Probiotic bacteria can fight bad breath, study finds

Researchers at Sichuan University in China have published a literature review in the journal. BMJ Open about the benefits that some probiotic bacteria from fermented foods may have in fighting bad breath.

Bad breath is a change in breath odor that can be caused by problems with oral hygiene or diseases of the mouth and gastrointestinal tract.

Treatments are varied and can be resolved with guidance on proper oral hygiene or, in more severe cases, with medication and changes in eating habits.

According to a meta-analysis of studies conducted by Chinese researchers, when we think of foods, certain probiotic bacteria found in fermented foods such as bread, yogurt and miso may have some effect in fighting bad breath.

Researchers conducted a literature review of studies on the use of supplements containing probiotic bacteria to improve bad breath and the condition.

Of the 238 randomized clinical trials found, only 7 were analyzed. When the participants of these studies are added, there is a total of 278 participants’ analysis.

Volunteers used supplements containing Lactobacillus salivarius, Lactobacillus reuteri, Streptococcus salivarius, and Weissella cibaria, which appeared effective in controlling bad breath during a follow-up period of 2 to 12 weeks.

Even with positive results, the researchers urge caution when interpreting the results of the meta-analysis as they cannot be conclusive.

Factors such as the use of supplements instead of consuming fermented foods, the duration of use, the persistence of the inhibitory effect and the absence of an effect to reduce coating and dental plaque are the factors that hinder the analysis of the results.

Therefore, more research is needed in this area before stronger evidence can be produced and probiotics can be accepted as a form of treatment.