Keto-Breath, Why It’s So Bad and The Simple 3 Step Fix
The Ketogenic Diet is one of the most popular and effective diets for losing weight. It’s a very low-carb, high fat and protein diet that is similar in many ways to the Atkins, Paleo and other low-carb diets.
The idea behind the diet is to reduce carbohydrate intake while increasing the consumption of healthy fats. Since fat is a fuel source for the body that burns longer, and provides more energy, it is better than carbohydrates which burn faster requiring more of them for ongoing energy. In today’s culture, processed carbs are everywhere and each time they are consumed, they impact blood sugar in the body. The more often and the larger the intake of carbs, the greater the negative impact they can have on blood sugar regulation, increasing the risk over time for developing type 2 diabetes. (1) The bacteria in the mouth love to feed on these carbs too, so overgrowth of bad bacteria can also contribute to inflammation in the mouth and body also.
By reducing carbs and replacing them with healthy fats and proteins, the body goes into a efficient fat burning metabolic state called ketosis. (2) Ketogenic diets have been shown to optimize blood sugar and insulin levels, reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes for enhanced health and wellbeing. (3). There is also good bacterial growth in the body, with less tendency for gum inflammation.
While this form of dieting has many health benefits, it does have a dark side… Bad breath! The bad breath comes when we start burning fat as fuel in the body. The reason, our bodies produce different metabolic by-products. The main byproduct of ketosis fat burning is the release of acetone. (4)
The good news, is there are 3 simple steps that will help reduce this effect while you enjoy the health benefits of greater energy, health and vitality.
Step 1: Drink half of your body weight in water each day to help flush the metabolites from the body and mouth
Step 2: Brush Twice a Day
Step 3: Floss Once a Day
For additional support, use a tongue scraper and be sure to come in for regular dental cleanings two times a year. This way we can monitor any oral health changes that go along with this healthy lifestyle choice.
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