Foods that help you sweat less (and which ones to avoid right away!)

Sweating is a natural process that helps regulate body temperature. When it is hot or we are in motion, sweat glands are activated to help cool down. Some people, however, sweat more than normal, a condition known as hyperhidrosis, or they notice increased sweating in summer, under stress or after certain meals.

Nutrition directly affects this mechanism, because what we eat can affect metabolism, the nervous system, and even hormonal balance. Therefore, choosing the right foods is a simple but effective first step to reduce sweating and feel cooler every day.

Some foods are known for their calming, refreshing or balancing properties. Here is a selection to incorporate into your daily diet:

1. Water-rich fruits and vegetables.

Cucumbers, watermelon, lettuce, cantaloupe and celery are among the most water-rich foods. They help maintain hydration and naturally cool the body, reducing the urge to sweat.

Top foods:

• Watermelon (92% water)
• Cucumbers (96% water)
• Iceberg lettuce
• Strawberries
• Zucchini

2. Relaxing herbal teas (hot or cold)

Herbs such as sage, chamomile, and lemon balm have a calming effect on the nervous system and regulate sweat production, particularly in stressful situations.

• Sage, in particular, contains tannins that astrict the sweat glands.
• Also good to sip cold after infusion.

3. Calcium-rich foods.

Calcium helps regulate body temperature and balance muscle and nerve function. A deficiency can worsen hyperhidrosis.

Good sources of calcium:

• Milk and yogurt
• Kale
• Almonds
• Tofu

4. Avocados and bananas

These fruits are a valuable source of potassium and magnesium, two minerals that are essential for maintaining electrolyte balance and promoting proper functioning of the nervous system. They also help regulate the body's response to high temperatures, helping it cope better in hot weather.

5. Foods rich in B vitamins.

B vitamins, particularly B1 (thiamine) and B5 (pantothenic acid), improve energy management and reduce sweating from stress or hormonal imbalances.

Where to find them:

• Legumes
• Whole grains
• Eggs
• Walnuts

Just as there are foods that help reduce sweating, there are others that can make it worse. Some foods speed up metabolism and raise body temperature, while others overstimulate the nervous system, causing intensified activation of sweat glands.

Here are the main "enemies" to avoid:

1. Spicy foods

Hot peppers, curries and intensely flavored spices contain capsaicin, a substance that raises body temperature and stimulates sweat glands, increasing sweating.

2. Caffeine

Coffee, black tea and energy drinks activate the central nervous system, causing an increase in heart rate and sweating.

3. Alcohol

Alcohol causes blood vessels to dilate and raises internal temperature, contributing to profuse sweating, often accentuated during the night.

5. Foods high in refined sugars.

Industrial sweets, sugary soft drinks and packaged snacks alter blood sugar levels, triggering metabolic reactions that increase body heat.

6. Foods high in saturated fat

High-fat fried foods, sausages and cheeses slow digestion, forcing the body to do extra work and producing more heat.