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<title>Latest Articles by nurturelab</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/</link>
<description>Articles at Populate.NET</description>
<language>en-us</language>
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<title>What Are Some Useful Tips for Quitting Smoking</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/what-are-some-useful-tips-for-quitting-smoking.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/what-are-some-useful-tips-for-quitting-smoking.html</guid>
<pubDate>Wed, 22 Oct 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Smoking is a form of recreation drug use that has become a vital part of the daily lives of many people. Burning a cigarette, releases nicotine, which is a chemical substance inhaled during smoking. Upon absorption by the lungs, it gives an unusual sensation and feeling of satisfaction.

Smoke addiction could lead to related illnesses like lung cancer and heart diseases. Unfortunately, there are still many people who continuously smoke due to various reasons. For some, it becomes a form of relaxation activity that calms their whole system. Others smoke because they like skipping meals and become slimmer. Thus, there is also a form of social smoking, where one engage in conversations at parties and gatherings as they smoke.

According to reports and statistics, many people die due to smoking. This involves both the primary and secondary smokers. Primary smokers are those who smoke directly. On the other hand, secondary smokers are mostly the innocent individuals who could also breathe the smoke from the cigarette.

In fact, the latter are more prone to develop the instances of lung cancer and heart attacks even though they are not the ones directly smoking. This becomes a platform for concerned sectors, groups and individuals to join the campaign on quitting smoking.

While smoking becomes a habit that is hard to break, there are many alternatives to smoking. Here are some tips for quitting smoking.

Tip #1: Having A Strong Reason For Qutting Smoking
The first key towards quitting smoking is to have a strong conviction or reason to really stop oneself from smoking. Is it because of your health or a promise you made to someone you love? Or is it for the health of your family members who would later develop cancer and heart problems if you continue smoking?

Whatever it is, it would be helpful to write them down to ensure that you are reminded from time to time. Alternatively, you could also do a list on the pros and cons of smoking. Then weigh the difference between the two. Which way would lead to a healthier lifestyle? Which would lessen the expenses? Which would promote a cleaner home?

Tip #2: Quit Smoking Gradually
The second key is gradual withdrawal from smoking. Calculate the number of cigarettes that is consumed in a week's time. Then, divide this number into half.

This number corresponds to the number of sticks that will be partitioned for a week. Put the equally divided cigarette sticks into plastic bags and label each with a day. Each bag is restricted for a day's consumption only.

Only when you have succeeded for the first week do you continue on the reduction into half and the partitioning until there is none left to be placed on the plastic bag. Doing this can be pretty motivating as it really makes you feel good as you see your own reliance on cigarettes decreasing.

Tip #3: Get Support From Others
The third key is to seek help from others. It would be nice to hit two birds with one stone. Perhaps, one could invite a buddy, a friend or a neighbour who are also heavy smokers to become a quit-smoking partner.

In this way, both can motivate one another whenever the other feels like engaging into the activity. Instead of smoking together, both can stick to recreational activities like going to the gym, walking, jogging or meditating.

Tip #4: Get Support From Others
The last key would involve appetite and discipline. Most people who quit smoking tend to substitute meals with cigarettes and so, gaining weight is most likely to happen. 

To avoid this, choose to eat vegetables and drink more water. This is beneficial especially when one could not stop craving for nicotine. If you crave for cigarette, shift your attention to other activities like writing into a journal and listing again the harmful sides of smoking. ]]></description>
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<title>Cure For Bad Breath- Get Mouthwashes That Work</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/cure-for-bad-breath--get-mouthwashes-that-work.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/cure-for-bad-breath--get-mouthwashes-that-work.html</guid>
<pubDate>Fri, 26 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Under normal conditions a mouthwash should help clear bad breath because it helps kill bacteria in the mouth and make it smell fresh. Sometimes, however, some kinds of mouthwash serve to aggravate the bad breath problem.

The reason for this is simple: some mouthwashes contain alcohol and if you are already having a bad breath problem the alcohol in the mouthwash aggravates the problem. It dries out the saliva which keeps your mouth moist and, in a dry mouth, bacteria thrive. If you need to use a mouthwash, do use an alcohol free one.

