4 MAIN REASONS YOUR ARMPITS SMELL LIKE AMMONIA (AND HOW TO FIX IT)

1. Diet

What you eat can totally mess with how you smell. High-protein diets, like keto, can lead to an ammonia-like odor. Why? Because when your body breaks down protein, it produces ammonia as a byproduct. In excess, this can come out in your sweat. So, if you’re loading up on those protein shakes, this could be the culprit.

Tip

Balance your diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables. Think juicy watermelon, crunchy cucumbers, and refreshing oranges—these hydrating champs help flush out excess ammonia. Leafy greens like spinach and kale are odor-fighting superheroes packed with chlorophyll, which naturally neutralizes smells. And don't forget berries! They’re loaded with antioxidants that help your body stay fresh from the inside out.

2. Exercise

Working out is fantastic for your mental and physical health, but it can also make you sweat more. When you exercise, your body releases sweat to cool down. Sometimes, this sweat can mix with bacteria on your skin, producing an ammonia-like smell.

Tip

Regular showers are a must! Lather up with body wash to wash away sweat and bacteria, and don’t forget to apply deodorant to keep things fresh. Spritz on a spray deodorant post-workout to keep that confidence up and the ammonia smell down. Your gym buddies (and your nose) will thank you!

3. Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis is a condition where you sweat excessively. This can lead to stronger body odors, including that pesky ammonia smell. If you think you might have hyperhidrosis, it’s worth consulting a healthcare professional.

Tip

Give Axe stick deodorant a try—it's specifically designed to tackle excessive sweating and keep you dry. For extra backup, apply antiperspirant at night; it gives the formula time to work while you sleep. Also, wear breathable fabrics like cotton or moisture-wicking materials like bamboo to help keep sweat in check. If things are intense, treatments like prescription antiperspirants or Botox injections (yup, it’s not just for wrinkles!) could be a big help for excessive sweating.

4. Stress and Hormonal Changes

Stress and hormonal changes can also affect how you smell. When you’re stressed, your body produces more sweat, which can mix with bacteria and produce an ammonia-like odor. Hormonal changes, especially during puberty, can have a similar effect.

Tip

Chill out with some stress-relief techniques! Try meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises to keep your stress levels in check. And don’t forget to drink plenty of water—staying hydrated helps flush out toxins and keeps you feeling fresh.

Your Questions, Answered.

Q: What does ammonia smell like?

Ammonia smells a lot like window cleaner—sharp, strong, and like a cleaning aisle punch to the nose. At lower levels, it can resemble sweat or urine, thanks to the breakdown of urea in your body. But when it’s more concentrated, you get that harsh, chemical scent we all know from household cleaners or smelling salts. If your armpits are giving off that vibe, it’s that unmistakable, stinging smell.

Q: Why do my armpits smell like ammonia after working out?

A: Your armpits might smell like ammonia after a workout due to a high-protein diet or the breakdown of sweat by bacteria. When your body breaks down protein, it produces ammonia as a byproduct. Using deodorant can help neutralize odors and keep you smelling fresh.

Q: What foods should I avoid to prevent my armpits from smelling like ammonia?

A: To prevent your armpits from smelling like ammonia, limit high-protein foods like red meat and dairy, which can contribute to an ammonia smell. Incorporate more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to help balance your body’s pH and reduce odor.

 

From your diet and stress levels to your workout routine and even hormonal changes, there are lots of reasons why your armpits smell like ammonia. The good news is with a few smart tweaks, like balancing your diet, managing stress, and keeping up with a solid hygiene routine you can keep that odor in check.