Ask Mary

When garlic is digested, a sulfur-containing gas, allyl methyl sulfide (AMS), is formed. AMS does not breakdown in the intestines and so it passes into the bloodstream for release through the skin with preparation and through the breath. Garlic odor is more noticeable at the gym because people are sweating and breathing heavily. You can try masking the smell with a spritz of strong perfume or sweat it more quickly in the sauna. Some people chew breath mints or parsley to remove garlicky breath, but that doesn’t help garlic-scented perspiration. To remove all traces of garlic smell, avoid eating garlic for several days. Read more about garlic smell at About.com.