Body odor is a strong smell that is almost immediately noticeable, especially after sweating. In any case, it can be quite embarrassing for someone when people point out the problem. Persistent body odor should be checked out as it can also indicate developing health compilations linked to vital organs. Here are a few common reasons that explain why and how body odor may develop among men, women, and children.

1. Genetic Traits
For some people, producing excessive sweat, i.e., hyperhidrosis, can be an inherited condition. Excessive sweating may run in the family and as a result, the genetic trait is passed down to the next generation. It is also one of the primary reasons for body odor as the sweat evaporates releasing the odor in extreme heat or may accumulate on the fabric one is wearing. With hyperhidrosis, the sweating is usually concentrated to one’s hands, feet and armpits.

2. Health Complications
Body odor can be a side effect of many known medical conditions like diabetes, anxiety disorders, metabolic disorders, hormonal triggers, lung diseases, and even tuberculosis. Hyperthyroidism is a condition that results in adults developing an overactive thyroid gland, which can also trigger excessive sweating and body odor. This is mainly due to an imbalance in hormones caused by a hyperactive gland. Even side effects of certain medications given to treat condition like depression or seizures can result in body odor.

3. Food and Lifestyle Preferences
A diet that is rich in garlic, curry, cumin, asparagus, seafood, and even rich cruciferous vegetables can affect the body’s digestive processes and metabolism. Changes in the metabolic activities directly influence natural hormone levels in the body and as a result may trigger body odor problems. Excessive consumption of alcohol or substance abuse can trigger body odor problems as the sweat glands tend to exude these substances from the pores in the skin.

4. Stress
Stress raises the body’s core temperature, and the sweat glands immediately produce liquids in an effort to cool down from the outside. However, this sweat also reacts with bacteria present on the skin, and as the liquid evaporates, only the smelly residue remains on the surface. Stress can also trigger anxiety and result in one potentially developing a severe anxiety disorder. This odor, in most cases, it is the body’s automatic response to elevated stress and anxiety.

5. Lack of Personal Hygiene
Body odor may also be a result of poor daily hygiene habits. For example, not using good bath products, taking a quick shower, and not shaving armpits regularly are personal hygiene choices that add to body odor problems. Exercise and other strenuous activity can also release a lot of sweat. This is why medical professionals recommend a thorough rinse with good antibacterial products that scrub the surface clean and prevents any odor.