Bushra Griffith
Body odor is a common issue that affects people at some point in their lives, and it is often caused by microbes on the skin that metabolize certain compounds in sweat. While the biochemistry behind body odor is not fully understood, it is believed that the odor can be attributed to the production of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and the breakdown of sweat proteins by bacteria. This process can result in a range of odors, including pungent, musky, cheesy, sour, onion-like, garlicky, and fecal or sulfuric scents. Interestingly, the perception of these smells as good or bad is highly subjective and can be influenced by cultural norms and expectations.
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What You'll Learn
Bromhidrosis, a medical condition causing offensive body odour
Bromhidrosis, also known as osmidrosis, ozochrotia, or bromidrosis, is a medical condition characterised by an offensive body odour that is often described as pungent, musky, sour, or even ammonia-like. The most noticeable symptom of bromhidrosis is a strong, persistent body odour that does not improve with regular hygiene practices such as showering and using deodorant. The odour typically adheres to clothing and may be more noticeable after exercise.
Bromhidrosis is caused by the interaction between sweat and skin bacteria, particularly when sweat contains high levels of lipids and proteins. The bacteria break down the sweat proteins, resulting in an offensive odour. While bromhidrosis can occur in various parts of the body, it typically affects areas with high concentrations of sweat glands, such as the armpits (axillary bromhidrosis) and feet (plantar bromhidrosis). The smell of bromhidrosis can vary depending on factors such as diet, hygiene, and the type of bacteria present on the skin. For example, the ingestion of certain foods, such as garlic, onion, curry, or alcohol, can contribute to the development of eccrine bromhidrosis.
There are two main types of bromhidrosis: apocrine bromhidrosis and eccrine bromhidrosis. Apocrine bromhidrosis is the most common form, typically affecting adults and localising in the armpits and/or anogenital region. It is caused by the interaction of lipid-rich sweat from apocrine glands with skin bacteria, resulting in the production of thioalcohols, which have a sulphur-like odour. Apocrine glands become active after puberty, which is why body odour typically begins during adolescence.
Eccrine bromhidrosis is a rarer form of bromhidrosis. Eccrine sweat glands are distributed across most of the body, including the palms, soles, head, and torso. Eccrine sweat is typically odourless as it is primarily composed of water and salt. However, when it mixes with bacteria, environmental factors, or metabolic waste, it can develop an unpleasant odour. Eccrine bromhidrosis may be caused by underlying metabolic disorders, disturbances in amino acid metabolism, or the ingestion of certain foods, drugs, or toxins.
Bromhidrosis can significantly impact an individual's quality of life, leading to anxiety, low self-esteem, and social withdrawal. While the condition is generally considered rare, it may be underreported, particularly in cultures where there is less stigma associated with body odour. Treatment options for bromhidrosis include prescription-strength antiperspirants or medications.
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Bacteria interacting with sweat, especially in high-concentration areas
Body odour is caused by the interaction of sweat and skin bacteria. While sweat itself does not smell, when bacteria on the skin mix with sweat, it can cause an odour. The odour can vary from person to person, depending on the type of bacteria on their skin and how it interacts with their sweat.
The most noticeable symptom of bromhidrosis, a medical condition characterised by abnormally offensive body odour, is a strong, persistent body odour that does not improve with regular hygiene practices like showering and using deodorant. The odour of bromhidrosis is often described as musky, sour, or even ammonia-like, and can smell like onions, cheese, or garlic. It is caused by the interaction between sweat and skin bacteria, particularly when sweat contains high levels of lipids and proteins.
Apocrine bromhidrosis is the most common type, with body odour typically concentrating in areas with high concentrations of sweat glands, such as the armpits and feet. Eccrine bromhidrosis is a rarer form, as eccrine sweat glands are found all over the body and eccrine sweat is mostly water and salt, so it does not naturally have a strong smell. However, when it mixes with bacteria, environmental factors, or metabolic waste, it can develop an unpleasant odour.
Factors such as diet, hygiene, and the bacteria present on the skin can influence body odour. For example, eating certain foods like spices or hot sauce can affect how much you sweat, which can indirectly impact body odour. Maintaining good hygiene practices, such as daily bathing or showering with antibacterial soap, can help to remove bacteria from the skin and prevent unpleasant body odour.
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Diet, which can cause bad breath and body odour
While there are multiple reasons for body odour, one of the most common causes is diet. The food we eat can cause bad breath and body odour, especially when consumed in large quantities.
