As we all know, everyone has body odor. But have you ever thought it could be due to what you eat? While we often blame sweat for body odor, experts say your diet could be more impactful than you realize.

Body odor has recently been all over the internet with phrases like “old people smell” and “Ozempic smell” trending recently. But experts explain some commonly-eaten foods – even a handful of healthy foods – can change your body smell.

Certain foods impact a person’s body smell more than others, according to Erin Palinski-Wade, a registered dietitian in New Jersey. Body odor is not only dependent upon sweat, but also how the bacteria on our skin breakdown sweat; and some foods can make that process smellier.

1. Seafood and a Rare Medical Condition

Most people can typically digest seafood without thinking twice. There is a rare health condition, however, known as trimethylaminuria, where the body cannot digest a specific compound in seafood called choline. When this happens, mens’ skin can secrete a strong fishy smell that can also come out in one’s breath as well. The symptoms for this condition can also be triggered when eating certain foods beyond fish, such as beans, broccoli, cauliflower, peanuts, and soy.

Fortunately, this disease only impacts several hundred people globally, so it is extremely rare.

2. Vegetables That Can Affect Your Smell.

Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts are all healthy vegetables that can also create unwanted odors. These vegetables are known as cruciferous vegetables and are known to have a lot of sulfur-based compounds. When your body digests these vegetables, they release sulfuric acid that can be detected in your sweat, breath, and gas.

3. Spices That Linger.

Curry and cumin are favored for their taste, but they may have just as big of an impact on your smell. Spices contain volatile compounds that enter your bloodstream when consumed. Later, they are released through your sweat glands, making for a pungent smell. While the flavor is delicious, spicy foods can linger longer than we want them to — literally!

4. Red Meat.

Too much red meat can also lead to unwanted odors. The proteins in red meat do not smell until sweat mixes the proteins and bacteria on your skin – to generate an undesirable odor. Cutting back on red meat can help with body odor.

What You Can Do Instead

Depending on your body, genes, and the quantity of foods that you consume, not everyone will have extremely pungent smelling bodies. However, if you are concerned about how you smell, you can make it better by changing your diet.

Eat more fruits and vegetables, especially foods like apples, leafy greens, and yogurt. These foods will help neutralize the foul-smelling compounds and promote good gut health.

Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, it is best for flushing. Water helps to flush out toxins and keeps your body clean in general from the inside.

Do not eat red meat or other pungent or sulfur-rich foods if you have noticed you smell the strongest. Practice proper hygiene. Take showers regularly, use antibacterial soap, and wear breathable clothing.

Also Read: MAP Magic: Curious Way To Instantly Bring Down High BP

You could improve your overall lifestyle by becoming less stressed, sleeping more, and being active. A new lifestyle can improve your body scent.

In the end, you do not have to ditch your favorite foods altogether, but being aware of how your diet affects your scent and being smart with your choices may help make smell-friendly alternatives.

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