We all have them; the one who you hug while holding your breath, the one for whom you’re constantly buying packs of Orbit. They might be friends, but being around them can get unpleasant. A test of your friendship is in how you handle the situation; do you throw them out and spread ugly tales? Or do you find ways to help? If you go with the second option, then these tips will help you out.
First, you have to read; you read that right, READ. Find out what you can about body odour; it’s causes and the ways in which it can be curbed. You can’t offer advice on something if you don’t know anything about it, right? Right. So, let me give you a short expo. Body odour, just like mouth odour is caused primarily by bacteria. These bacteria are found in sweat which lurks in crevices around the body such as armpits and in between the toes. The unpleasant odour can also be caused by the foods we eat (brocolli, fish, onions, even alcohol). Research has also shown that “stress sweat” which is produced by the apocrine glands produces a more pungent smell than other kinds of sweat. Underlying diseases such as diabetes and a rare condition known as Trimethylaminuria, which is a genetic mutation can also produce foul odours. Trimethylaminuria is a condition which causes the body to give off a fishy smell.
Now that you know a little bit about the subject, the next step is to figure out a way to get rid of the stench. Start by dropping subtle hints. Ask about what kind of soap they use; anti-bacterial soaps are useful for combating the bacteria that causes foul odours. Make your recommendation; suggest a change of soap or deodorant, the kinds that will mask the odour. If you feel that your hints are not being taken, then you need to drop bigger ones. Buy the soap or deodorant for them; pass it off as a trial you want to try out together.
Like I said, body odour can be a sign of an underlying disease, so the person affected may need to get checked. Make proper use of Blackberry broadcast messages (it’s not just for download links and stuff). Send out health awareness alerts about these diseases and ensure you highlight body odour as a symptom. You could save a life.
If all your hints are not taken, I’m sorry dear but you need to share the smelly truth. This doesn’t always turn out right, in fact I’ve never seen it turn out right. But if you have a lot of faith in your friendship, and are really good at delivering bad news then go for it. Tell your friend how much you care, and show them how they can improve their lifestyle by killing the stench. I hope it works out well for you.
Just in case one of you reading this happens to be the smelly friend; I have a few words for you. Drink a lot of water, at least 2 litres daily. This is always my mum’s solid advice; and even though she thinks I don’t take it, I will pass it on to you. Water is the elixir of life and it contributes to physical well-being. Bath 2 times daily. Ensure you rid your body of sweat as much as you can, and use a deodorant in the day-time. Wear clean clothes and clean underwear always; forget the 2-day (or whatever number of days) rule, if it stinks toss it in the wash. I have done my part, the rest is up to you. Cheerio.