Garlic and onions are common offenders, as they contain smelly sulphur compounds that linger in the mouth and are absorbed into the bloodstream, resulting in an unpleasant odour when you exhale. Similarly, dairy products can also cause bad breath due to the production of sulphur compounds. These compounds can make your breath smell sour, and the effect may be more noticeable if you follow a high-protein diet, as protein breakdown can also lead to bad breath.
Tinned fish, such as mackerel, anchovies, and tuna, can also be a culprit due to the oxidation process that occurs during canning. This can result in a strange odour that lingers in the mouth long after consumption. Citrus fruits and acidic vegetables, while essential for a healthy diet, can feed the bacteria in your mouth that causes bad breath. It is important to maintain a balance and offset these foods with non-acidic options to neutralise the effect.
In addition to these specific foods, very-low-calorie diets can also contribute to bad breath. These diets can lead to a condition called ketoacidosis, which is characterised by a fruity-smelling breath. Furthermore, dry mouth, or xerostomia, can be caused by very-low-calorie diets, high-protein diets, or certain medications, and this can promote microbial growth and result in bad breath.
While body odour can be influenced by various factors, maintaining a balanced diet and proper dental hygiene can help mitigate unpleasant odours. It is worth noting that if you suspect a medical condition, it is advisable to consult a doctor or dentist for further advice and treatment options.
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Yeast infections, which can be caused by unchecked candida
It is important to note that body odour can be influenced by various factors, including diet, hygiene, and the bacteria present on the skin. A cheese-like odour may be linked to specific bacteria, such as Staphylococcus epidermis, which can convert leucine in sweat into isovaleric acid, resulting in a cheesy smell. Additionally, certain medical conditions or infections can also cause unusual body odours. For example, bacterial vaginosis, trichomoniasis (an STI), and sinus infections can lead to changes in body odour.
To address a yeast infection caused by candida, it is recommended to consider a diet change to reduce sugar intake, as candida feeds on sugar. If a diet change does not help, antifungal and antibiotic medications may be necessary to eliminate the candida overgrowth. However, it is important to consult a doctor before taking any medication, as antibiotics may have complex effects on yeast growth. Maintaining proper hygiene, especially for items that come in direct contact with the skin, such as exercise clothing, is also crucial in managing body odour and preventing infections.
While body odour can be unpleasant, it is a normal and common issue that many people experience. The perception of odours as "good" or "bad" is subjective, and cultural factors also play a role in shaping our attitudes towards body odours and personal hygiene. Nevertheless, addressing any underlying causes of persistent or unusual body odours is essential for maintaining overall health and well-being.
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Metal piercings, which may not react well with your skin
The type of jewellery you wear can also influence the smell. Lower-quality jewellery made from certain metals, acrylic, or silicon may react with your skin and contribute to the odour. Additionally, non-porous materials can cause a build-up of odour if your piercing isn't receiving enough oxygen.
To prevent and address the cheesy smell, it is recommended to maintain a good hygiene routine. Clean your piercings daily, especially after working out, using a suitable cleanser or soap designed for body piercings. Rinsing with sterile saline solution or warm water in the shower can also help.
It is important to note that while the cheesy smell may be unpleasant, it is typically not a cause for concern. However, if the odour is accompanied by other symptoms such as yellow or green discharge, pain, or soreness, it may indicate an infection, and you should seek advice from a medical professional.
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Frequently asked questions
Body odor is a common issue that affects people at some point in their lives. If you smell like cheese, it could be due to a number of factors, including diet, candida (a fungal infection), diabetes, yeast infection, or the natural interaction between your sweat and skin bacteria.
Your sweat can smell like what you eat and drink. A diet high in sugar, for example, can lead to candida, a fungal infection that can cause a cheese-like body odor.
Candida is a fungal infection that can cause a cheese-like body odor. It is important to consult a doctor if you suspect you have candida, as it can lead to serious health issues if left untreated.
Yes, diabetes can cause fruity-smelling breath and changes in body odor. It is important to monitor any changes in your body odor, as it can be a sign of an underlying health condition.
There are a few ways to reduce body odor, including maintaining good hygiene, using deodorant or antiperspirant, and wearing clean clothing. In some cases, you may need to consult a doctor to rule out any underlying health conditions or to receive treatment for infections.
