6 Foods That Cause Excessive Sweating
Do you find yourself breaking out in a sweat even when you’re not exercising or in a hot environment? It may surprise you — or not — that your diet could be a culprit. In some cases, the foods that you consume can trigger excessive sweating, also known as hyperhidrosis.
This article will show you six common foods that cause excessive sweating. Let’s get started!
1. Spicy Foods
For many people, a meal isn’t complete without some spicy kick. However, as much as you love that extra heat, spicy foods such as peppers are surprisingly well known for sweat-inducing culprits.
But why? That’s because capsaicin, the compound that gives peppers their spiciness, can trick your body into thinking it’s overheated. This naturally triggers the body’s cooling process — sweating.
2. Hot Drinks
In most cases, you probably enjoy a hot cup of coffee or tea. But guess what? These hot drinks could cause you to sweat more.
According to some experts, hot drinks increase your core body temperature. Your body, in response, tries to cool down by sweating.
So, if you’re trying to reduce sweating, it might be worth considering a switch to iced coffee or cold brews.
3. High-Sugar Foods
Most people have a sweet tooth, but did you know that those sweet treats can cause you to sweat excessively?
High-sugar foods like candy, cake, donuts, pastries, and cookies can cause a spike in your blood sugar levels, causing your body to work harder to bring those levels down. This extra work can lead to increased sweating.
4. Alcoholic Drinks
Let me say that alcohol can be another major player causing excessive sweating.
Alcohol has a direct effect on the central nervous system and heart rate, which can lead to increased body temperature and, in turn, more sweating.
Plus, alcohol can also dilate blood vessels, causing your skin to feel warm and triggering a sweat response. So, moderation is key when consuming alcoholic beverages.
5. Caffeine
Now, this may be a tough one for the coffee lovers out there. But it’s true. Caffeine is another one of the foods that cause excessive sweating.
The stimulating effects of caffeine can activate your sweat glands and lead to both increased sweat production and increased heart rate.
While you don’t need to completely eliminate your morning coffee, cutting down could help.
6. Processed Fatty Foods
The truth is, processed foods like deli meats, bacon, hot dogs, sausages, and frozen pizza are high in fat and can also contribute to excessive sweating.
These foods take longer for your body to digest and thus increase your body’s workload, which can lead to more sweat. Instead, try incorporating more whole, natural foods into your diet.
The Bottom Line
Your diet can significantly influence your sweat levels. Common foods that can make you sweat more include spicy foods, hot drinks, high-sugar foods, alcohol, caffeine, and processed fatty foods.
But remember, everyone is different. What causes excessive sweating in one person may not have the same effect on another. However, being aware of these potential triggers is an important first step.