Understanding Body Odor: Causes, Microbiome Connections, and Natural Solutions

We are getting closer to summer and that means warmer weather. For some people, this also means pulling out the extra strength deodorant and antiperspirant. But, is that really helping anything? Or does deodorant just mask the actual issues? Contrary to popular belief, sweat itself is odorless. The smell we associate with body odor arises when sweat interacts with bacteria on the skin, particularly in warm, moist areas like the armpits and groin.

We know that body odor primarily results from the interaction between sweat produced by the body’s glands and the skin’s microbiota, and not from the sweat itself. If it isn't the sweat then what is actually causing the "problem"? The key physiological contributors to strong body odor are the apocrine sweat glands, which become active during puberty and are concentrated in hair-bearing areas such as the armpits and groin. These glands secrete a viscous, protein-rich fluid that is naturally almost odorless. However, when this secretion is metabolized by skin bacteria especially species from the Corynebacterium, Staphylococcus, and Cutibacterium genera (which are normal skin flora) it is broken down into volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These bacteria break down components in sweat-especially proteins and fatty acids-into pungent-smelling byproducts such as isovaleric acid and thiols (sulfur compounds) which are responsible for the characteristic smells of body odor. The composition of an individual’s skin microbiota, genetics (notably the ABCC11 gene), sex, diet, health status, and hormonal changes all influence the intensity and quality of body odor. As an example, men typically have larger apocrine glands and more abundant Corynebacterium, leading to stronger, cheese-like odors, while stress or hormone fluctuations can trigger increased apocrine activity and intensify odor production. Thus, body odor is a complex interplay between sweat gland physiology, microbial metabolism, and individual biological and lifestyle factors.

One of the major detoxification pathways in the body is the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system also plays a critical role body odor, as well as its' roles in immune function and detoxification. It helps remove cellular waste and toxins through a network of lymph vessels and nodes. When the lymphatic system is sluggish or congested-due to dehydration, sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, or illness-toxic build-up can occur in the body. One consequence? These toxins may be excreted through the skin, intensifying body odor. Supporting lymphatic drainage through activities like dry brushing, massage, hydration, and exercise may help reduce body odor from the inside out by promoting more efficient detoxification.

There is also a "gut-skin-odor" connection that is very important. The gastrointestinal (GI) microbiome is a vast collection of bacteria, fungi, and other microbes in your digestive tract-has a profound influence on systemic health, including body odor. When the gut microbiome is imbalanced (a condition called dysbiosis), it can lead to:

- Diet high in protein and fats or poor digestion of proteins and fats, leading to the release of smelly compounds like ammonia or sulfur-containing gases.

- Overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria that produce volatile organic compounds, which may be

excreted through the skin.

- Increased body toxicity, which burdens detox pathways like the liver and skin.

A healthy, diverse microbiome supports optimal digestion and detoxification, thereby reducing the

internal sources of odor.

The carnivore diet, which consists almost entirely of animal products such as meat, eggs, and dairy,

can increase body odor due to the way animal proteins and fats are digested. When protein intake is

very high, the body produces more nitrogenous waste products like ammonia, which must be

eliminated through urine, breath, and sweat. In some cases, excess ammonia not fully cleared by

the kidneys may be excreted through the skin, contributing to a sharp or sour body odor.

Additionally, high consumption of red meat can lead to the production of sulfur-containing

compounds during digestion, which also have a strong, often unpleasant smell when released

through sweat. Another factor is the impact of the carnivore diet on the gut microbiome. A diet lacking in plant fiber

can reduce microbial diversity in the gastrointestinal microbiome and promote the growth of bacteria that produce foul-smelling gases.This microbial imbalance-called dysbiosis-can increase the production of compounds like trimethylamine (TMA), which is known to cause a fishy body odor in some individuals. Without the balancing effect of fiber-rich, plant-based foods that support detoxification and microbial harmony, the body may struggle to manage waste efficiently, leading to intensified body odor over time.

