“I must taste sweet!”
“Bugs just love me…”
“They find me every time….”
Have you ever wondered why you seem to be the one getting all the pesky mosquito bites? No one knows for sure what makes some people the prime target at backyard bbqs, while others remain unscathed, but scientists have discovered nine factors behind mosquitoes and what attracts them.
1. Breathing!
Mosquitoes are attracted to carbon dioxide, the more the better. That’s why they are the most prevalent at sporting events and cookouts–anywhere where large groups of people are gathered. There isn’t much you can do to prevent this, but it is an interesting fact!
2. Height
Taller people produce more carbon dioxide and they are warmer, so they are often prime targets. Adults get more bites than children, and men more than women.
3. Pregnancy
When you are pregnant, your body produces extra warmth and excess CO2.
4. Perfume
Mosquitoes and other insects are attracted to certain floral scents. Best to save perfume for indoor events!
5. A good workout
When you exercise, your body produces lactic acid, which attracts insects.
6. Stinky feet
The bacteria found on feet is so attractive to insects it is used to attract them by scientists.
7. Genetics
Your genes determine your body odor, and certain types of odors attract insects, including mosquitoes. Sometimes your genetic makeup can make you more pre-disposed to bug bites.
8. Beer
If you drink just 12 ounces of beer, it increases your risk of a mosquito bite quite a bit! Scientists are not sure why, but something about beer attracts mosquitoes.
9. Blood type
Preliminary studies leaned toward the conclusion that type 0 blood is preferred by mosquitoes. The study has sense been found to have ” bad statistics”, but further studies are being conducted to test this interesting correlation.
If you do find yourself in need of some insect protection, check out these homemade bug remedies 🙂
