Sweating is our body’s mechanism to regulate internal temperature. For instance, when our body gets heated during exercise, the sweat glands release water along with salt, sugar, and other chemicals that evaporate and cool the skin. While this is perfectly normal, some people experience heavy sweating even without performing physical activity. The condition is called hyperhidrosis. This article lists a few ways in which you can reduce and control excessive sweating.

1. Eat the right foods
One of the easiest ways to control heavy sweating is to follow a proper nutrition plan. While some foods can aggravate the condition, others can cool the body and prevent perspiration. Here are a few tips:

• Drink sufficient water to keep the body cool.
• Stay away from spicy foods as they make your body feel warmer.
• Limit caffeine intake as it stimulates the adrenal glands, creating a fight-or-flight response.
• Avoid onions and garlic as they increase sweating and make the sweat smell.
• High-fat foods create excess heat in the body, triggering heavy sweating.
• Eat smaller meals to lower the metabolic heat your body produces.

2. Shower and wash
Another way to deal with heavy sweating is to take a shower. It not only helps keep the body cool but also eliminates harmful bacteria that thrive on the dampness caused by sweat. But remember to wipe thoroughly after every shower, especially the armpits, groin, and behind the knees (where you tend to sweat more), and wait a few minutes before you get dressed. Also, use an antibacterial soap if possible. Furthermore, shave your underarms regularly since hair retains moisture.

3. Wear the right clothes
You can reduce sweating by picking clothes carefully. Fill your wardrobe with light, breathable fabrics that make you feel comfortable. Tight outfits make you sweat more and retain moisture as well. Also, choose undergarments carefully because synthetic materials make you sweat more. Interestingly, the color of your clothes can also influence how much you sweat. Dark colors absorb more heat, while light colors reflect the sun’s rays and keep you cool.

4. Use antiperspirants
Antiperspirants are substances that block the sweat glands to stop heavy sweating. They usually contain aluminum chloride and are not to be confused with deodorants that simply mask the odor produced by sweat and bacteria. You can apply them under your arms at night before bed or use it after a shower before you dress. It can take a few days to work. If over-the-counter antiperspirants do not help, you can get potent, high-grade antiperspirants with a doctor’s prescription.

5. Put down the cigarette
Besides eating the right foods, wearing comfortable clothes, and using antiperspirants, lifestyle changes like reducing or quitting smoking can also help with heavy sweating. Nicotine, like caffeine, raises body temperature and makes your heart race, encouraging the sweat glands to work overtime. It also causes bad breath, stains your teeth and fingers, and increases the risk of various illnesses. Thus, quitting smoking not only helps control heavy sweating but also improves overall health.