WHAT a person eats will reflect on his health condition especially on skin – perspiration, allergies or rashes.

Perspiration   is not the sole culprit of body odor. Germs and bacteria are also to blame. However, one can prevent the merging of environment toxins from body toxins by eating the right food and taking the right vitamins.

Taking the right vitamins can help prevent the progress of germs. Bacteria that grows on the skin multiplies rapidly when in the presence of sweat and as the body releases toxins and blend with it, the result is unpleasant odors.

Aside from vitamins, it is also important to eat a well balanced diet, drinking plenty of water and good personal hygiene.

* Vitamin A. This helps maintain and repair the tissue of the skin and also rid the body of toxins. Foods high in vitamin A include milk, dark green and deep orange vegetables, liver, and egg yolk.

* Vitamin B. This helps remove waste products by maintaining appropriate metabolism. Foods high in B vitamins include tuna, salmon, bananas, avocados, molasses, brewers yeast, wheat bran, oats, barley, nuts, and eggs. Avoid alcohol, drugs, and refined sugars as they easily destroy the potency of vitamin B.

* Vitamin E. This helps damaged skin by promoting cell regeneration. Damaged skin harbors bacteria, especially when perspiring. Foods high in vitamin E include whole grains, green plants, nuts and seeds, and egg yolk.

* Zinc and magnesium. These minerals help balance the body’s metabolism and may help reduce perspiration. Foods high in zinc include lean beef, oysters, king crab, and wheat germ. Foods high in magnesium include spinach, broccoli, halibut, and pumpkin seeds.

* Wheatgrass. Chlorophyll,  nature’s deodorizer,   helps purify the body and reduce unpleasant odors. Leafy greens and spinach are high in chlorophyll. Wheatgrass should be taken on empty stomach with a full glass of water.

* Baking soda. Baking soda kills bacteria and absorbs moisture. Just sprinkle ample amount in your bath and soak in it or you can mix it with a little talcum powder and apply it to your underarms. Many people find it effective as deodorant.

* Tea tree oil. Add two drops of tea tree oil to one ounce of water and apply to your skin where needed. Tea tree is an antibacterial herb.

* Apple cider vinegar. Not as acidic as the ordinary vinegar you know. Apple cider vinegar reduces the pH of the skin. Skin areas with low pH prevent bacteria to thrive. Use apple cider vinegar instead of deodorant.

* Rosemary is also an antibacterial herb. Add 8-10 drops of rosemary oil in one ounce of water and apply where needed.