment, such as a wet heap of rotting vegetation, or something that has been left too long in a sealed plastic bag. That unpleasant smell is a byproduct of gases produced by the bacteria that are proliferating in the decaying material. Zinc apparently blocks the production of these volatile sulfur compounds, helping to seize the objectionable odor. Such is the means by which Zinc is effective in eradicating halitosis.

Although a dietary deficiency of zinc may be a suspect, most people with halitosis probably do get adequate amounts in their diet. Notwithstanding, the two can be related, as bad breath has been identified as a symptom of zinc deficiency, especially in the case of chronic halitosis. In the event that zinc deficiency is the cause, an alternative to using mouthwash would be to ensure that you are getting adequate amounts of zinc in your diet. Eating adequate amounts of foods like seafood, red meat, dark chicken meat, kidney beans, and nuts such as almonds and cashews will help to increase dietary levels of zinc. Another option would be to take zinc supplements.

Because you are not actually ingesting the zinc by using mouthwash, it will not help increase your body’s level of zinc. The most efficient means to heighten the levels of zinc in your system is by eating those foods rich in zinc, or by taking zinc supplements. It is best to avoid foods that can inhibit the absorption of zinc, such as dairy products and foods high in fiber. Other obstacles to zinc absorption are certain drugs and medical conditions, so it is best to discuss your options with your doctor if you suspect a link between zinc and bad breath.

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