Do not forget to drink plenty of water along with your meal and even otherwise, because water hydrates you and flushes your mouth and your system. If you are eating with other people and do not have a toothbrush with you, you can go the restroom and rinse out your mouth with water and spit it out. The water loosens the food debris which may be stuck between your teeth and any food residue in your mouth as well. If you are with family and friends and you cannot, for any given reason, go to a restroom, you can do it at the table, except do not spit out the water, but swallow it.

Mouthwashes work to a limited extent and they will work best when used in conjunction with regular brushing and flossing schedules. You should brush your teeth at least twice daily, morning and night and in between as well if possible. When you brush, clean your teeth, gums, tongue and your whole mouth very well. You should brush for at least 20 seconds, though some dentists recommend brushing for up to two minutes for it to be effective. Apart from brushing twice daily at the very least rinse your mouth after every meal with water or a mouthwash.

Actually brushing after every meal is recommended, and flossing should be done once or twice a day. Do not forget to change your toothbrush at least once every 2-3 months to prevent bacterial build-up. Bacteria can cause bad breath and also illnesses like strep throat.

What kind of toothbrush should you use, what kind of dental floss is best for you? You should ask the dentist these questions and buy the products accordingly. Keep to a schedule regarding seeing a dentist on a regular basis and not wait till you have a problem. Apart from that you should also see the dentist immediately if you do have any problem like a cavity, pain or any other problem. Cavities should be taken care of quickly otherwise they can lead to bigger problems.

You should also take the advice of your dentist as to which toothpaste will be good for you. Sometimes dentists recommend particular toothpastes depending on the teeth and requirements of the dentist. Toothpastes with fluoride, baking soda or peroxide are usually good bets. Flosses also come in different types and your dentist can advise you which one to take. These oral care products will help keep your teeth and mouth healthy and clean. There are teeth whitening treatments also available over the counter and your dentist can advise you if you need one. All these will help limit chances of infection in the mouth which can cause bad breath.

It is most important to keep your mouth clean and healthy not only to prevent bad breath but also reduce the possibility of getting gum disease or even preventing oral cancers. If you go to the dentist regularly, you will limit your likelihood of getting cavities, having to get teeth removed or root canals one. Dental work costs a lot and may also be unpleasant and hurt you. If you take care of your teeth, you may never need to wear dentures! ]]></description>
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<title>The Lies Of Bad Breath, Get Your Facts Right</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/the-lies-of-bad-breath-get-your-facts-right.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/the-lies-of-bad-breath-get-your-facts-right.html</guid>
<pubDate>Thu, 25 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Bad breath is a very common health concern. While the treatments may vary greatly, depending on the cause and the the person affected, there are many things that people have always accepted as facts about bad breath, but some of these, such as the following, are not really true.

Bad Breath Myth #1
You can find out if you have bad breath by exhaling over your cupped hand. True and false. It is possible to determine the presence of bad breath by using this technique. However, it may only work if your halitosis is so severe, or if you have a very sensitive sense of smell. The truth is that identifying your own bad breath is very hard because your nose is actually connected to your mouth. As such, many internal odors may be screened, including that of bad breath.

If you seriously think that you might have bad breath, you can confirm the situation by any of these methods. First, you can go to the dentist and ask to be checked with the halimeter, a dental instrument specifically used to diagnose halitosis. Second, you can ask a trusty friend to simply tell you. But the easiest way to check for bad breath is by scraping the innermost part of your tongue with a teaspoon or a cotton swab. After a minute, hold the spoon or swab to your nose and get a whiff. Whatever odor you get, that is exactly how your breath smells.

Bad Breath Myth #2
Bad breath comes from the intestines. True and false, but mostly false. While it is possible that bad breath can stem from digestive disorders, it is more commonly a result of leftover food particles stuck in the crevices of your mouth due to irregular brushing and failure to floss everyday.

Bad Breath Myth #3
Bad breath can be avoided by brushing and flossing regularly. True. This is a very simple yet very effective way to get rid of bad breath or avoid getting it in the first place. Ideally, you should brush your teeth after every meal, including snacks, to clear your mouth of excess food particles every time you eat, but two or three times a day is sufficient, according to most dentists. Flossing must be done daily. In addition to these common dental practices, it is also vital that you clean your tongue after brushing to prevent bacteria from accumulating, which can eventually lead to bad breath.

