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Taking a bath or a shower regularly is an integral part of personal hygiene. This not only keeps infections away but also plays a role in controlling body odour. However, for some people, regular showers may not do the trick, and they may continue smelling bad. This could be due to various underlying reasons. In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Shrey Srivastava, Senior Consultant – Internal Medicine, Sharda Hospital, Noida, discusses some of these key factors and shares ways to approach them.
Medical Conditions Could Be To Blame
It may be interesting to learn that in older days doctors examined their patients' diseases by sniffing them. It was believed that certain illnesses had distinct smells. Research published in The Journal of Biochemistry suggests that some diseases have unique smells because the human body gives off many types of smells, known as Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), which can change based on a person’s health.
“Persistent body odour can be caused by medical conditions like diabetes (due to ketones), liver or kidney disease (toxins not properly eliminated), hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), and trimethylaminuria ("fish odour syndrome"),” says Dr Srivastava.
He adds that hormonal disorders, such as thyroid problems, and certain infections can also alter body odour despite normal hygiene.
How Diet Influences Body Odour
Our diet also plays a major role in regulating our body odour. No matter how often you bath or shower, if you aren’t eating right or are eating excess of something, your body is likely to suffer. According to Dr Srivastava, foods like garlic, onions, red meat, and spicy dishes release sulphur-containing compounds or amines that can be excreted through sweat.
Additionally, high alcohol or caffeine intake can also worsen odour, the doctor shares, adding that even with good hygiene, strong-smelling foods may cause noticeable body odour due to metabolic breakdown. This occurs when the body breaks down food, nutrients, or other substances like fats, proteins, or drugs to produce energy or to eliminate waste.
Role Of Bacteria
Unfortunately, specific skin bacteria are linked to stronger body odour too.
"Corynebacterium species and some Staphylococcus strains break down sweat into pungent-smelling compounds,” explains Dr Srivastava, elaborating that these bacteria thrive in warm, moist areas like armpits. In fact, the interaction between skin microbiota and sweat components largely determines individual odour intensity and characteristics, the doctor warns.
How To Manage Persistent Body Odour
Beyond showering, Dr Srivastava recommends using antibacterial soap, applying antiperspirants, wearing breathable fabrics, and shaving body hair to reduce bacterial buildup, which in turn can help reduce bad body odour.
It is also crucial to maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and manage stress. In severe cases, treatments like botox, prescription medications, or laser therapy can reduce sweat and odour, he adds.
Also Read: Probiotic Deodorant For Body Odour: How Are They Useful And How To Make It At Home
When To See A Doctor
For people wondering, it is crucial to visit a doctor if the body odour is sudden, unusually strong, or accompanied by other symptoms like weight loss, fatigue, or skin changes. According to the doctor, it could indicate metabolic disorders, infections, or systemic illnesses.
Dr Srivastava concludes that early evaluation helps identify underlying causes and ensures appropriate treatment if needed.