With warm summer days, the need to protect against mosquito bites also increases. These tiny pests can quickly turn a pleasant outdoor experience into an itchy nightmare. While bug repellents and citronella candles can help repel mosquitoes, certain foods also act as natural repellants. By including these foods in your diet, you can become less attractive to these insects and ward off mosquito bites.
What food protects against mosquito bites ? If you include these foods in your diet, which repel mosquitoes, you can naturally protect yourself from these pesky insects while enjoying delicious and healthy meals at the same time. So, go ahead and enjoy the flavors garlic, citrus, onion, herbs, chili, tomatoes and ginger. With these natural ones repellents you will be able to say goodbye to itchy mosquito bites and enjoy no itchy spots in summer.
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Foods that protect against mosquito bites
Garlic
Garlic is known for its expressiveness aroma and robust taste, so it is more than just a staple in the kitchen. It contains a compound called allicin, which is released when garlic is crushed or chopped. Allicin has been found to repel mosquitoes. The addition of garlic to your dishes not only improves the taste, but also acts as a natural protection against mosquitoes.
Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons and grapefruits are not only refreshing and full of vitamin C, they also emit also a smell that mosquitoes don't like. The citrus scent acts as a natural repellent, making these fruits the perfect addition to your summer diet.
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Onions are not only known for adding flavor to dishes, but also for repelling mosquitoes. Sulfur compounds in onions can help keep mosquitoes at bay. Add onions to your salads, marinades and stir-fries to make your meals more mosquito-proof.
Herbs
Some herbs have natural mosquito repellent properties. Basil, rosemary, lavender and mint are great choices. You can grow these herbs in your garden or in pots on your windowsill. Not only will they add a fresh aroma to your surroundings, but they will also helped repel mosquitoes. In addition, using these herbs in cooking can enhance the taste of your dishes.
Hot peppers
If you can stand the heat, spice up your dishes with chili. Capsaicin, the compound responsible for the heat in chilies, works as natural mosquito repellent. Including chili peppers in your diet will not only add some spiciness, but will also help repel those pesky bugs.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a versatile ingredient found in many dishes. They are also a great addition to your mosquito repellent arsenal. Tomatoes contain a compound called thiamine, which can make you less attractive to mosquitoes.
Enjoy as much mosquito repellent food as possible.Photo: Tamann/Unsplash
Ginger
Ginger is not only known for its many health benefits but also for its mosquito repellent properties. Contains natural compounds that help repel mosquitoes. For a refreshing summer without mosquitoes, add ginger to your teas and various drinks.
What foods to avoid
Researchers are still not sure why certain types of food attract mosquitoes. Therefore, if you do not want to attract mosquitoes, avoid a large amount beer. Also avoid sweet and salty foods, as it produces large amounts of lactic acid, which attracts mosquitoes.
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