Bad Breath Myth #4
Bad breath can be eliminated by using a mouthwash. False. According to most advertisements, you will have fresh breath just by using a mouthwash. Unfortunately, these dental products only give a temporary solution to your halitosis problem. Some of them can even aggravate the problem in the long run. If you want to completely eliminate the problem of bad breath, you should practice good dental hygiene, eat foods rich in fiber and drink plenty of water everyday.

Mouthwashes can be used as a temporary breath freshener in situations where it's not practical to brush your teeth right away. But even in these circumstances, you should avoid those that have some kind of alcohol among their ingredients. These products cause dry mouth, which then encourages the growth of oral bacteria that produces that nasty odor that we know as bad breath. 

When purchasing a mouthwash, you can consider the products that contain chlorine dioxide. These will not dry up your mouth and are very effective in masking the foul odor released by certain oral bacteria, at least on a short term basis.

One particular brand of mouthwash, ProFresh Oral Rinse, has been tested to be more effective than others in this regard. The manufacturers of this dental product actually claim that their mouthwash is unique because it is the only one that actually contains chlorine dioxide that can counter the putrid smell released by oral bacteria. According to press releases from the company, other mouthwashes that claim to have chlorine dioxide actually has only sodium chlorite which is not that effective against bad breath.

Bad Breath Myth #5
Eating certain foods can give you bad breath. True and false. Once more, this depends on several other factors. For instance, we all know that eating onions or garlic can leave a nasty smell in the mouth that some people might call bad breath. However, this is only a temporary odor and is not really the same as having halitosis. The same goes for sulfur-rich foods like cabbage. In these cases, you might have bad breath after your meal but it will fade quickly especially if you brush your teeth immediately after eating.

However, if your bad breath is persistent and does not go away, you might want to consider reducing your intake of foods that are rich in sulfur. If you regularly consume these foods, naturally, sulfur will always be present in your digestive system. The strong stench of this chemical will come out in your breath every time you open your mouth. But this happens very rarely.

The more common cause of bad breath is still the lack of proper oral hygiene. To decrease your chances of getting bad breath, you must always be conscious of your mouth's cleanliness. Take the time to brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, clean your tongue properly and avoid sulfur-rich foods. This way, you can avoid getting bad breath in the first place. ]]></description>
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<title>Bad Breath: Everything You Wanted to Know But Were Afraid to Ask</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/bad-breath-everything-you-wanted-to-know-but-were-afraid-to-ask.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/bad-breath-everything-you-wanted-to-know-but-were-afraid-to-ask.html</guid>
<pubDate>Sun, 21 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ There are many possible causes of bad breath, the most common of which is poor dental hygiene. This type of bad breath can be remedied by using a mouthwash or brushing your teeth more frequently. However, if your bad breath is a side effect of a more serious illness, it might be a little more difficult to treat.

Some internal disorders can lead to bad breath, such as diabetes, liver diseases, chronic sinus infection, gum diseases and problems in the alimentary canal. These disorders can cause bacteria to accumulate in the mouth and throat, which can cause the foul odor that we typically call bad breath.

Identifying your own bad breath can be tricky. Usually, other people notice it before you do, and needless to say, this can be quite embarrassing. In order to tell if you do have bad breath, try to notice if there is a bitter taste in your mouth. You can also lick your wrist and smell it, just as if you were trying on a new perfume. Or simply exhale into your cupped hand and smell your hand. If you do have bad breath, you will easily notice a nasty smell by doing any of these tests.

Bad breath, or halitosis in medical terms, can be treated using a variety of commercial products like mouthwashes. If you do not like the idea of going to the grocery store or pharmacy to purchase your mouthwash, you can try home-made substitutes. All you have to do is combine one part water to one part hydrogen peroxide. Alternatively, you can use baking soda instead of hydrogen peroxide. Both solutions work quite nicely in eliminating halitosis.

Overall, healthy practices can help reduce the risk of having bad breath in the first place. For instance, if you are a smoker, chances are you are already emitting a not-so-fresh smell from your mouth. Quitting smoking will surely freshen your breath as well as improve the condition of your lungs and sinuses. Annual visits to your dentist can prevent the onset of halitosis as well.

