Do You Face Problems With Body Odour?

Body odor is an embarrassing situation that a few of us may experience. It can put you in an awkward moment at your workplace and have social implications if left unchecked.

Body odor results from bacterial growth that occurs as a result of the secretion from sweat glands. There are many physiological reasons for the sweat glands to produce more sweat comprising diet, mood, medical conditions, and hormone levels.

Hyperhidrosis- Excessive sweating

In Hyperhydrosis, the nerves that are responsible for triggering sweat glands become overactive and this leads to more perspiration even when it's not needed. This problem worsens when one is under stress or is nervous. Hyperhydrosis that occurs in the palms and soles may have a genetic component.

Tips to combat body odor

Drink plenty of water

This helps to dilute sweat and urine, both of which contribute to body odor.

Say yes to greens

Include whole grains, green leafy vegetables, and fruits which provide the high fiber that helps remove wastes from the body and cleanses the digestive system.

Avoid pungent foods

Avoid high amounts of pungent foods like garlic, onions, and also red meat as it may aid in producing more body odor.

Wear the right colors

Wear light-colored, loose cotton clothes to soak sweat and deflect sun rays. Body odor lingers on clothes, so wash clothes after every use and avoid polyester fabrics especially in summer. Change socks and undergarments daily. Clothing made of cotton and linen is more absorbent and can soak in sweat better.

Bathe daily

Bathe regularly and if possible, two times a day. You must bathe after working out or playing any sport.

Shave underarm hair

Underarms tend to accumulate more sweat. Removing hair from underarms can help to prevent sweat rings. Personal hygiene goes a long way in controlling your body odor.

Use deodorant

Deodorants do help to mask body odor. Some people have strong body odor, and deodorants or perfumes do not work on them. Also, for some with sensitive skin, deodorants can cause skin irritation. In such cases, use antibacterial soaps. Talcum powder also helps to absorb sweat.

Not-so-natural ways to consider (To control excessive sweating that causes body odor)

• Antiperspirants: Special over-the-counter or prescription sprays, lotions, and roll-ons can help control symptoms.
• Iontophoresis: This treatment uses low-level electrical impulses to disable the sweat glands temporarily. Patients usually have 2-3 sessions a week and each session lasts for about 20 minutes. Some may require sessions once a week or month.
• Medications: Some drugs can stop the sweat glands from kicking into action.
• Botox: Injections of Botox can temporarily stop the nerves from triggering excessive sweating. It is an approved way for the treatment of excessive underarm sweating.
• Surgery: One approach is to cut a nerve in the chest that triggers excessive sweating. And another way is to remove some of the sweat glands by surgery.

Consult your physician if your sweating is excessive to get the correct treatment. Please do not ignore it!