Sweat, also known as perspiration, is primarily composed of water. It's approximately 99% water, with the remaining 1% consisting of a mixture of other substances.
The Composition of Sweat
This small percentage (1%) includes:
- Electrolytes: Such as sodium, potassium, and calcium. These are crucial for maintaining fluid balance and nerve function. A runner losing 3 liters of fluid in an hour can lose a significant amount of salt (1,380-5,520mg). (Source: SportsRD)
- Salt: Primarily sodium chloride. (Source: Cleveland Clinic, Source: various sources)
- Fat: A small amount is present. (Source: various sources)
- Other chemicals: These originate from both interstitial fluid and the sweat gland itself. (Source: NCBI) While sweat contains some trace amounts of other substances, it's not a significant route for toxin removal. (Source: Cleveland Clinic)
The Purpose of Sweating
Sweating is the body's primary mechanism for cooling down when it overheats. The evaporation of sweat from the skin's surface helps regulate body temperature. (Source: various sources) If sweat can't evaporate quickly enough, heat stroke can occur. (Source: Better Health Channel)
Types of Sweat Glands
Two main types of sweat glands contribute to perspiration:
- Eccrine glands: These are responsible for most sweating, producing sweat that is mainly water and NaCl. (Source: StatPearls)
- Apocrine glands: These glands are found in areas like armpits and groin and produce a thicker, odoriferous sweat.
