Causes of body odor

Body odor is related to hygiene issues, but it can also be caused by food, infections, and hormonal changes.

The body has two main types of sweat, the most common being apocrine, which involves sweat glands in the armpits and genital area. The other type is eccrine, with sweat glands located throughout the body. Unpleasant odor is usually caused by sweat mixing with bacteria on the skin and can be influenced by many factors. Below are some causes of body odor.

Food

Garlic, onions, and spicy foods can speed up the body's metabolism, increasing sweating. Asparagus, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts can allow bacteria to produce more sulfur-containing compounds, creating odor on the skin. Alcohol also gives the body a fruity smell due to its conversion to acetone.

Sweating a lot

Excessive sweating can be genetic, the result of an underlying health condition, or a side effect of certain medications such as antidepressants, diabetes medications, thyroid medications, painkillers, and antibiotics.

Unpleasant odors are often caused by sweat mixing with bacteria on the skin. (Image: Freepik) — Unpleasant odors are often caused by sweat mixing with bacteria on the skin. (Image: *Freepik)*

Skin infections

Skin infections are often accompanied by symptoms such as redness, inflammation, or the appearance of white, yellow, or red discharge on the skin. The skin may also feel warm to the touch around the reddened area.

Skin infections that can cause sour body odor include bacterial infections on the surface of hair follicles, intertrigo infections caused by the bacterium Corynebacterium minutissimum, and purulent bacterial dermatitis.

Hormonal changes

Hormones change during different stages of life, such as puberty, menopause, pregnancy, or the postpartum period. Sweat glands may become overactive, leading to increased body odor, especially in some individuals.

If you notice an increase in body odor when consuming certain foods, you may want to eliminate those foods from your diet.

People who drink alcohol regularly or in large quantities should consider cutting back. This can help reduce body odor but also avoid other negative effects of alcohol consumption.

People who sweat a lot should change their clothes after exercising. This helps reduce moisture and prevent infections on the buttocks. Prioritize clothing made of cotton or other breathable fabrics to allow sweat to evaporate naturally, preventing bacterial growth.

Huyen My (According to Livestrong )

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