Even though I brush and floss regularly, I’ve been told my breath isn’t great. Someone mentioned that high-protein or low-carb diets might play a role. Are there any specific foods I should avoid or include in my meals to naturally prevent or reduce bad breath caused by dietary choices?

You're asking a really smart question — bad breath can absolutely be influenced by diet, even if your oral hygiene is excellent. It’s not always about how well you brush and floss. If you're dealing with persistent breath issues, I highly recommend checking out this informative article on halitosis treatment from Village Dental Medicine - https://villagedentalmedicine.com/halitosis-aka-bad-breath-causes-treatment-and-remedies/. It covers the many causes of bad breath — including those related to diet — and offers practical remedies that go beyond the usual tips.

Diet plays a surprisingly big role in how your breath smells. When you consume high-protein or low-carb diets, your body enters a state called ketosis, where it begins breaking down fats for energy. This metabolic process releases ketones, which can give your breath a distinct, acetone-like odor — often referred to as “keto breath.” It’s not harmful, but it can definitely be noticeable.

If you're following a low-carb or keto diet and want to minimize bad breath, consider increasing your intake of leafy greens and drinking more water throughout the day. Try sugar-free gum or mints containing xylitol, which stimulates saliva without feeding bacteria.