It’s a topic that rarely gets discussed, yet it affects many women: an intimate odor that feels a little too strong—sometimes even described as “fishy”—can become a source of discomfort and self-consciousness.

But what if the real culprit was your diet? Before you panic or turn to heavily scented products, take a step back: this issue can often be improved in a gentle, natural way—simply by paying attention to what’s on your plate.

Foods that can make intimate odors stronger

Some dishes, no matter how delicious, can leave traces… even in your most private areas. Here are the main offenders:

Oily fish and seafood
Salmon, tuna, and mackerel are great sources of omega-3s. But eaten in excess, they can also increase certain compounds in your body, like trimethylamine, which may cause a fishy smell. It’s not harmful, but it can definitely be unpleasant.

Sulfur-rich foods
Garlic, onions, broccoli, cauliflower—all excellent for your health, but high in sulfur. Once your body processes it, the odor can be strong. It can show up through sweat, breath, and yes… vaginal discharge, too.

Sugar and ultra-processed foods
No surprise here: too much processed sugar disrupts your intimate flora. It encourages bad bacteria and yeast to grow, leading to imbalances that often come with infections and unpleasant odors.

Alcohol, coffee, and tobacco
These three are notorious for causing dehydration. When your body lacks water, toxins build up, mucous membranes dry out—and odors become more concentrated. Cigarette smoke, in particular, can even alter the natural scent of your body fluids. Not exactly the kind of freshness anyone wants.

Why water and balance matter

Think of drinking water as running your body through a filter. The better hydrated you are, the clearer, lighter, and less odorous your secretions will be. A balanced diet—rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats—also supports the vaginal microbiome. This natural shield plays a crucial role in protecting against unwanted odors.

Foods that naturally help you smell fresh

Fortunately, some foods work in your favor and can restore a sense of natural freshness:

Probiotics (plain yogurt, kefir, raw sauerkraut): These beneficial microorganisms strengthen vaginal flora and help keep odors under control.

Vitamin-rich fruits (pineapple, strawberries, oranges): Their natural sugars and antioxidants may make secretions lighter and sweeter.

Green vegetables and fiber: They help cleanse your body from the inside out and keep your internal environment healthy.

Water, always: Hydration equals purification. Absolutely essential.

When should you see a doctor?

A temporary or slightly unusual odor is nothing to worry about. But if it becomes persistent, very strong, or comes with burning, itching, or thick discharge, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional. Sometimes what seems like a simple diet-related imbalance is actually a minor infection that’s easy to treat.

At the end of the day, a body that smells fresh often begins… with a well-balanced plate.