- Catherine Maborukoje
- Body Odour
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While body odour is a normal part of being human, it can be influenced by various factors.
Body Odour stings. Ask anyone further, they can testify, it stinks. It is a natural and universal human experience. Though some people don’t call it natural, body odour is a result of the breakdown of proteins and fats in the body, which releases compounds that are then excreted through sweat. So, sweat causes body odour. But that was not all.
The mentioned compounds can come from various sources, including the food we eat, the bacteria that live on our skin, and even our genetic makeup.
While body odour is a normal part of being human, it can be influenced by various factors.
Diet is a significant contributor, as certain foods, such as those high in sulfur or spices, can release compounds that contribute to body odour.
In this article, we will explore the connection between certain foods and body odour, highlighting the top 10 foods that can contribute to this issue.
- Garlic and Onions
Garlic and onions are two of the most common ingredients used in many cuisines around the world. They do, however, contain sulfur compounds that may be released through the pores and cause body odour. The body breaks down these compounds and releases them through perspiration, which can give off an overpowering, disagreeable odour. A person who is prone to body odour might want to avoid eating too much garlic and onions or cook with other ingredients.
- Cruciferous Vegetables
Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and kale are examples of cruciferous vegetables, which are rich in compounds that contain sulfur. The body breaks these down and releases these compounds through sweat, which gives off an odour similar to rotten eggs. Even though these vegetables are healthy and beneficial to general health, some people may find that they aggravate body odor.
- Asparagus
Because of its high sulfur content, asparagus is another vegetable that can give off an unpleasant odour. Asparagus contains sulfur compounds, which the body breaks down and releases as sweat and urine, giving asparagus its unique smell. One may need to restrict their intake of asparagus or select other vegetables if they are sensitive to it.
- Spices
Some spices—cumin, cayenne, and horseradish—contain volatile substances that enter the bloodstream and are exhaled through perspiration. Particularly in those who are sensitive to them, these substances can exacerbate body odour.
- Red Meat
Many diets often include red meat as a source of protein. But the proteins in red meat have the ability to release odourless substances that combine with bacteria on the skin to amplify body odour. Although red meat is not intrinsically harmful, some people may experience an increase in body odour due to it.
- Seafood
Seafood is a nutritious and delicious addition to many meals. However, people with a rare metabolic disorder called trimethylaminuria may develop a fishy body odour after consuming seafood. Due to this disorder, the body is unable to properly break down certain compounds found in seafood, which results in an overpowering and disagreeable odour.
- Alcohol
Acetic acid, which is produced when alcohol is metabolized, can escape the body through the pores on the skin and through breath, which is one factor in body odour. Although it is generally safe to consume alcohol in moderation, binge drinking can have negative health effects, including body odour.
- Chili Peppers and Other Spicy Foods
Spicy foods like chili peppers can raise body temperature and cause sweating, which can release compounds that cause odour. This is a result of the capsaicin in chili peppers stimulating the sweat glands, which increases perspiration and causes an unpleasant odour on the body.
- Brassicas
Broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage are examples of brassicas. These vegetables have sulfurous compounds in them that, when broken down, can give off an offensive smell. Sweat releases these chemicals, which in certain people can be a factor in body odour.
- Beans and Legumes
Legumes and beans are widely used in many diets as a source of fiber and protein. Nevertheless, eating these foods may cause body odour in those who have trimethylaminuria. This is because beans and legumes have distinct chemical breakdown processes in the body that result in an overpowering odour.
By limiting or avoiding the top 10 foods that can cause body odour, one can reduce the risk of experiencing this issue. Additionally, practicing good hygiene and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can also help to minimize body odour.
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