Chlorophyll, which is the green pigment found in plants, has long been used as a natural remedy for body

odor. But how does it work? Chlorophyll is thought to act as an internal deodorant by neutralizing odor-causing compounds in the gut before they can enter the bloodstream and be released through sweat. It also supports liver detoxification, which reduces the toxic burden on the body. Acting as a mild antimicrobial, helping to balance both gut and skin microbiomes. Chlorophyll is available in liquid, tablet, or capsule form, and can also be found in foods like parsley, spinach, wheatgrass, and chlorella. Many people report a noticeable improvement in body odor within a few weeks of regular supplementation. The most commonly used form for this purpose is sodium copper chlorophyllin, a water-soluble derivative that is more readily absorbed by the human body than natural chlorophyll. Several studies and anecdotal reports suggest that chlorophyllin can help control unpleasant odors in individuals with colostomies, incontinence, or chronic constipation, and may also reduce urinary odor. The proposed mechanism involves chlorophyllin’s ability to neutralize odor-causing compounds in the digestive tract before they are excreted, thereby minimizing their impact on body odor. Some users also report improvements in breath and underarm odor after regular supplementation. Beyond its deodorizing effects, chlorophyll is often marketed as a detoxifier, with claims that it supports antioxidant pathways, aids in the neutralization of free radicals, and promotes liver and intestinal health. Its antioxidant properties may help protect cells from oxidative stress and support overall well-being. Some studies have also linked chlorophyll supplementation to improved digestion and relief from flatulence, possibly due to its mild laxative effect, and its ability to bind to and help eliminate toxins from the body. Chlorophyll and its derivatives are believed to aid detoxification by binding to certain toxins and carcinogens within the digestive tract, thereby preventing their absorption and promoting their elimination from the body. This binding action is largely attributed to the unique chemical structure of chlorophyll, particularly its porphyrin ring, which allows it to interact with and sequester various harmful compounds, including some dietary mutagens and procarcinogens. When chlorophyll binds these substances, it forms complexes that are less likely to be absorbed through the gut lining, resulting in their increased excretion via feces. This mechanism has been supported by studies showing that chlorophyll and chlorophyllin can reduce the bioavailability of certain toxins, such as aflatoxins and heterocyclic amines, which are linked to cancer risk. Additionally, chlorophyll may enhance the body’s natural detoxification processes by supporting liver function and activating phase II biotransformation enzymes, which are responsible for converting fat-soluble toxins into water-soluble forms that can be more easily excreted. Its antioxidant properties also help mitigate oxidative stress and protect cellular components from damage caused by free radicals and environmental toxins. By both directly binding toxins in the digestive tract and bolstering the body’s enzymatic detoxification pathways, chlorophyll contributes to a multifaceted approach to reducing the overall toxic burden on the body., while chlorophyll’s role in detoxification and odor control is supported by some clinical and observational evidence, more research should be done to fully understand these benefits and as well as clarify the underlying mechanisms.

Body odor is more than skin deep-it's a reflection of your internal health, particularly the state of yourmicrobiome and detoxification systems. By addressing the root causes and supporting your body with tools like chlorophyll and microbiome-friendly habits, you can reduce odor naturally and effectively. Understanding your body's biology is the first step to managing odor in a way that supports long-term wellness. Let's summarize with some holistic tips to reduce or even eliminate body odor.

Holistic Tips for Reducing Body Odor Naturally

1. Support lymphatic health with regular movement, dry brushing, and hydration.

2. Eat a clean diet with fiber rich foods to promote healthy digestion and a balanced gut microbiome.

3. Limit processed foods, especially those high in sugar and additives, which can fuel harmful

bacteria.

4. Use natural deodorants that work with your skin's microbiome rather than masking odor with

chemicals.

5. Incorporate chlorophyll-rich foods or supplements into your routine.

What if your body odor isn't just a "hygiene" issue? What if it is a whisper from within, signaling imbalances in your body? What if it is a sign from your gut, lymphatic flow, or even your diet? Body odor is more than a surface level nuisance; it is a biological message, often pointing to deeper metabolic or microbial shifts. By tuning into that signal and supporting your bodies internal systems (particularly the the gut microbiome and the detoxification pathways) you can transform odor from an embarrassment into a sign of healing in progress. From chlorophyll to clean eating, the tools are simple but powerful. The next time you reach for deodorant or antiperspirant, consider going deeper. Your body might be asking for more than a cover up, it may be letting you know that it needs a change.

Let your skin-and your health-breathe easy.