Culture Club: Bacteria Can Be Your Friend

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Students, and even fellow teachers, keeping their distance? It could be your breath. You wouldn't be alone; one in four people are reportedly, um, fragrant. Regular brushing and flossing help, but they're not your only weapons.

A recent study at Tsurumi University, in Yokohama, Japan, found that eating about 3 ounces of plain, unsweetened yogurt twice a day tames high levels of hydrogen sulfide and other volatile sulfide compounds that contribute to monster mouth. Better breath is the result, according to lead author Kenichi Houjou. Added bonus: Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus, the live, friendly bacteria in yogurt, also help fight plaque and gingivitis.

While we're on the subject, you probably already know to avoid onions, garlic, alcohol, tobacco, and coffee, but keeping hydrated can help as well: Dry mouth makes you stinky, too. And, if you're feeling extra brave (and considerate), ditch red meat and chicken: They contain two sulfur-containing amino acids that also cause dog breath.