We’ve all heard the phrase, you are what you eat. And it’s true in more ways than you think. Were you aware that some foods you consume contain sulfur compounds that can be absorbed into the bloodstream and excreted through sweat, contributing to a distinct odor? Other foods can increase sweating, and while sweat itself doesn’t smell, the way it reacts with the bacteria on your body can cause it to emit an unpleasant odor. However, other foods can help neutralize or reduce these odors.
Before we list the foods that help improve your natural body odor, here are some foods that tend to exacerbate it. Keep in mind that we’re not suggesting that you should cut out these foods! These foods contain essential nutrients that your body needs and are beneficial for your overall health. All we are suggesting is that you have them in moderation.
“Moderation. Small helpings. Sample a little bit of everything. These are the secrets of happiness and good health.” – Julia Child
P.S.: If you notice a sudden change in body odor, it could be a sign of a medical condition that you should consult a professional about. Harvard Health also has an article that can further assist you on this matter.
The Culprits:
Overconsumption of spicy foods, red meats, caffeine, and alcohol can increase sweat production, which is generally unpleasant regardless of scent. Sweat can become unpleasant when it reacts with the bacteria present on your skin, resulting in a foul body odor.
You should also watch out for foods with sulfur compounds. Garlic, onions, and cruciferous vegetables (like broccoli and cabbage) contain sulfur compounds that can be absorbed into the bloodstream and released through sweat.
Foods That Reduce Bad Body Odor:
1. Fruits High in Vitamin C:
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that is naturally found in various foods and plays a crucial role in maintaining good health. Apart from its many health benefits, vitamin C is also known to help fight bad body odor. It works by neutralizing the odor-causing bacteria, making it difficult for them to thrive. This chemical reaction between vitamin C and bacteria alters the composition of sweat, reducing the production of smelly compounds and thereby preventing body odor.
Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes are excellent sources of vitamin C. Other fruits like strawberries, pineapples, kiwis, and mangoes also contain this essential nutrient in varying amounts. Consuming these fruits regularly can help boost your vitamin C levels, which in turn can help keep bad body odor at bay.
2. Fresh Herbs
Fragrant herbs like parsley, mint, basil, and cilantro contain natural antibacterial and cooling properties that can positively impact your body’s odor when consumed. These herbs contain compounds that neutralize odor-causing bacteria and reduce body temperature, which can contribute to sweating and body odor.
Adding generous amounts of fresh herbs to your salads, smoothies, dips, and other dishes is always recommended for health reasons; now you can add them to help you smell better.
3. Green Tea
Green tea helps regulate body temperature, which in turn helps control body odor, but its benefits aren’t limited to consumption. Green tea targets bacteria on the skin that produce unpleasant smells. Applying green tea compresses to areas prone to body odor, such as the armpits, can help reduce sweating and minimize odor.
In addition to addressing body odor, green tea also benefits oral health. Its catechins disrupt bacterial cell membranes, inhibiting growth and potentially enhancing the efficacy of antibiotics. Green tea also helps combat bad breath by reducing volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) and preventing bacterial adhesion in the mouth, particularly when consumed after meals.
4. Probiotic Foods
While probiotics don’t have a direct effect on body odor, they do improve digestion and gut health. This, in its turn, contributes to reducing body odor in general.
A healthy gut microbiome influences the production of odor-causing compounds. Certain gut bacteria can generate substances like hydrogen sulfide and trimethylamine, which contribute to unpleasant smells when excreted through sweat. However, a balanced gut prevents the overgrowth of these bacteria, thereby reducing the production of these odorant compounds.
5. Pineapple
Pineapple is a juicy and tropical fruit that is not only delicious but also has several health benefits. One of the most impressive benefits of this fruit is the presence of an enzyme called bromelain. This enzyme is known for its natural deodorizing properties and can help break down odor-causing compounds in your body.
Whether it’s consumed in its raw form or taken in the form of juice, pineapple can work wonders in keeping your body smelling fresh and sweet. So, if you want to enjoy a natural and healthy way to deodorize your body, then pineapple is the way to go.
6. Fennel & Celery
Both fennel and celery offer potential benefits for reducing body odor. Celery is believed to contain compounds that neutralize odors and even produce pheromones for a more pleasant scent.
Fennel boasts antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, tackling odor-causing bacteria and inflammation in the body. Furthermore, fennel supports healthy digestion and reduces gas.
7. Stay Hydrated
It is essential to maintain proper hydration throughout the day by drinking an adequate amount of water. Apart from its numerous health benefits, water also plays a crucial role in reducing body odor. When we sweat or urinate, odor-causing compounds get concentrated in these excretions, making us smell unpleasant.
However, drinking at least eight glasses of water every day helps in flushing out these compounds and keeps body odor at bay. Therefore, staying adequately hydrated is not only essential for our overall health but also for maintaining personal hygiene.
Of course, these foods alone won’t work miracles if you have poor hygiene habits. Be sure to practice good daily grooming habits, such as showering, using antibacterial soap, changing into fresh clothes, and applying deodorant & perfume. Find your favorite fragrances with the help of the best perfume store in the UAE and GCC. Our extensive collection has something for everyone.
