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Why would one's body odor change suddenly?

Asked by MissAnthrope (21511points) June 18th, 2009

I’m hoping some sciencey types can help me figure this one out..

Okay, so when I’m in the U.S., I work a job that is generally very physical (and hot in the back areas) and I often sweat a lot. Like, a month ago, at the beginning of summer, I would go home with my clothes damp. Gross, I know.. but if you’re still with me, let’s carry on to my question!

I was actually pretty impressed with my deodorant because, despite my perspiring, I did not stink at all, other than smelling of plain sweat and parfum de restaurant. No B.O., yay!

Now, I came to Italy to visit my mom and almost immediately even the smallest amount of perspiration and I find I’m stinky. I realized this trip that it’s pretty much always so, at least in the warmer months, requiring multiple showers a day. I hate being stinky and I’m really confounded as to why it happens. I maintained similar hygiene patterns as back home, the same antiperspirant I was using while working, same clothes, etc.

The only thing I can think is diet (fresh foods, hardly any processed) or the water here being different. Anyone have any theories or perhaps can explain why this is?

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