Community Chat

[esmerelda]

Wondering...is the sweat from just being hot...humidity, weather temperature...the same as sweat from hard work?  And while we're at it, is it different that sweat from hot flashes or embarrassment?

Hmmm....

What do you think?

[rms1954]

I never really thought about that.  I just figure sweat is sweat.  Didn't think the sweat glands could tell the difference as to what is making them do their job.

[Brisky]

When I sweat here in the desert doing yard work, all I can say is. It's SHOWER time.

[Brisky]

Yes, I think it's equal.

[butterfly123]

Your body has two main types of sweat glands, and they produce two very different types of sweat. Both types are odorless, but the type of sweat produced in your armpits and groin smells bad when it combines with bacteria found normally on your skin.

Mayo Clinic

[Katcat1]

@esmerelda  Sweat is sweat no matter how you get it!

[AngelPuppy1]

I guess it's all the same?  I would think though if you are asking about sweating regarding whether it comes from exercising or just temperature or hot flashes, and the expenditure of calories, then I would think, of course, that deriving it from exercise would be the great expenditure.

[SilleeMee]

No, all sweat is not equal. The body produces two kinds. Apocrine, usually located where there is hair (follicles), contains higher amounts of protein and for that reason it has an odor which can get strong because bacteria on the skin breaks it down which causes bo. The other kind of sweat, eccrine, comes from all over the body and it's main function is to cool.

eta - I happen to know about these things because I have a skin disease which has taken away many of my sweat glands and it can be dangerous for me...not being able to sweat comes with some serious health concerns.

[sidsmom]

If asking using the losing weight angle,

excess weight is breathed out as carbon dioxide,

not heat or sweat.

[cowboy sam]

@SilleeMee 

I am hypothryoid and i can't always sweat when i should.