Sweat often includes an unwelcome odor and because of this, many people try and stop the process from happening or cover it up with a deodorant. But did you know that sweating is a normal bodily process and is incredibly important?
Two Types Of Sweat Glands
The major sweat glands of the human body known as Eccrine Glands can be found all over our skin – with the highest density on the soles, palms, and head. It regulates the body temperature effectively. As the temperature of your body rises, the nervous system works by stimulating the eccrine glands to release sweat – which is made up of sodium, water, and other substances that help cool down the body.
On the other hand, Apocrine Glands are mainly found in groin areas and underarms. These glands can also be triggered by anxiety, fluctuating hormones, or stress. Moreover, apocrine glands are the one that produces bacteria to help break down sweat and that causes odor.
Benefits Of Sweating
Gets Rid Of Body Toxins
Through sweating, your body can flush-out those system-clogging substances like cholesterol, salt, and alcohol. Try circuit training or indoor cycling as these two are the sweatiest workouts.
Helps Ease Pain
Working up a sweat helps soothe aches and pain. But don’t overdo it as it may cause more harm than good.
James Ting, MD, a sports medicine physician at Hoag Orthopedic Institute in Irvine, California said:
“Exercise stimulates neurochemical pathways in the brain, resulting in the production of endorphins that act as natural painkillers.”
Prevents Zits
Once you sweat, your pores open and release the dead skin cells and dirt that has accumulated inside them. If you really want to get a good clean, it would be wise to wash your face right after a workout.
Lowers Your Risk Of Kidney Stones
A research at the University of Washington discovered that regular exercisers sweat out the salt and retain calcium in their bones, contrasting to having them collected in the kidneys and urine, where stones form. Individuals who frequently sweat also tend to drink more fluids – which is another stone prevention mechanism.
Prevents Colds And Other Infections
A research from Eberhard Karls University in Tubingen, Germany revealed that perspirations contain dermcidin, a naturally occurring antimicrobial peptide, which has been proven to fight dangerous pathogens and tuberculosis germs.
Helps Control Our Mood
Do you sometimes hate working out but feels less hateful when you are done? Research suggests that our body have temperature-sensitive neural circuits which are connected to definite regions in the brains that may play a significant role in controlling our mood. That’s why if you are feeling lousy, hop on your bike, take a swim, go for a run, or sweat it out in a hot yoga session.
