This Is Why You Still Smell Bad Even After Showering Daily

Body odor is a a natural phenomenon caused by the breaking down of sweat by bacteria on the skin. Body odor is not always unpleasant, rather it is unique to each person. These odours aren't random; they tell us a lot about a person. But this is different from when we have a ‘signature scent’ or favorite perfume. Body odors can give clues about what we've eaten, if we're sick, or even how we're feeling. Scientists have found that people can sometimes guess someone's personality just by their scent. Here are some things that affect our body odor.

Everyday Factors That Impact Your Body Odor

Stress triggers an increased production of sweat from specific glands, which, when combined with bacteria, can result in an unpleasant odor. Furthermore, clothing made from synthetic materials, such as polyester, tends to retain odors more effectively than natural fabrics like cotton. Surprisingly, research suggests that individuals may perceive the body odor of others as more appealing if they share similar political beliefs. Finally, it's been observed that the human body may emit a distinct scent when experiencing fear, potentially acting as a detectable pheromone.

Spicy Foods

The Cleveland clinic explains that when you eat spicy foods, the strong smells can stick around in your mouth and even come out in your sweat. Foods like garlic and onions release chemicals that smell like sulfur, which can make your breath and body odor stronger. Also, foods with capsaicin, like hot peppers, can make you sweat more. To help with garlic breath, you can try eating apples, mint, or lettuce. They can help neutralize the bad smells.

Cruciferous Vegetables

Vegetables like cauliflower, cabbage, and broccoli, which some people didn't like as kids, release strong-smelling chemicals when you digest them. The Cleveland clinic explains these chemicals can make your sweat smell for up to six hours. But these veggies are healthy, so don't avoid them. You can lessen the smell by cooking them in salted water.

Meat Consumption

A 2006 study published in the Chemical Senses showed that people who eat a lot of meat might have a less pleasant body odor than those who eat more vegetables. The amino acids in red meat can leave a residue in the intestines during digestion. Meat can be harder to digest than other foods, and the body may work harder to process it, potentially leading to increased perspiration from sweat glands.

Medical Conditions That Can Cause More Body Odor

Diabetes

If your breath smells fruity, like nail polish remover, it could be a sign of a serious problem with diabetes. In a compilation of diseases by the Cleveland Clinic they explained that diabetes affects body odor. This happens when your body burns fat for energy because it doesn't have enough insulin.

Sleep Apnea

If you have bad breath in the morning, snore a lot, and feel sleepy during the day, you might have sleep apnea. This is when you stop breathing for short periods while you sleep. Mouth breathing during sleep can cause bad breath.

Ear Infections

Foul-smelling earwax may indicate an ear infection or other ear-related ailment. Avoid using cotton swabs to clean ears, as this can worsen the issue. Consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Trimethylaminuria (TMAU)

Trimethylaminuria is a rare genetic disorder that prevents the body from properly processing certain foods. This results in the emission of a distinct fishy or garbage-like body odor, impacting social and psychological well-being.