The expert offers some simple tips to reduce bad breath
Keto breathing is a topic that has attracted a lot of interest and questions lately. Many people have heard of this characteristic smell, but not everyone understands what it means and why it occurs.
Ketone breath, also known as acetone breath, is a peculiar smell that can be noticed on the breath of people who are in a state of ketosis.
Ketosis occurs when the body starts burning fat for energy instead of carbohydrates. This can happen in situations such as low-carb diets, prolonged fasting, or medical conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes.
Dental surgeon and oral health specialist Bruna Conde comments that the cause of ketone breathing is related to the presence of chemical compounds called ketones, which are produced by the liver during the fat burning process.
“Acetone is one of the ketones that can be released into your breath, causing that distinctive odor, which is often described as smelling like overripe fruit or nail polish remover,” she explains.
Is it normal to have ketone breath?
While ketone breathing is considered normal under certain circumstances, it can be a sign of a health problem in other situations. For example, in people with uncontrolled diabetes, diabetic ketoacidosis can cause dangerously high levels of ketones in the blood, leading to severe and even life-threatening symptoms.
In addition to a distinct smell on the breath, keto breath can produce a different taste or smell in the mouth, different from normal bad breath or bad breath.
How long does keto breath last?
Some people who follow the keto diet never experience keto breath. For those who do, the smell can be annoying. But keto breathing is temporary. This can take a few weeks, and there are a few things you can do to freshen your breath during this time.
Tips to reduce bad breath
Bruna Conde mentions some simple tips to reduce bad breath:
- 1. Increase your water intake
As you exhale, your body releases acetone and ketones from your system through urination. Stay hydrated and drink water throughout the day to increase urination. This helps eliminate ketones from the body and improves breathing. Drinking more water can also help with your weight loss goals.
- two. Balance between proteins and carbohydrates
While protein is important in a low-carb diet, too many things aren’t good for you. As your body breaks down protein, it produces ammonia. This is another byproduct of metabolism that is eliminated through urination and exhalation.
Ammonia can also create a strong odor on the breath. Balancing your protein and increasing your intake of healthy fats (avocados, nuts, olive oil) can improve your breath without forcing your diet.
- 3. Practice good oral hygiene, including tongue hygiene
“Brushing your teeth every day, flossing your teeth and cleaning your tongue every day may not get rid of ketone breath, but these practices can reduce the odor coming out of your mouth. Bacteria can build up in your mouth, on your tongue, and between your teeth when you don’t brush or floss your teeth regularly. Since bacteria also trigger bad breath, poor dental hygiene can make ketone breath worse,” concludes Bruna Conde.
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Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
