By Dr. Kathleen Regan, ND

While some meals leave you glowing, others have the power to transform your aroma in ways you might not expect. Ever caught yourself wondering, “Why do I suddenly smell… different?” As it turns out, the foods that make you smell might be the culprit behind this unexpected transformation.

Foods can make you smell due to the unique compounds they release when they’re digested or metabolized by your body. Some foods contain sulfur, like garlic, onions, and cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cabbage), which, when broken down, produce sulfur-containing gases. 

These gases can then be released through your skin or breath, giving you a novel odour. Spicy foods like curry or chilli can stimulate your sweat glands, making your body release more sweat, which can carry the pungent aromas with it. Foods high in certain acids, like coffee, can also affect your scent by altering the balance of bacteria on your skin or in your mouth. Even foods rich in strong flavors, like fish or cheese, can create compounds that seep through your pores, leaving you with a fragrance that sticks around longer than expected!

In some cases, the scent can also be tied to how your body is detoxifying. You will notice that some of the foods on this list below are considered medicinal foods and can even be found in the ingredient list of some natural supplements. Foods with active phytochemicals (medicinal properties) are more likely to cause changes in your body scent. If you are noticing a change in how you smell, take a look through the list below to see if one of these foods may be contributing. Make sure to check the label on any supplements you take!

Foods That Make You Smell: What to Watch for in Your Diet and Body Odor

Foods High in Sulfur:

  • Garlic: Contains sulfur compounds that are metabolized and can cause a noticeable odor.
  • Onions: Also high in sulfur, leading to a strong smell that can be emitted through sweat.
  • Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and brussels sprouts contain sulfur and can impact body odor.

Spices:

  • Cumin and Curry: These spices have strong odours that can seep through the pores after digestion.
  • Fenugreek: Known for its distinct smell, which can linger on the body.

Red Meat:

  • Takes longer to digest, leading to more perspiration and stronger body odour due to the breakdown of amino acids.

Alcohol:

  • Consumed alcohol is metabolized into acetic acid, which can be released through sweat, contributing to body odour.

Processed Foods:

  • High sugar and refined carbohydrates can lead to excessive sweat production, which can increase body odour.

Asparagus:

  • Contains asparagusic acid, which can cause a strong smell in urine and body sweat.

Fish:

  • Some fish, like tuna and salmon, contain choline, which can produce a fishy odour in some individuals.

Dairy:

  • For those who are lactose intolerant, consuming dairy can lead to bloating and flatulence, which can contribute to an overall body odor.

Coffee:

  • It can lead to increased perspiration and thus a stronger body odor due to the stimulant effect of caffeine.

Simple Tips to Keep Your Body Odor Fresh and Under Control

  • Maintain a Balanced Diet: Avoid foods that can contribute to strong body odor, such as garlic, onions, and red meat. Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help keep your body odor in check, as what you eat directly affects body odor after eating, with spices like curry and seafood sometimes having a noticeable impact.
  • Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out toxins naturally, reducing the chances of strong, unpleasant body odor. Proper hydration also helps break down the food digested by your body, preventing undesirable smells.
  • Practice Good Hygiene: Regular showers, using deodorant, and wearing clean clothes help manage body odor by preventing bacteria build-up, which can cause unpleasant smells, especially in areas like the armpits. Hygiene plays a significant role in minimizing body odor caused by various factors, including the food you eat and sweat.

Boost Your Health: Find Out Which Foods Impact Your Body Odor

At Innate Wellness, we’re committed to helping you achieve optimal health and well-being. If you’re concerned about the foods that make you smell or how what you eat affects body odor, we’re here to guide you. Certain foods can contribute to unpleasant body odor, but with the right advice and support, you can make healthier choices that help your body feel its best. If you’re ready to learn more about how your diet affects body odor, contact us today and take the first step towards a healthier lifestyle.