This has happened to plenty of guys: they’re getting sexy undressed in front of a new bed partner, and when they get to the big reveal and strip off their underwear, the room is filled with an obscenely strong penis smell. Stale penile odor is a common penile health problem and can ruin a promising evening. The causes of penile odor are numerous; One of the lesser-known culprits involves the body making too much of a substance called methionine.
hypermethioninemia
Methionine is an essential amino acid found in all humans and, like other amino acids, helps make proteins. It plays a critical role in the body’s metabolism and is also important in helping to build new blood vessels. Methionine also has antioxidant capabilities, allowing it to protect damaged tissues; for example, it has been shown to help protect the liver in cases of paracetamol poisoning.
Clearly, having methionine is beneficial. It is when there is too much methionine, officially called hypermethioninemia, that problems arise, including problems with penile odor. (In fact, odor is one of the less serious possible consequences of hypermethioninemia; other possible problems include mental disorientation, neurological problems, learning and developmental problems, and liver problems.)
Methionine contains sulfur, and if not properly metabolized, the sulfuric properties can be released throughout the body, including the penis. Sulfur has a distinctive and very unpleasant odor, although in this form it takes on an aroma similar to that of boiled cabbage. It is not a conducive smell for a night of passionate sex.
Causes
Hypermethioninemia can occur when a person simply ingests too much methionine. Some foods are especially rich in this amino acid, including roast beef, cheese, turkey, Brazil nuts, tuna, soy, eggs, and yogurt. If a person overloads on these, or habitually consumes too many, it can result in rancid penile odor or unfortunate body odor in general. The breath may also be affected, developing a cabbage-like odor.
In some cases, a genetic defect can explain this condition, and it is more often this cause that explains the more serious effects of hypermethioninemia mentioned above. Fortunately, this form is very rare. Also, sometimes the condition co-occurs with other metabolic disorders.
For those whose methionine levels are too high strictly due to dietary intake, treatment is quite simple: reduce your intake of foods that are especially high in methionine. Prefer foods low in methionine instead, such as many fruits (especially apples, grapes, peaches, grapefruit) and vegetables (especially carrots, lettuce, celery, cucumber). However, before embarking on major dietary changes, a man should consult with his doctor and/or a nutritionist to determine the best way to proceed.
In addition to watching his diet, a man with too much methionine should pay special attention to the hygiene of his penis. Regular washing with a gentle yet effective cleanser can help remove penile odors that add to those caused by too much methionine.
Also, looking beyond methionine levels in the fight against penile odor, a man should definitely include the daily application of a top-tier penile health cream. (Health professionals recommend Man 1 Man Oil, which is clinically proven to be gentle and safe on the skin.) as part of your penis care regimen. It is absolutely essential that your chosen cream contains vitamin A. Also known as retinol, vitamin A contains antibacterial properties that can be of great help in combating common penis odor. The cream should also include key moisturizing agents, such as shea butter and vitamin E. A well-moisturized penis has fewer cracks in the skin, and odor-causing bacteria often hide in those cracks, making it more difficult to get rid of them.
