Body Odor in Small Children

Normally a child who has not hit puberty will not have body odor. Body odor in children can be a result of a rare metabolic disorder called phenolketonuria, where enzymes are not broken down properly. While there are other causes of body odor in children, they need to be detected by a doctor and tested to ensure proper treatment.

Diet and Food

• Items a child eats can influence his body odor. Hormones which have been added to milk have been shown to cause body odor, and drinkers may want to try organic milk instead. Other foods which may cause body odor include meat, eggs, and wheat.

Early Puberty

• Puberty is a time when adolescents start developing more maturely and body odor can become distinct. While children under ten are normally too young to be going through puberty, it cannot be ruled out. A trip to the doctor can omit the possibility with testing and evaluation.

Sweat Glands

• Hyperactive sweat glands may occur in some children. Tests should be done to evaluate for metal toxicities, which can cause the bad body odor of the child. Heavy metal toxicity tests and hair mineral tests can help to determine if this is the case.

Misconceptions

• Body odor may be abundant even after the child has bathed. There have been cases where the child has bathed several times a day and still has had unpleasant body odor. The parent should consult a doctor to determine what the cause can be.

Warning

• Children should not be using adult deodorants. These deodorants are not meant for small children. The level of chemicals and toxins in the deodorants can be harmful to children. Natural remedies include baking soda, baby wipes, and diluted apple cider vinegar.