You may notice that some people chew gum to prevent bad breath. This practice actually has a scientific explanation. When you chew gum, saliva flows more freely in the mouth. This increased flow helps decrease the risk of bad breath. Some gums and breath strips, besides keeping the saliva flowing, can also clean out the insides of your digestive tract.

Onions and garlic are among the most common culprits of bad breath. So are most beverages that are abundant in alcohol and caffeine. If you are planning to attend a social event where you will be in close contact with other people, it is best to avoid such foods.

As mentioned earlier, it is not uncommon for other people to notice that you have bad breath even before you realize it for yourself. You can see this in the way they try to avoid facing you when you are speaking to them, or when your date tries to make strange reasons for not kissing you. You can just imagine how totally embarrassing and awkward those situations can be. The best thing to do is to always check your breath and take measures to keep it fresh at all times.

Preventing bad breath actually requires very simple practices, such as brushing your teeth after meals and remembering to floss. Most people neglect to brush their tongue as well, and this negligence can lead to bad breath. Also, you can choose a toothpaste brand that contains natural mint oils as these are very good in keeping the breath fresh.

Regularly breathing through the mouth is a quick way towards bad breath so you may want to avoid this. Also, make it a habit to rinse your mouth with water whenever you are drinking. This will dislodge loose food particles in the mouth and prevent the onset of bad breath.

Hundreds of different products are available to help eliminate and prevent bad breath. You can either ask your dentist regarding these products or simply go online to search for them. Simply go to any search engine, type in "halitosis products" and you will see thousands upon thousands of online stores where you can buy these products. ]]></description>
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<title>Get To Know The 7 Herbs That Are Effective For Your Bad Breath</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/get-to-know-the-7-herbs-that-are-effective-for-your-bad-breath.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/get-to-know-the-7-herbs-that-are-effective-for-your-bad-breath.html</guid>
<pubDate>Tue, 16 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Herbs are a necessity in the modern kitchen. You may be using fresh herbs, dry herbs or crushed herbs, depending on availability and season in your cooking. You may be astonished to learn that quite of few of the herbs can be used as a remedy for bad breath. If you are willing to try alternative remedies, these are the herbs that can help with halitosis.

Eucalyptus: This herb was originally used by the Australian aborigines who managed to get some liquid from the herbs by chewing them. It is common knowledge that the smell of eucalyptus oil helps when you have any ailment like asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and whooping cough. Eucalyptus contains a volatile oil called eucalyptol. It works in a similar way as menthol, by opening nasal passages and acting on receptors in the mucus, thus reducing the symptoms of nasal congestion.

However, this herb is best avoided internally as it can cause diarrhea, nausea and vomiting. You should not use the oil for infants under two years of age even for inhalation purposes because there is a danger or airway spasm leading to stoppage of breathing, a potentially fatal consequence. Then again the oil may increase bronchial spasms in asthmatics and should not be ingested by people with severe liver disease or any inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract or kidney.

Thyme: Found in the Mediterranean region and also cultivated in the United States, this sweet smelling herb is used in cooking. The dried or semi-dried leaves and the flowering tops are also used for their medicinal properties. It has anti-tussive (cough treating), anti-spasmodic and expectorant (thinning the mucus) actions which are of great help. Thyme can be used along or blended with other herbs like sundew and it is often used in Europe for treating dry, spasmodic coughs and also whooping cough. Because the herb is not toxic, it can be used safely with small children.

Though it is a herb which is fairly safe to use, do keep in mind that a heavy, spasmodic cough, specially in young children, may be a precursor to a more dangerous medical condition, and so do consult a medical practitioner to check for the same.

Myrrh: The reddish-brown resin of myrrh was used for preserving mummies in olden times. It found its place in the treatment of infectious diseases like leprosy and syphilis in ancient times. Herbalists and naturalist also suggest this herb as a remedy for bad breath and other dental problems. Resin, gum and volatile oil form the three main constituents of myrrh. These contribute to its efficacy. It is also known for its astringent properties and it has a calming effect on inflamed tissues which may be present in the mouth and throat. It is usually safe to use.

