By Deena Hamza

OK. So I tend to write about things that irk me and one small item on my super long list is odor:

• Body odor
• Musky perfume/cologne
• The rubber smell at gyms
• Fennel seeds or tea
• Artificial grape scent
• Cooked cabbage (I do however, love cabbage rolls)

I’ll spare you by not wasting more time listing off all of the smells that irk me, but do recognize My Gents of Preciousness, that I do in fact work very closely with human bodies.

Wait. No. Let me reiterate that point:

I work closely with human bodies while moving…and sweating

I had a male client earlier today where I was doing a routine body fat to weight measurement to show (slap in his face) that my way is the right way and ALAS! he was asked to remove his sneakers and socks before stepping on my bio electrical impedance scale.

Yeah. I know you’re feeling what this article is about: The odor that emanated from his meat covered phalanges snuck up and slapped me (ME?!!!!) across the face.

What is foot odor and how is it caused?

• Foot odor is caused by sweat (again, sweat itself is odorless, bacterial growth causes the stench)
• Hairy toes are more susceptible to foot odor (read grooming tips in previous article)
• Polyester or nylon socks cause an increase sweat production as these fibers are not breathable
• Wearing shoes without socks may increase foot – perspiration contact without absorption

How to treat foot odor:

• Opt for cotton socks as this fiber is breathable and has natural wicking properties
• 4 pinches of baking soda on each foot and insoles will inhibit bacterial growth
• Avoid synthetic socks and shoes
• Place allspice in your boots
• Soak feet in tub of iced tea
• Activated carbon products like Odor-Eaters Insoles
• Hygiene! Ensure you’re bathing and scrubbing all over at least twice a day