Keto Breath: Where It Comes From and 4 Ways to Get Rid of It

Keto breath is a common and unfortunate side effect of the keto diet. We’ll tell you where keto breath comes from, and four ways to get rid of it.

If you are following a keto diet, you may experience keto breath. Keto breath leaves a distinct taste in the mouth that some people describe as having a metallic or fruity smell. It occurs when the body is in a state of breaking down fat supplies for energy. Fatty acids are then converted into ketones, which are what give the breath a distinct odor. Ammonia and acetone are two examples of ketones.

This is a common side effect of the keto diet because your carbohydrate intake is restricted. Keto breath usually goes away on its own as your body adjusts to eating fewer carbohydrates. Keto breath is different from halitosis, which is caused by sulfur-producing bacteria in the mouth. Halitosis is commonly caused by poor dental hygiene, tobacco products and certain foods. Keep reading to find out four remedies to get rid of keto breath. 

1. Drink More Water

It is important to stay hydrated throughout the day, especially if you are on a keto diet. Drinking more water will allow your body to flush out the ketones that are giving your breath its distinct odor. Try our lemon water recipe. Lemon freshens your breath and kills odor-causing germs in your mouth.

2. Lower Your Protein Intake

Although the keto diet is centered around eating lots of protein, too much protein can make keto breathe worse. When the body breaks down protein, it creates ammonia, one of the odor-causing ketones. Try eating a different source of protein, like fish, which will vary how much fatty acid you are consuming. 

3. Increase Your Fat Intake

If you are suffering from keto breath, you may also want to increase your fat intake. One study found that increasing the amount of fat in the diet releases less ammonia and acetone, two ketones produced when the body breaks down fat supplies for energy. Foods you can add to your diet that are full of healthy fats include avocados, nuts and coconut. 

4. Boost Your Oral Hygiene

Although keto breath is not caused by poor dental hygiene, keeping your mouth fresh throughout the day can help make your breath better. On top of brushing your teeth twice daily, you may want to brush them after each meal. Practice flossing, using a mouth wash and cleaning your tongue to make sure your mouth is free from bacteria that cause bad breath.

Read more: 

• 20 Rice Alternatives for Any Diet or Dish
• How to Make Keto Cauliflower Rice
• Why You Should Eat Watermelon Rind — and How to Prepare it

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