Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), e.g. heartburn, is characterized by a weakened lower esophageal sphincter which often leads to the backward flow of stomach contents into the esophagus. Normally, the esophageal sphincter, deemed such because it looks like a ring of muscle, opens when you swallow food and squeezes tight to prevent food and acid in the stomach from backing up into the esophagus. In GERD, it does not seal back up rightly, and allows digestive juices to enter the esophagus and irritate the esophageal lining.
This phenomenon has also become recognized as a key contributor to bad breath and result from a combination of recently consumed food, bacterial growth, and potential damage caused by stomach acid.
Understanding the link between gastrointestinal health and bad breath may provide valuable insights into preventive measures and solutions.
Let's talk about your gastrointestinal tract
Beyond the conventional reasons for bad breath mentioned, cavities, gum disease et al., the gastrointestinal tract may play a pivotal role. The esophagus, the tube connecting the mouth to the stomach, serves as a direct link between these two bodily systems, so gastrointestinal problems contribute to bad breath through the regurgitation of bile, undigested food remnants, and stomach acids moving back up the esophagus.
It isn't just GERD, other gastrointestinal conditions like Zenker's diverticulum and Helicobacter pylori infection can also trigger foul odors, but GERD is most common, and one way to know is that bad breath originating from the stomach often carries an acidic, bitter, or metallic taste. If you also have inflammation in the gums or tonsils, and visible lesions within the mouth, that's a compelling sign to try eliminating some foods or seeing a physician.
Understanding the Source: Oral Conditions vs. Gastrointestinal Issues
Oral issues typically lack the accompanying symptoms seen with stomach-induced bad breath but oral environments provide a breeding ground for odors due to trapped food particles and bacteria. The oral conditions seem obvious, more brushing and see a dentist.
For stomach issues some experimentation may be needed.
Graphic: Harvard
Chew Gum: Chewing gum stimulates salivary gland production that can neutralize stomach acid. The only caveat is that you want non-peppermint flavored gum, if you think GERD is the culprit. Experts say peppermint can exacerbate reflux so bring on the Juicy Fruit instead.
Don't recline right after you eat. Lying down after eating can worsen GERD and therefore GERD-induced bad breath. It may be a challenge to wait for hours before eating and watching that football game but it will help prevent the backward flow of stomach contents into the esophagus.
Understanding the intricate connection between stomach health and bad breath opens avenues for proactive management but it requires a little more home sleuthing. If you think you have acid reflux, a doctor will tell you to try some medication but some lifestyle changes may accomplish the same thing.
Good oral hygiene remains crucial but if suspect gastrointestinal issues those two are worth a try. And avoid the Limburger cheese sandwiches unless you are on vacation. Alone. In a cave in Tibet.
Comments