Bad breath, also called halitosis, isn’t always about poor brushing or flossing. In many cases, the gut is the hidden source. At Sheen Vein (Aesthetics and Functional Medicine) in St. Louis, we often find that digestive issues are the root cause of persistent bad breath.

Here are 5 signs your bad breath may actually be gut-related.

1. Bad Breath Plus Bloating

If you regularly experience bloating, gas, or abdominal discomfort along with bad breath, you may be dealing with gut dysbiosis or SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth).

2. Odor That Doesn’t Improve With Brushing

When brushing, flossing, and mouthwash don’t solve the problem, it’s a strong clue the odor is coming from deeper inside the digestive tract, not just your mouth.

3. Heartburn or Acid Reflux

Chronic reflux, also called GERD, can bring acidic or partially digested food back into the throat — often leaving a sour or unpleasant odor on the breath.

4. Constipation or Irregular Bowel Movements

When digestion slows, toxins and odor-producing compounds can build up in the gut and escape through the breath.

5. Symptoms of Food Sensitivities

If your breath worsens after certain meals — especially those high in sugar or processed carbs — it may reflect imbalances in gut bacteria linked to food intolerances.

Functional Medicine Approach at Sheen Vein

Instead of masking bad breath with mints or gum, our team looks for the root cause. We use advanced functional medicine testing to evaluate digestion, the gut microbiome, and the oral biome. From there, we create a personalized plan to restore balance, improve digestion, and freshen breath naturally.

Final Thoughts

If your bad breath is persistent and doesn’t improve with good oral care, your gut may be the real culprit. The good news is that restoring balance in the gut not only improves breath but also supports better overall health.

At Sheen Vein (Aesthetics and Functional Medicine) in St. Louis, we help patients uncover these hidden connections and find long-term relief.

Call to Action:
If you’re ready to get to the root of your bad breath, schedule a consultation at our St. Louis office today. Let’s restore both your gut health and your confidence.

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