Bloodroot: This herb was used by Native Americans in rituals and in medicines. Its color was used as body paint. Bloodroot was used to treat cough, sore throats, rheumatic pains and even cancer. The main active compounds in this herb are alkaloids-primarily sanguinarine. Some toothpastes and other oral hygiene products may contain these because they are supposed to hinder bacteria growth.

Bloodroot should be used with caution because it can cause nausea and vomiting if it is taken in large doses.

Caraway: This herb has been used medically for centuries. Its seeds help in digestion and also aid in easing colic pain, especially in children. It is a carminative; therefore it is used in helping gastrointestinal discomfort.

It is generally safe for internal use when ingested. However, oil from caraway and other herbs in the Umbelliferrae family are volatile and may cause irritation to the skin and mucous membranes. Do not use the oil for children under two years.

Peppermint: This herb, too, is carminative. Its digestive properties are common knowledge and it widely used for indigestion and intestinal colic pains.

Though peppermint tea is usually considered safe for regular drinking, the same cannot be said for peppermint oil which can cause burning and gastrointestinal upset in some people.

Sage: It has historically been used as a culinary and medicinal herb for times immemorial. It has been used externally to treat swelling, sprains, bleeding and ulcers by herbalists. Tea from sage leaves has been used for treating coughs and sore throat and even used as a gargle.

A word of caution: extremely high amounts of sage can be a causative factor in convulsions. ]]></description>
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<title>Don't Allow Bad Breath To Destroy Your Relationships</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/don-t-allow-bad-breath-to-destroy-your-relationships.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/don-t-allow-bad-breath-to-destroy-your-relationships.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Would you want to kiss your date if he or she has bad breath? I should think not. Fresh breath is essential if you are going on a date. If you have bad breath or halitosis, you should clean your mouth out before going on that next blind date.

Maintaining the kissable freshness of breath is not always easy, especially if you are predisposed to halitosis. Some people are actually more prone to getting bad breath than others, particularly those who do not practice regular dental hygiene. Failure to brush or floss consistently is the number one cause of bad breath in individuals all over the country.

Sometimes, it won't even matter even you floss religiously or spend 5 minutes each time you brush your teeth. If you are taking drugs for certain internal illnesses like diabetes or liver disorders, your breath will ultimately turn foul. Smokers and habitual drinkers have this same high probability of developing bad breath.

These illnesses and unhealthy habits are not the causes of bad breath directly. What happens is because of these habits and disorders, oral bacteria thrive in the mouth and the back of the throat. These are the ones who produce the offensive smell that is pretty much like that of rotten eggs.

When you go out on a date, you definitely do not want that rotten egg smell getting in the way of your otherwise romantic dinner. Therefore, it is crucial that you seek treatment for your bad breath as soon as you notice it. But what if you do not know that you do have bad breath? Hopefully, at least one of your friends will step up and warn you, because surely, they will notice it before you do. However, telling a friend that they have stinky breath is not as easy as telling them that their shirt's on backwards or that their fly's open.

Because of this difficulty, there's a very real possibility that no one will tell you the truth and you'll excitedly head out to meet your date. When your date mysteriously makes an excuse not to kiss you or worse, takes off before you even finish dinner, you'll just be left wondering if you did or said anything wrong. Little will you know that you've been deserted simply because your breath stinks.

When you get home, you dejectedly replay the date in your mind, trying to figure out why your companion left, when things looked so promising at the start of the evening. In the face of such mysterious circumstances, you should definitely consider the possibility that you might actually have bad breath.

It's time to find out the truth once and for all. Very simply, this is what you have to do. Cup one of your hands, hold it in front of your mouth and exhale. After 3 seconds, smell your hand. Rotten eggs? There you have it. You weren't a lousy date after all. You just have bad breath.

Before you get mad at your friends for not telling you this right away, remember that it's really not a very simple task. If you reverse the situation and you know that your friend has bad breath, can you really just say straight out, "your breath stinks"? Perhaps, if you're that close. But in most situations, letting your friend know the smelly truth will take some amount of planning and waiting for the appropriate moment.

