Body odor, an unpleasant smell emitted by our bodies, is caused by bacteria on the skin breaking down sweat into acids. Contrary to common belief, it’s not the bacteria growing on the body but the breakdown of sweat by bacteria that leads to body odor. Typically beginning at puberty, body odor is more common in overweight individuals, those with specific dietary habits, and people with certain medical conditions. Human sweat itself is nearly odorless; it’s the conversion of sweat into acids by bacteria that produces the unpleasant smell known as body odor. Common areas for body odor include the armpits, groin, genitals, feet, and other skin regions with aprocrine glands that secrete sweat.

To address body odor, consider the following home remedies:

1. Proper Hygiene

Maintaining regular and thorough showering and bathing is crucial for preventing body odor. If already experiencing body odor, diligent scrubbing with a bath sponge is essential, particularly in stubborn areas like the armpits.

2. Watch Your Diet

Certain foods can exacerbate body odor, but adopting an overall healthy diet can help reduce unpleasant smells. Foods to avoid include high-fiber vegetables, asparagus, garlic, onions, cumin, curry, and seafood. Additionally, limiting consumption of fast foods, processed foods, fried foods, and those high in saturated and trans fats can contribute to controlling body odor.

3. Avoid Alcohol

Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to body odor as alcohol is metabolized into acids by the liver, which are then released through sweat and breath.

4. Maintain Gut Health

Poor gut health or a leaky gut can result in various health issues, including body odor. Probiotics, available as supplements or in probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, fermented soy products, sauerkraut, kimchi, sourdough, almonds, olive oil, and kombucha, can promote a healthy gut.

5. Use Antibacterial Soap

Since bacteria feasting on sweat causes body odor, using antibacterial soap can help eliminate some of the bacteria responsible for the unpleasant smell.

6. Keep Yourself Dry

While challenging, especially in warmer climates, keeping yourself dry is crucial in preventing body odor. Pay attention to areas where you sweat heavily and take necessary measures, such as carrying an extra shirt for armpit sweat or changing socks for foot sweat.

7. Clean Your Clothes Properly

Thoroughly washing clothes worn on days with significant body odor is essential. Using a good laundry detergent and washing at higher temperatures (around 60°C) can effectively eliminate bacteria causing bad smells.

By adopting these home remedies, you can effectively manage and reduce body odor.