Fishy body odor could signal a rare genetic disorder: managing trimethylaminuria through diet and hygiene

Trimethylaminuria is characterized by symptoms such as a distinct strong fish-like smell in one's breath, sweat, and urine. This rare genetic metabolic disorder tends to occur more frequently in women than in men, and symptoms may be present shortly after birth or only appear during adolescence. The inheritance of abnormal genes from both parents is necessary for the disease to manifest.

Trimethylaminuria can significantly affect a patient's quality of life, leading to social ostracism, diminished self-esteem, and strained interpersonal relationships.

Trimethylaminuria arises when the body lacks sufficient levels of the FMO3 enzyme (flavin-containing monooxygenase), which is needed to break down and eliminate trimethylamine (TMA) from the body.

Trimethylamine (TMA) is an organic compound naturally present in the organisms of many animals, plants, and bacteria. It has a distinct fishy smell. When the FMO3 enzyme isn't functioning correctly, this compound accumulates in the body, resulting in unpleasant odors.

Currently, we don't have an effective prevention method for trimethylaminuria. Hence, treatment focuses on reducing the consumption of foods high in trimethylamine.

Those dealing with this fish odor syndrome should avoid certain seafood (such as tuna, mackerel, salmon, herring, and shrimp), eggs, fermented foods (like pickles, cabbage, kefir, yogurt, tempeh), certain vegetables (broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, spinach), red meat, and legumes. These foods can increase TMA production and aggravate symptoms.

Maintaining personal hygiene is also crucial (for instance, using cleansing products with an acidic pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.5). Alongside physical health, mental health is equally important - in cases of trimethylaminuria, consulting a psychologist or a psychotherapist can prove invaluable.