Different people have different sweat smell ?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the question of whether different individuals have distinct sweat odors and the reasons behind any variations. It touches on biological and microbiological factors influencing sweat smell.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that individual differences in sweat smell are due to variations in personal biochemistry.
  • It is suggested that the odor associated with sweat is not from the sweat itself but from microorganisms that inhabit it, particularly bacteria.
  • One participant notes that regular perspiration is primarily composed of water and electrolytes, while sweat from certain glands contains substances that bacteria metabolize, potentially leading to odor.
  • A participant expresses a desire for more detailed information to avoid misunderstandings regarding the topic.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that sweat odor is influenced by biological factors, but the discussion remains unresolved regarding the specifics of these influences and the role of bacteria.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion, such as missing specifics about the biochemistry involved and the exact mechanisms by which bacteria contribute to sweat odor.

Marie Cury
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Is it true that different people have different sweat smell ? If so why ?


Thank you
 
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Everyone's personal biochemistry is different. The odour doesn't come from the sweat itself, but from the microorganisms that live in it. What you smell is essentially bacteria ****. Regular perspiration doesn't have that problem, since it's fairly pure water with electrolytes, salts, etc.. Sweat glands in the armpits, groin, and nipples, however, also release an oily substance that bacteria love to nibble on. I'm afraid that I can't remember any specifics right now, but Moonbear and a few other high-mojo biologists will be able to give you more info.

edit: **** meant feces. I just call it like I see it and rely upon the censor software to rein me in. :biggrin:
 


I love more details for not being misunderstanding this problem, I hope they will clearify soon because I am going to have a long winter sleep from now.
 


I'm sure that they'll be with you before long. Sorry that I can't be of any more help myself.
 

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