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Bad breath (Halitosis) is widespread and quite common. You have probably discretely stepped away from friends or colleagues with bad breath. But it can also be a shock to realize that others, for the same reason, may be edging (discretely) away from you!

How can you know if your breath is offensive?

Try this simple bad breath(Halitosis)test:

Lick the inside of your wrist and wait 4 seconds. Now smell your wrist. If you don't like what smell, your breath does not smell good either. Easy, no? An accurate and portable diagnosis!

What causes bad breath?

' Not enough water in your body, dehydration.
' Gum or tooth problems/ disease
' Intestinal/ stomach disorders, yeast infection
' Use of medications
' Stress

Remedies for Bad Breath (Halitosis)

1. Water - yes, water! Many people suffer from chronic dehydration because they don't drink drink the 8-12 glasses of water a day that the body needs. This common form of dehydration causes much common bad breath. You can improve your breath - and give a big lift to your health - simply by drinking enough water.

2. Recently eaten food that hasn't been brushed out can quickly smell bad. The "cure" then is to simply brush or floss. For gum disease and decay you must visit your dentist. And for improved oral hygiene, put a few drops of Oil of Oregano on your toothbrush or to swish it in your mouth as a mouthwash. Did you know that Oil of Oregano is antibacterial/ anti viral/ anti fungus and anti parasite? It seeks out these health impediments everywhere in the body. At the first signs of infection, Oil of Oregano is your great first line of defense.

3. For disturbed digestion you should see your doctor. But for mild problems such as GERD and acid reflux, take probiotics in the form acidophilus or kefir. For worse stomach problems try ' cup of Aloe vera before breakfast. Do this for at least 3 weeks. For my friend Peter this completely healed his stomach ulcer! Most GERD are related to the H pylori, which is a bacteria found in meats that haven't been thoroughly cooked. If you like your meat rare, take Oil of Oregano on a regular basis as a preventive measure.

3. When you are under too much stress your digestive system doesn't circulate enough oxygen (the energy goes into a fight or flight mode). This makes your digestive tract a breeding ground for the wrong bacteria - and for bad breath as well. Be sure to introduce deep, relaxed breathing throughout your busy day.

4. Eat raw parsley, chew on anise seed or cardamom, nutmeg or fennel - they're natural breath fresheners that don't just mask odors, but actually freshen the breath.

5. Eat plenty of vegetables, fruit and whole grains; avoid white flour products like white bread and pastas, as well as sugared juices and sodas.

5. You may have an undetected yeast infection. Find out for yourself by performing a simple self-test for yeast/candida overgrowth.

6. Chew your food well and do not drink fluids with your food. Take no food two hours before bedtime and try to not take food for 12 hours after dinner.

7. Eliminate as often as you can. Try to have three bowel movements a day. If you need some help, try 4 ounces of prune juice with 4 ounces of magnesium citrate. (My R.N. friend Marie calls this "The Bomb".) For more help try 2000 mg. of vitamin C with electrolytes every hour. Do this for 4 hours or more, until you start to have loose stools. (This also works well for headaches and boosts your immune system.

8. Drink at least 2 cups of kefir a day. This helps your intestinal flora regain its natural balance of bacteria.

Remember - fresh, clean breath is a reflection of good health, and health is an ongoing process. Stick with it! Follow my suggestions, and keep a log of what you do and the effects you see. This simple tracking process can help you pinpoint what is truly effective. You will be inspired by your own success!

Warmly, Pieternel van Giersbergen.