The best way of doing it would be the direct method, which as mentioned, will only work if you have the kind of closeness and familiarity that can tolerate such candor. If you try doing that to someone you've just met, you can forget having a relationship with them after that. The embarrassment and awkwardness will just be too much to handle. To avoid upsetting your friend or making them feel uncomfortable, tell it to them privately and in as a nice manner as humanly possible.

If your type of relationship with them allows it, you can say it in a lighthearted way but let them know that you're serious. However, do not give them the impression that you're judging them for it. You can even turn it into a private joke between the two of you eventually. Afterwards, you can even help them in seeking treatment for their bad breath. If you find a way to let them know the truth in a nice way, it can even make for a stronger friendship.

There's no question that having bad breath can certainly dissuade some people from nurturing a close friendship with you. It will be harder as well to find and keep dates if you do not remedy the situation quickly enough. In most cases, the solution is as simple as brushing and flossing regularly. Others may require more intensive solutions. At any rate, it is always good if you're surrounded with honest and candid friends who can warn you whenever your breath starts to stink again. ]]></description>
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<title>Do You Suffer From Halitosis? If So, You Need This</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/do-you-suffer-from-halitosis-if-so-you-need-this.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/Diseases_and_Conditions/do-you-suffer-from-halitosis-if-so-you-need-this.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ All people from time to time experience bad breath, including the embarrassment that goes along with it. What causes bad breath? There are many factors, such as smoking, poor oral hygiene, gum problems, and tooth decay.

More than 60 percent of Americans have halitosis and over 35 million are afflicted with chronic halitosis. However, not all of bad breath is systemic in origin; some of it is caused by how fastidious a person can be when it comes to oral hygiene. Do not make the mistake of believing in the claims that over-the-counter products can cure bad breath; more often than not, these products just mask the unpleasant odor and fail to treat the root of the problem.

The bacteria often found in the mouth congregate towards the back of the tongue and are one of the culprits for halitosis. Anaerobic bacteria eat food debris and excrete Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSC). VSC smell like hydrogen sulfide, which resemble rotten eggs in odor. Bad breath odor may also be caused by some foods after they have been digested and the bad odor comes from the lungs.

Here are some of the simple treatments for bad breath:

Daily brushing is required. How you brush your teeth is also vital and many people do not know that there is a correct brushing method that will eliminate food particles wedged between the teeth. Brushing every day can eliminate much of bad breath. Undergoing regular dental cleanings also reduce the number of bacteria residing in your mouth. The white substance often found on the back of the tongue can be removed with a tongue cleaner. Proper diet is also essential in preventing halitosis.

Saliva is endowed with antibiotic elements that combat bacteria in the mouth. When the mouth becomes dry, saliva production is reduced and bad breath increases. If you chew gum to stimulate production of saliva, this would help in reducing the bad odor emanating from  your mouth. Another way to increase saliva production is to drink at least eight fluid ounces of water everyday. Aside from fighting bad breath, water is also good for the health.

If you're in a meeting or in a public place and unable to brush your teeth after eating, a remedy would be to drink water and then swish it around the mouth to loosen the particles and then spit it out.

Again chewing to stimulate saliva product is crucial and snacking on fresh vegetables instead of chips, candy, and cookies can help to prevent plaque formation.

Vitamin C is food for health and deficiency in Vitamin C may be a causal factor of halitosis. Smoking destroys Vitamin C and contributes to bad breath.

You can also employ baking soda for brushing your teeth. The characteristics of baking soda are helpful in destroying odors. Hence, baking soda is placed in refrigerators and is sprinkled on carpets before they are vacuumed. There are many brands of toothpaste available that have baking soda and are not as bad as having to plunge your toothbrush in the baking soda box.

Then there is the water pik.  A water pik helps to dislodge the food particles wedged between the teeth and is therefore beneficial in combating bad breath. You can buy a water pick that has batteries so that it is portable.

