Summer is approaching, and with it comes the inevitable sweat. There is absolutely nothing wrong with sweating, as it is your body’s way of regulating its temperature.
However, sweating can be a bit embarrassing and uncomfortable if it becomes excessive and stinky. The good news is that you can control the odor and prevent excessive sweating by watching what you eat.
What causes sweat to stink?
Sweat itself doesn’t actually smell. The reason why sweat stinks is that the bacteria on your skin feed on your sweat and produce an unpleasant odor.
Certain foods can cause your body to produce odorless sweat, while others can make your sweat stink even more. If you want to combat the scream of sweat, here are 10 foods that can help you smell fresh and clean all summer long.
1. Lemon water
Drinking lemon water first thing in the morning can help reduce body odor. Lemon has acidic properties that kill bacteria and neutralize odors.
Plus, drinking lemon water can also alkalinize your body, which makes it less hospitable for odor-causing bacteria.
2. Green tea
Green tea is a great source of antioxidants that reduce inflammation and fight bacteria. It also has catechins, a type of polyphenol that inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria.
Green tea has been shown to have antibacterial and deodorizing properties, so it’s a great beverage choice for those who sweat excessively.
3. Watermelon
Watermelon is not only refreshing on a hot summer day, but it can also help you combat the smell of sweat. The fruit is rich in citrulline, an amino acid that increases the production of nitric oxide.
Nitric oxide dilates blood vessels and promotes sweating, which can help flush out toxins from the body. Watermelon also has high water content, which helps keep you hydrated and prevents excessive sweating.
4. Mint
Mint has a refreshing aroma that can help mask body odor. It also has antiseptic and antibacterial properties that fight bacteria and keep your skin clean.
You can add mint leaves to your water or tea, or you can chew mint gum to freshen your breath and reduce body odor.
5. Sage
Sage is not only a popular herb in cooking, but it can also help you combat sweating and body odor. The herb has antiseptic and astringent properties that tighten pores and reduce sweat production.
Sage also has antibacterial properties that kill odor-causing bacteria and leave your skin smelling fresh. You can drink sage tea or add the herb to your cooking to reap its benefits.
6. Yogurt
Consuming probiotics can help improve your gut health and reduce body odor. Yogurt is a great source of probiotics, which help regulate the pH of your skin and keep odor-causing bacteria in check.
Plus, it’s a great snack that can help you stay cool and refreshed during the summer months.
7. Cucumber
Cucumber is another refreshing food that can help you combat sweating and body odor. The vegetable has high water content, which helps keep you hydrated and prevents excessive sweating.
Plus, it has a cooling effect that can soothe your skin and reduce body temperature. Cucumber also has silica, a mineral that strengthens connective tissues and improves the elasticity of your skin.
8. Ginger
Ginger has a warming effect on the body, which can help you regulate your body temperature and reduce sweating. The root also has antibacterial properties that fight odor-causing bacteria and leave your skin smelling fresh.
Ginger tea is a great beverage choice for those who sweat excessively, as it can help improve digestion and promote detoxification.
9. Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has acidic properties that kill odor-causing bacteria and balance the pH of your skin. You can dilute apple cider vinegar with water and use it as a natural deodorant, or you can drink it as a tonic to improve your overall health.
Apple cider vinegar is also great for improving digestion and reducing inflammation, so it’s a great addition to your daily routine.
10. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a rich source of antioxidants, which reduce inflammation and fight bacteria. They also have astringent properties that tighten pores and reduce sweat production.
Tomatoes contain lycopene, a potent antioxidant that protects your skin from damage and reduces the risk of cancer. You can add tomatoes to your salads, sandwiches, or smoothies to reap their benefits.
Conclusion
Sweating is a natural part of life, but it doesn’t have to be embarrassing or uncomfortable. By incorporating these 10 foods into your diet, you can combat the scream of sweat and smell fresh and clean all summer long.
Remember to stay hydrated, wear breathable fabrics, and practice good hygiene to keep body odor at bay.