If you’ve noticed your body odor changing—or if social media terms like “Ozempic smell” and “old people smell” have piqued your curiosity, your diet might be the culprit. According to nutrition experts, certain foods can interact with your body chemistry and skin bacteria in ways that amplify or alter your natural scent.
Seafood is a top offender. While the smell of fish is well known, in rare cases, the body converts seafood-derived choline into a fishy-smelling compound called trimethylamine. This can be excreted through sweat and breath, leading to a persistent odor—a condition known as trimethylaminuria. Though rare, it’s also triggered by foods like beans, broccoli, peanuts, and soy.
Cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and broccoli release sulfur-containing compounds during digestion. These compounds can mix with sweat and intensify odor, especially when released through breath or gas.
Spicy foods, particularly those seasoned with curry or cumin, are another common cause. These spices contain volatile compounds that are absorbed into the bloodstream and later released through sweat, creating distinctive scents.
And yes, red meat can contribute too. While its proteins are odorless when consumed, they can mix with skin bacteria during perspiration and develop a stronger smell over time.
Genetics, hygiene, and lifestyle all play a role, but diet matters. Registered dietitian Erin Palinski-Wade suggests reducing sulfur-rich and spicy foods, drinking more water, and incorporating odor-neutralizing foods like leafy greens, apples, yogurt, and green tea.
And remember: bathing regularly, using antibacterial soap, wearing breathable fabrics, and prioritizing sleep, stress reduction, and exercise can all support a fresher, more balanced body scent.