When buying mouthwash, try to look for one that has zinc chloride and cetylpyridinium chloride. A mouthwash that does not have these ingredients will only hide the odor for a limited time. It will not provide long-lasting results; bad breath will just come back. You can also consider using hydrogen peroxide. It works great as a mouthwash since it releases oxygen, which the anaerobic bacteria in our mouths cannot tolerate. ]]></description>
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<title>Top Confidence Killer- Bad Breath</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/top-confidence-killer--bad-breath.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/top-confidence-killer--bad-breath.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Chronic bad breath, medically known as halitosis, is a major deterrent in social situations. Sufferers of this embarrassing condition are extremely self-conscious, probably as much as the obese are aware of their weight.

Many people fear social situations and relationships because they know that their bad breath will cause people to shun them. The problem is so bad that some people give up their social life completely, because they have previously been rejected due to halitosis. Finally they just relinquish the social scene and sit at home alone and lonely.

In case you are one of the victims of halitosis, you may well know the pain of rejection if you have been refused a goodnight kiss or have been told off about your bad breath. You will be aware of the social concerns caused by this perennial problem and also feel guilty because you are yourself the cause of the affront.

If you were to know that your halitosis is treatable and preventable and you do not need to suffer from this embarrassing condition any more, you can lead a better social and work life. There are now new treatments for bad breath. Though there are many over the counter treatments available, there are some which can be got only on prescription.

As a matter of fact, some of the non-prescription remedies contain a blend of natural and herbal ingredients for people who prefer those. Alternatively, there are other, more conventional, treatments also available and the best person to tell you about them would be your dentist. You can ask your dentist for his or her recommendations for treatments for bad breath during the course of your next visit.

The dentist can either guide you by giving you prescription medicines or if he has heard of any other treatments in over the counter medicines. The Internet is another source of information for this treatable problem. A search for halitosis will yield thousands of hits to links on the subject, its causes and its treatments.

It is also important to follow some simple guidelines to fight halitosis and regain your self confidence. You must remember to brush your teeth after every meal as a matter of routine. Do not forget to brush you gums and tongue as well and rinse well after that. If you are using mouthwash, then use an alcohol free one because alcohol dries out the inside of your mouth and prevents the production of protective bacteria which would otherwise protect you from bad breath.

Do remember that flossing at least once a day is extremely important. It removes the debris between your teeth which can otherwise lead to bacteria formation and cause bad breath. Similarly, brushing your tongue is equally important for the same reason. It is usually the bacteria which is the root cause of the horrible halitosis that makes people shun you.

Apart from poor oral hygiene, there are many underlying causes for bad breath. If you know what they are, it will help you deal with the situation as well as rectify the actual cause of the bad breath. Do you know that halitosis can be in indirect result of diabetes which causes gum disease? Then again, gastrointestinal problems, too, can be contributory factor to the bad breath problem. Liver diseases, too, can cause halitosis.

It is important that you invest the time and trouble to find out the cause of the halitosis and if, in the course of that, you need to change your diet, do so. You will have to eat healthier foods and foods which are not too strong tasting, avoiding raw onions, garlicky foods, pungent fishy dishes or heavily spiced foods, unless you are home alone and certainly not on a date! ]]></description>
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<item>
<title>Get Rid Of Bad Breath With The Proper Bad Breath Treatments</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/get-rid-of-bad-breath-with-the-proper-bad-breath-treatments.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/get-rid-of-bad-breath-with-the-proper-bad-breath-treatments.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ Often when you suffer from bad breath you may not realise it at first and quite often your friends or family may be hesitant to tell you that you have bad breath as they would not want to embarrass you.  A true friend however, will tell you, as it is in your best interest to know so that you can take steps to rectify the problem. 

It can be embarrassing when you find out that you have bad breath and you may become less social because of your embarrassing situation.

Sometimes having bad breath may also leave you with a bad taste in your mouth, so it is possible that you may become aware of the problem on your own. If you have a bad taste or for any reason think that you may have bad breath you can do a little test to smell for yourself.  Scrape your tongue with a spoon or a piece of cloth and then smell it to see if it smells bad.  Or the other way to find out is to ask a close friend or family member.  I know this can be embarrassing but its best if you find out so that you can do something about the problem.

Some people get very embarrassed and even upset if they are told that they have bad breath, but there is really no reason to be embarrassed as it is quite a common problem. 

The usual reaction when finding out that you have bad breath is to obsessively brush your teeth and tongue and use mouth washes. Do not become obsessive but do take steps to take care of yourself by following these tips which should overcome a temporary bad breath problem.

