When was the last time you sniffed your armpits? Research now shows us that the volume and diversity of microbes under our arms is an indication of overall health. It was reported in DailyMail.co.uk that our armpits play host to a score of microbes that protect our bodies from harmful pathogens. When we use deodorants, especially antiperspirants, we can create an imbalance of those microbes.
A study was conducted by the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences to test the impact of deodorant usage. The test took place over 8 days with 17 volunteers and were divided into the type of body odor-controlling product they used, if any. On day 1, all volunteers followed their normal deodorant routine. On day 2, they stopped their typical hygiene practices.
For each of the 8 days, the researchers swabbed all participant’s armpits, examining the sample for microbiota. At the beginning, tests showed that volunteers using antiperspirants had fewer microbes than those who used only deodorant. By day 3, microbial growth increased on those who had used antiperspirants. As of the 6th day and through the end of the experiment, all study volunteers had similar armpit microbiomes. When antiperspirant and deodorant usage was resumed on days 7 and 8, it was discovered that once again microbes greatly diminished in all participants, according to Dr. Julie Horvath.
In addition to the change in the microbiota, any product users had higher amounts of Staphylococcaceae, a family of bacteria responsible for staph infections. The participants who stayed totally natural had armpits with greater numbers of Corynebacterium, which are friendly bacteria that produce the bad smells associated with body odor. This study further demonstrates how important it is to allow sweat to happen as nature intended. Supporting deep sweat with an infrared sauna treatment promotes the release of even more toxins that helps our overall health.
Are you ready for your mind and body to work in greater harmony? Identifying self-limiting patterns and replacing them with healthful habits will lead to major breakthroughs. These types of changes can be difficult but the rewards are freeing to body and soul. Life becomes a miracle when getting support results in permanent changes. Personally, I have found that my soul journey is closely connected to my conscious choice when taking time to nurture this relationship.
