by Tracy Thomas

Created on: April 10, 2009   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

Western culture has us convinced from an early age that sweating is a sign of poor hygiene and is something that we should avoid. Television commercials push the use of anti-perspirants and powders to keep our underarms and bodies dry in order to avoid those embarrassing stains and body odor. What most of those advertisements fail to mention is that bacteria and not sweat is the cause of body odor in the first place. When you make the conscious decision to allow your body to sweat through exercise or with a stint in the sauna, you are actually doing yourself a favor by ridding your body of toxins including bacteria the natural way.

Physiology of Sweat

Sweating is the body's natural air conditioner. When our core body temperature begins to rise the body responds by dilating the blood vessels which causes an increase in blood flow. As the heat from the blood makes its way towards the surface of the skin, the sweat glands become stimulated and sweat is produced. When the sweat evaporates from the surface of the skin, heat is removed and your body begins to cool down. Along with this natural cooling process come several health benefits.

Health Benefits of Sweating

One of the first obvious health benefits of sweating occurs on the surface of the skin. That wet shimmer is actually cleansing the bacteria right out of the epidermal layer through the sweat ducts which can result in improved capillary circulation. Improved capillary circulation allows the growth of new skin cells which results in a healthy softness and glow to the surface of the epidermis. Our bodies are like sponges that soak up the toxins that we are exposed to on a daily basis. When our bodies absorb these toxins, the PH levels of our blood become too acidic for our own good.

Beneath the skin's surface, sweating purifies the blood by correcting blood PH with the removal of acidity and helps to circulate the lymph system which boosts the body's immunity. The majority of viruses and bacteria cannot live in temperatures above 98.6F. With increased body temperature, increased blood flow and stimulation of the sweat glands, the body begins the process of expelling toxins such as mercury, zinc, lead and copper. Bacteria and viruses are also moved out through the glands as the body begins to sweat.

So, the next time you go out on that long run or choose to relax inside a sauna to ease your tired muscles, be glad when you feel the sweat begin to pour off of your brow. Relax in the knowledge that each droplet of perspiration is purging unhealthy toxins from your system in the bid to ensure your good health.

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