    * Brush your teeth twice a day
    * Brush your tongue daily
    * Floss daily
    * Drink lots of water
    * Have a good clean by a dentist regularly

If you still continue to suffer from bad breath then it may be necessary to seek professional help.

The first person you should visit is your dentist.  Chronic bad breath could be caused by gum disease or bacterial build up.  You should have a good check up and mention the bad breath to your dentist so they can particularly look for anything that may be the cause.

If your dentist finds the cause of your bad breath then they will be able to treat the problem and rectify your bad breath problem.

If your dentist cannot find a cause for your bad breath then the underlying cause could possibly be an internal condition and you will need to visit your doctor or your dentist may be able to refer you to an expert in the appropriate field.

Your dentist, doctor or specialist should be able to uncover the cause of your bad breath which could possibly be something as simple as an allergy.  Once you have identified the cause then you can take the necessary steps to eliminating the cause and therefore eliminate the bad breath. ]]></description>
</item>
<item>
<title>Change Your Bad Breath to Better Breath Right Now</title>
<link>http://www.populate.net/Health/change-your-bad-breath-to-better-breath-right-now.html</link>
<guid>http://www.populate.net/Health/change-your-bad-breath-to-better-breath-right-now.html</guid>
<pubDate>Mon, 15 Sep 2008 00:00:00 -0700</pubDate>
<description><![CDATA[ If you have ever tried to give your date a kiss and he or she puts a hand up to protect himself (herself) from your vile breath, you know how that feels. Probably that person did want your kiss, but was put off by your bad breath. What are the ways of fighting this disorder apart from daily brushing and flossing?

Instead of just checking out all possible medications and therapies, it is necessary to find out what is the cause of the halitosis. Do keep in mind that particular foods, tobacco, periodontal problems and a dry mouth (xerostomia) can all be causative factors leading to bad breath.

Lots of people drink coffee which, coupled with morning breath, leads to dehydration, less flow of saliva and all these lead to more bad breath. This does not mean that you have to give up your morning coffee forever. There are some things you can do to get rid of bad breath for good.

Talking about dry mouth, do you know that alcohol, too, causes dehydration? That is why you feel thirsty for water after drinking. Alcohol dries up the saliva which fights bacteria which causes bad breath. Because of increased alcohol consumption, chances of halitosis also increase and then your romance goes for a toss. Help your self combat this problem by chewing sugarless gum and do not forget to drink water. Chewing gum helps increase the flow of saliva.

Daily brushing, tongue cleaning, flossing and a thorough rinsing should be an unavoidable part of your routine. Ideally this should be done after every meal or even every time you have eaten anything. Once again, eating proper foods helps in fighting bad breath. A diet which is rich in fruits and vegetables will help produce acid as also fiber which will prevent bad breath.

When you go to a shop or supermarket and see what is available for oral hygiene you will be surprised and bewildered at the sheer choice of products which are used to combat bad breath. All products are not equally good and, in fact, many over the counter products may not actually kill the bacteria which reside on your tongue. If the halitosis is a chronic and recurring problem, these products may not do any good at all. Or they may help merely by making your breath a little better for a short time. But mouthwashes which contain zinc chloride can be of great help, as can prescription products, in doing a good job.

A simple remedy is hydrogen peroxide used as a rinse because it adds oxygen and the bacteria do not live in a hostile environment which is what oxygen is for the anaerobic bacteria. Plain water, too, helps in removing debris and food particles which are stuck between the teeth and gums and on the tongue. If you do not use any of these remedies, then you are leaving yourself open to the bacteria multiplying and causing bad breath.

Your diet has an important role to play in the characteristic of your breath. The typical Western American diet can be an important cause of bad breath, especially if it is high caloric. A low calorie diet will not only help you lose weight, but also give you the added bonus of decreasing the incidence of bad breath.

Often, when you are eating out, especially in fine dining restaurants, the meal will be garnished with parsley which not only looks good, but also has a beneficial effect on your breath. It contains stuff which helps fight bad odor. So the next time do not disregard the parsley or throw it away, but eat it after your food as a mouth freshener. ]]></description>
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