Oh! Those Smells!
How important is good hygiene? Let's face it, we all have those bad odor days - some of us may have worse ones than others. Sometimes you just can't help it, but the best way to keep them to a minimum is to practice good hygiene. And, knowing how your body works contributes to good hygiene.
The human body secretes natural fluids through glands. There are two main groups of glands: the endocrine glands, which secrete their products (hormones) into the blood stream, and the exocrine glands which discharge their secretions (sweat) through ducts or pores in the skin.
Sweat causes most of the unpleasant odors we associate with the body. The secreted fluids produce odors once they hit the air. The amount of fluid produced varies: vigorous play or exercise, being nervous or sick, or feeling pain all can increase in fluids from the sweat glands. What you eat can also affect your body's smell. Garlic is one of those foods. Some foods and medicines can cause intestinal gas. Though passing gas is a natural body function, most of us find it embarrassing depending on where you are when it happens.
Our bodies change physically during each stage of life. As we develop from child to adolescent to adult, the chemistry of our bodies changes. So, it is important to be aware that although body odors might not have been a problem for you last year, last month, or even yesterday, but it might be today!
We live in a society where perfumes, colognes, lotions, and other cosmetics are used to make us smell good, look attractive, and feel good about ourselves. However, no amount of sweet or flowery scents will cover up the odor of offensive body smells. Nor will breath mints, gum or sprays stop bad breath for very long.
Telling someone that they have bad breath or body odor is a very hard thing for most people to do. Even if that person is your best friend. But a good friend should find a tactful way to explain the problem. Think about that, wouldn't you want a friend to let you know?
Practicing good hygiene will help you avoid those embarrassing moments. Here are a few tips to help you stay healthy and fit.
Tips to good hygiene:
- Avoid morning breath - brush your teeth and tongue before leaving from home.
- Try to brush your teeth at least 3 times a day. Floss regularly.
- Shower or bathe daily, paying extra attention to areas of the body that can secrete stronger smells.
- Shower or bathe after playing sports, gym classes, or dancing.
- Wash your hair at least once or twice a week - more often if it is oily.
- Don't wear the same clothes more than two day's in a row without washing them.
- Wear clean underwear everyday.
- Change your socks often. Use foot powder if your feet sweat and smell.
- Girls - keep an extra supply of feminine hygiene products in their locker or bag.
- Clean and clip your fingernails and toenails.
- Use deodorant to help mask the smell of underarm odor.
- Avoid the use of too much perfume or cologne.
Healthy habits will make you feel good, look good, and smell better - then you can add that extra dab or squirt of cologne or perfume for good measure.
Note: There are times when there may be medical reasons why a person's body may have an unpleasant smell. If you feel you are doing everything possible to avoid body odor and nothing seems to be working, you should consult with a doctor or visit your local health center for a checkup.
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