Symptom 8: Bad Breath
Bad breath, or halitosis, is often brushed off as a result of poor dental hygiene or consuming odor-causing foods. While these are common culprits, chronic bad breath can sometimes point to a deeper issue: poor digestion.
Stomach acid plays a crucial role in breaking down food, especially proteins. Inadequate acid can result in partial digestion, leading to fermentation of food in the gut. This process produces various gases, some of which are foul-smelling.
These gases can rise up the esophagus, manifesting as persistent bad breath. This isn’t the occasional garlic or onion breath. It’s a constant, underlying odor that seems resistant to mints, mouthwashes, and even meticulous dental hygiene.
Furthermore, poor digestion can lead to an imbalance in gut bacteria. Certain strains, when they proliferate, can produce sulfur-containing compounds. These compounds not only contribute to bad breath but can also impact overall oral health. (8)
