Fruits, herbs and yogurt can help reduce body odor thanks to natural antibacterial mechanisms
Keeping the body fragrant does not only rely on perfume or shower gel. What appears on the plate every day can make a difference, from breath to sweat. Many nutritional studies show that increasing fruits, vegetables, herbs and probiotic-rich foods makes the body more comfortable, while limiting unpleasant odors from meat and ultra-processed foods.
5 foods that make you more fragrant every day
Apples, natural towels for breathing
According to Megan Wroe, a nutritionist at Providence St. Petersburg Medical Center. Jude (USA), apples are rich in antioxidants that act as a "launder", helping to clean plaque and bacteria when chewed directly. This helps to remove bad breath.
Dr. Heewon L. Gray, a nutritionist at the University of South Florida, said that apples contain many polyphenols, compounds that can inhibit sulfur-based bacteria, one of the main causes of bad breath.
Oranges and fruits rich in carotenoids
Research shows that people with high carotenoid levels in their skin, a sign of eating a lot of fruits and vegetables, often have a more pleasant smell of sweat. Dr. Gray said that oranges, mangoes, melons and papaya are all rich in carotenoids, which give a natural mild aroma.
Oranges, lemons and lemon also have acids that help kill bacteria that cause bad breath, while also supporting digestion thanks to their rich fiber and water content.
Whole yogurt, probiotics help reduce odor
Dr. Gray says that supplementing probiotics from plain yogurt helps balance the gut microbiome, thereby reducing the production of odor-causing metabolites. Some studies have also shown that yogurt can significantly reduce bad breath, thanks to controlling the growth of bacteria in the mouth.
Fresh plant algae, from fragrant to disinfectant
Basil, mint, rosemary and parsley contain antioxidants and natural essential oils. Wroe said that when chewed, the essential oil is released, creating a clean and fragrant feeling similar to mint candy. silver hawan also contains polyphenols that help reduce sulfur compounds that cause bad breath. Some studies show that chewing raw mint leaves or using mint essential oil can reduce odor-causing bacteria.
Nuts, nourish the skin, reduce sweat odor
Cashews, flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds and walnuts are rich in zinc, plant-based omega-3s and vitamin E. Dr. Gray explains that these nutrients help stabilize skin lipids, reduce sweat oxidation, and contribute to odor. Wroe especially mentioned fennel seeds: chewing seeds helps clean the mouth, stimulate saliva and support deodorification in the intestines thanks to antioxidants.
However, experts recommend limiting ultra-processed foods, fatty meats and fragrant onions. A low-fiber diet can easily cause bloating and indigestion, causing the body to "smell" more. prevention is always better, but just a few options at the right time can give you more immediate confidence, Wroe says.
