By Michele Reger
You know the feeling–beads of moisture on your face, water dripping down your back, clothes sticking to your body . . . it’s sweat! Summer helps us experience the many benefits of a good sweat! (Yes, the words “good” and “sweat” are in the same sentence.) Often seen as an unpleasant or inconvenient issue in heat or during physical activity, sweating plays an essential role in overall wellness as a vital bodily function.
One of the main reasons we sweat is to regulate body temperature–a process called thermoregulation. When our bodies heat up during hot weather, exercise, or stress, sweat glands in our skin release moisture, which evaporates and cools our bodies. Without this cooling system, we risk overheating or more serious conditions like heat exhaustion or heatstroke, which can lead to organ damage.
When we sweat during exercise or in heat (including a sauna), the hypothalamus in our brains sends out a signal to dilate blood vessels, boosting circulation and improving cardiovascular function. This temporary boost in circulation sends oxygen and nutrients through the body and lowers blood pressure.
Sweating, especially during physical activity, triggers the release of endorphins—chemicals in the brain that promote happiness and relaxation. According to the Cleveland Clinic, these “feel-good” hormones reduce stress, boost immune function, and act as natural painkillers. People who engage in regular sauna use report a reduction in body aches as well as improved immune function. Exercise-induced sweating also creates a sense of accomplishment, contributing to emotional well-being.
Sweat is beneficial for skin health. It moisturizes the skin, flushes out impurities, and increases blood flow to the skin’s surface. This cleansing process promotes clear skin by washing dirt, oil, and bacteria out of our pores, preventing breakouts and irritation. Heavy barriers like lotions and makeup can hinder this process, so it’s helpful to give our skin a break from these products when exercising or working outside in the heat.
Sweat contains a natural antibiotic called dermcidin, a peptide produced by sweat glands, which has the ability to kill or inhibit the growth of some bacteria that cause skin infections. Richard Gallo, dermatologist at the University of California, says, “Sweat is almost like antibiotic juice–it leaves a coating on your skin to fight the bad bacteria.” In addition, increased body temperature that usually occurs when sweating makes our skin less appealing to pathogenic bacteria.
What about stinky sweat? You’re not alone if you’ve lifted your arm and said, “Is that me?” Actually, it’s not you. It’s likely a helpful bacteria called Staphylococcus hominis that lives on our skin and eats protein molecules that are part of our sweat. Sweat is mostly water with electrolytes and a trace amount of other substances, and although it tastes salty, it doesn’t have a smell. That “pit whiff” is waste products from good bacteria who contribute to the antibiotic juice Gallo mentions.
So, let’s try to appreciate a good sweat–it’s a sign that our bodies are functioning properly! We can provide support by drinking plenty of water in the heat, adding electrolytes or a pinch of sea salt to maintain balance. Rather than being embarrassed, think of sweating as built in self-care–your body’s natural way of staying healthy!
