Forgoing a shower, even for a day, makes some people want to hide from society and double up on the deodorant. For Dave Whitlock, this is simply life as usual.
The chemical engineer and MIT grad decided back in 2003 to stop showering after discovering that animals harness bacteria in mud to stay odor-free. Called Nitrosomonas, these bacteria break down ammonia, producing nitrite (a powerful antibacterial) and nitric oxide (a beneficial gas). Speaking with LiveScience, Whitlock said he theorized that colonies of Nitrosomonas on the skin could potentially reduce body odor and keep other nasty bacteria in check.
From the story on Mother Nature Network
