Summer brings plenty of enjoyable experiences, but also one particularly annoying nuisance: Mosquitoes. While some people get bitten almost every time they step outside, others barely notice them. Why does this happen? Is there something that makes us more attractive to mosquitoes? And could it also be related to what we eat?
It’s not just a myth—The influence of human diet on mosquitoes attraction: A literature review, a recent review of studies published in the journal Biologia, examined the role of diet on mosquito attraction and revealed an interesting link between what we eat and the likelihood of being targeted by mosquitoes.
What attracts mosquitoes?
Research has shown that various factors influence mosquito attraction to humans, such as genetics, skin microbiome composition, blood type (for example, mosquitoes particularly favor those with type O), and pregnancy—pregnant women are more attractive to mosquitoes. Additionally, mosquitoes are drawn to compounds secreted through the skin, like different scent compounds, sweat, and more. Different people emit varying amounts of these substances, which is why mosquitoes show preferences.
The review found that changes in body odor composition may result from the consumption of different dietary components. So what should you eat—and what should you avoid?
Not recommended
Drinking beer increases the production of organic compounds like ethanol, and some studies suggest that consuming bananas may also enhance mosquito attraction, although responses vary among individuals.
It is believed these foods increase the production of volatile organic compounds such as ethanol and lactic acid—which are mosquito attractants.
Which foods actually repel mosquitoes?
Garlic, rich in sulfur compounds
Citrus fruits such as lemon, grapefruit, orange, and more—rich in limonene
These foods, due to their sulfur and limonene content (respectively), show potential in repelling mosquitoes by interfering with their olfactory systems.
What else can you do to avoid mosquito bites?
It is recommended to also follow these measures:
Plant lemon-scented plants at home like lemongrass, lemon eucalyptus. You can also use lemon eucalyptus oil.
Wear long, light-colored clothing.
Use mosquito repellents.
Maintain hygiene. For example, stagnant sweat is more attractive to mosquitoes, so if you’ve exercised, it’s best to shower immediately afterward.
Drain and dry sources of standing water.
In conclusion, although more research is needed, there seems to be a possible effect of diet on body odor and the composition of secreted substances, which may influence mosquito attraction. So if you suffer particularly from bites, it might be worth considering your diet in addition to other preventive measures.
Written by Galit Snir, clinical nutritionist for Hazera.