Why does your sweat smell like ammonia?
Test your knowledge in our True or False quiz.
Sweat smells like ammonia because of your diet
You're right!
Eating mostly protein and very few carbs can push your body to use protein for energy. That process creates ammonia, which can make your sweat smell sharp or chemical-like.
Not quite
Diet can be a major cause. High-protein, low-carb eating forces your body to break down protein for fuel, which produces ammonia that can show up in your sweat.
Dehydration has nothing to do with ammonia-smelling sweat.
Incorrect
Dehydration actually worsens ammonia smell. When you’re low on fluids, your sweat becomes more concentrated, making the scent stronger and more noticeable.
Correct!
Dehydration absolutely plays a role. Less water = more concentrated sweat = a stronger ammonia odor.
Ammonia-smelling sweat is always a sign of a serious health issue.
Not necessarily
While persistent ammonia odor can sometimes indicate an underlying issue, most cases are linked to things like diet, exercise intensity, or hydration levels.
Correct
Most of the time, ammonia-smelling sweat is tied to everyday habits, not a medical emergency. But if it’s strong or constant, it’s smart to check in with a healthcare professional.