Bad breath, or halitosis, can ruin your confidence and self-esteem.

Perhaps you’ve already tried mint drops, tongue brushes, and natural remedies, but nothing worked.

Bacteria buildup is a major contributing factor to bad breath.

Woman checking her breath in the morning while in bed

Some aid in digestion and ward off pathogens, whereas others can cause tooth decay and cavities.

As it turns out, yogurt and other probiotic-rich foods could have a similar effect.

Eating yogurt may help curb bad breath

Some peopleeat yogurt every dayfor its probiotic content.

Probiotic-rich yogurt in a glass jar

This creamy, delicious treat is rich in good bacteria that support gut health and digestive function.

Chan School of Public Health.

Perhaps not surprisingly, the probiotic bacteria in yogurt and other foods may also help curb bad breath.

Woman eating yogurt in front of a window

These microorganisms also occur naturally in fermented foods, including yogurt.

Both plaque buildup and gum diseasecan cause halitosis, so treating these conditions can lead to fresher breath.

Moreover, probiotics help suppress inflammation and harmful oral bacteria while protecting the gums and surrounding tissues.

The experts atPeriodontal Associates of Memphisrecommend eating a cup of plain yogurt daily to prevent bad breath.

Now that you know thetruth about probiotics, go ahead and include yogurt in your diet.

Alternatively, opt for kefir, soft cheeses, or cultured buttermilk.