Why sweat sometimes stinks and what to do to make the odor change

Sweating is a natural function of the body to help regulate body temperature. In hot weather, when exercising or experiencing, our body sweats to cool. Often, however, sweat becomes an unpleasant phenomenon due to the smell that does not occur from the fluid itself, but due to the activity of the bacteria, when sweat in contact with the skin.

Sweat: Types of glands and their functions

There are two main types of sweat glands in our body – ecral and Apocrine; The ecral glands are located throughout the body and are actively involved in thermoregulation – their sweat is almost odorless. Meanwhile, the apocrine glands affect more stressful situations and are found in the armpits, groin and around the genitals. It is the sweat that releases protein and steroids, responding with bacteria on the skin that begins to emit a strong odor.

Why does sweat start to stink?

Sweat itself does not smell. Odor occurs when it interacts with skin bacteria – especially Corynebacterium and Staphylococcuswhich sweat substances into volatile fatty acids. These acids emit a pungent, unpleasant odor we know as “sweat stench”. Therefore, it is not enough to clean sweat alone – it is important to reduce both the number of bacteria and sweat nutrition.

What to do to make the odor weaker?

1. Wash dailyand after the shower, wipe carefully – especially the armpits, groin, and the toes.
2. Use antibacterial soapif normal hygiene does not help. However, do not overdo it – too frequent use can disrupt the natural microbiome of the skin.
3. Choose the right remedy – antiperspirant or deodorant; Antiperspirants reduce sweating and deodorants mask the smell. The best time to apply an antiperspirant is in the evening before bed.
4. Wear natural fabric clothesfor example, from cotton. Synthetic tissues tend to accumulate bacteria, especially in sportswear.
5. Shave your armpitsbecause the hair retains sweat and forms a bacterial -favored medium.
6. Limit spicy foodalcohol, garlic, onions – they can strengthen the smell of sweat.
7. Drink a lot of waterto restore fluid and electrolyte balance.

When do you go to the doctor?

If the smell of sweating is extremely strong, constant, and the measures do not help, the problem may be deeper – in hormones, liver or kidney function, even in rare genetic diseases such as trimethaylamicia. In this case, it is necessary to consult your doctor.

Remember: Sweat itself is not a source of odor – the problem is caused by bacteria. Thus, taking care of the right hygiene and lifestyle, the unpleasant odor can become the past.

Source: Uk. Media

Photos associative © canva.