Sweating is an essential process our bodies use to maintain health and function. Though often thought of as an indicator of output or a tool for weight loss, sweating is primarily a method of regulation. In this blog, we’ll explore why we sweat and the mechanisms behind it.
TEMPERATURE
Sweat primarily functions as a cooling mechanism, which means it’s a reaction to your body overheating. The amount you sweat can be influenced by temperature, humidity, hydration, and even your individual sweat gland activity, which comes down to genetics. You might sweat profusely in a hot yoga session but only moderately lifting weights in a cool, air-conditioned space with an in-home or virtual personal trainer.
The human body functions best within a narrow temperature range; “Even just a few degrees up is a fever. So, we have to keep our body temperature in a very tight window, and sweat is how we do it” (Sarah Everts, author of The Joy of Sweat, CBS News, 2023). When we exercise, are exposed to heat, or experience stress, our body temperature rises. To prevent overheating, the hypothalamus (located in the brain) signals sweat glands to release sweat onto the skin’s surface. As sweat evaporates, it cools the body down.
HYDRATION
“Sweat primarily consists of water but contains small amounts of electrolytes, minerals, pheromones, proteins, and amino acids” (Health, 2023). This loss needs to be replenished to prevent dehydration and ensure that our cells, muscles, and organs function properly. Our in- home personal trainers in Toronto always encourage clients to bring water to their workouts. If profusive sweating occurs or a workout lasts longer than an hour – especially in hot and humid conditions – it’s crucial to replenish sodium to maintain performance and prevent hyponatremia (low blood sodium levels). Sports drinks, supplements, and salt-rich foods can assist with this process while preventing cramps, dizziness, fatigue, and other potentially dangerous symptoms.
DETOXIFICATION & SKIN HEALTH
The primary organs responsible for detoxification are the liver and kidneys, full stop. Don’t buy into the detoxification hype pushing special teas or expensive saunas. That said, sweating can help expel some toxins and waste products from the body. While not a major detoxification pathway, it contributes to overall bodily cleanliness. Sweating also benefits the skin by opening your pores and flushing out dirt and impurities. This can help reduce acne. However, if sweat is