What is Keto?
If you haven't heard of the ketogenic diet before now, you probably love cookies and bread (same).
In recent years, the ketogenic diet has gained popularity as an effective way to shed weight and improve health. By drastically reducing carbs and increasing fat, the body enters a state of ketosis, burning fat for fuel instead of glucose. While the diet boasts numerous benefits, there is a less glamorous side effect that many followers experience – bad breath and body odor.
In this blog post, we will delve into the science behind this phenomenon and explore how to mitigate these unpleasant side effects while still enjoying the benefits of the ketogenic lifestyle.
Why does ketosis cause body odor?
Ketosis causes body odor due to the release of ketones through the sweat glands. As the body shifts from primarily using glucose for energy to relying on ketones, several factors contribute to this pungent keto bouquet:
- Changes in Sweat Composition: Carbohydrates play a role in regulating insulin levels, and when carbohydrate intake is reduced on the ketogenic diet, insulin levels decrease. As a result, the body excretes less water and electrolytes in the sweat, making the sweat more concentrated. This change in sweat composition can lead to a stronger, more pungent odor.
- Release of Ketones through Sweat: Alongside the acetone released in the breath during ketosis, the body also releases some ketones through the skin's sweat glands. The specific ketone responsible for this odor is the appropriately named acetone (ass-e-tōn). When it is secreted through the skin, it contributes to the distinct "keto body odor."
- Impact on Gut Bacteria: The ketogenic diet can influence the balance of gut bacteria due to the significant changes in dietary patterns. Shifts in gut bacteria can lead to changes in body odor, as certain bacteria play a role in metabolizing compounds that contribute to odor.
- Individual Variations: Not everyone on the ketogenic diet experiences the same degree of body odor. The intensity and type of B.O. can vary from person to person, depending on their unique physiology and how their body responds to the diet.
Tips to Combat Bad Breath and Body Odor from Ketosis
Just because you have B.O. doesn’t mean you have to quit keto. There are several ways to fend off this unfortunate side effect of ketosis.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking water can help flush out excess ketones, reducing the intensity of keto breath and body odor.
- Practice Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth, floss, and use mouthwash regularly to cut down on keto breath.
- Increase Carb Intake Slightly: If the side effects persist and become bothersome, consider adding a small amount of healthy carbs to your diet. This may be in the form of low-carb vegetables or whole grains.
- Chew Sugar-Free Gum or Mints: Opt for sugar-free gum or mints to help freshen your breath throughout the day.
- Add Fresh Herbs and Spices to Your Diet: Incorporate fresh herbs like parsley, mint, and cilantro into your meals, as they can naturally combat bad breath.
- Consume Fermented Foods: Probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and kimchi may help restore a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which could improve the B.O. situation.
- Shower Regularly: Maintaining good personal hygiene can help control body odor while on the ketogenic diet.
Mando controls odor all day
As you probably guessed, that last tip is dear to our hearts here at Mando. Whether you’re practicing keto or crushing cookies, showering regularly, and using Mando Acidified Body Wash or the 4-in-1 Acidified Cleansing Bar is clinically proven to control odor for 24 hours. Combine that with our Smooth Solid Stick or Invisible Cream, and you’ll stay fresh and clean for up to 72 hours - guaranteed. Oh, and don’t forget to pack some Deodorant Wipes. They’re great for the gym, the car, the office, or anytime you need a quick refresher.
Fortunately, the body odor associated with ketosis is usually temporary and tends to diminish as the body adapts to the changes brought about by the ketogenic diet. Maintaining good personal hygiene, staying well-hydrated, and following the tips mentioned above can help manage the impact of body odor during ketosis.
