Can Your Diet Make You More Attractive to Mosquitos?

I am a mosquito coil. I am one of those people who, when I go out on a summer night, can’t help but hear a nasty growl near my head and chew on my arms, legs, or any unexposed flesh. Why do some people get mosquito bites while others do? New research suggests your diet may play a role.

For most of us, a mosquito bite is a minor annoyance, with swollen and itchy skin at the bite site. It may transmit diseases such as In fact, according to the World Health Organization, half the world’s population is at risk of contracting malaria, with approximately 627,000 cases in 2020. With climate change, the threat of mosquitoes transmitting disease is increasing.

It is now well established that, in addition to the color of clothing worn and body temperature, personal odors from breath and skin are responsible for mosquito bites. function, gestation, genetic makeup, underlying infections, skin microbiome, and more. Because what you eat and drink can affect your breathing and skin microbiome, Changing what you eat and drink can affect your attraction to pesky insects, according to new research.

The human body produces over 350 volatile organic compounds. Some of these VOCs are more attractive to mosquitoes than others. VOCs studied that attract mosquitoes include carbon dioxide, lactic acid (produced during exercise), acetone (released during ketosis), ammonia, and other organic compounds produced by humans.

let’s see here Studies on dietary factors that may increase attractiveness to mosquitoesThen be sure to check out the worst dining mistakes you’re making at your Labor Day BBQ.

alcohol

Some studies have shown that drinking alcohol can increase the VOCs in your body that attract mosquitoes.Research published in Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association Among 13 study participants, researchers measured biomarkers before and after drinking beer and found that the proportion of mosquitoes landing on individuals increased after drinking beer.

Another study published in pro swan reported that beer consumption increased mosquito attraction to participating subjects. Researchers theorize that beer (and probably all alcohol) raises body temperature and enhances attractiveness by altering VOCs in the body after drinking.

coffee and caffeine

One recent study cited in a review article from Current research in parasitology and vector-borne diseases Caffeine is a substance found on the skin that has been reported to increase mosquito attraction. According to the authors, other highly scented beverages are likely to increase attractiveness as well.6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

Caffeine increases your metabolism, thereby raising your body temperature. It is well established that mosquitoes are attracted to warm bodies. More research is needed, but avoid coffee, other strongly scented beverages, and Reducing caffeinated beverages can reduce your attractiveness to mosquitoes.

Related: 7 Warning Signs You Should Quit The Keto Diet Immediately

A low-carb diet may help, but only if necessary

As more research develops, there are basic health habits that can help reduce your attraction to mosquitoes. Keep your skin clean and shower after your workout to avoid sweating. Eating a balanced diet and keeping alcohol and caffeine in check can help moderate your body temperature and the volatile organic compounds produced by your breath and skin.

Because ketogenesis burns ketones to produce acetone for energy, mosquitoes may find you more attractive if you follow a low-carb diet. , be sure to consult a doctor.

Julie Upton, MS, RD, CSSD