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Most of us would do anything to avoid mosquitos. Not only are their bites incredibly itchy and annoying, but they can also transfer dangerous and deadly diseases. Using a mosquito repellent can sometimes be an effective way to keep mosquitos away, but did you know you can also go a more natural route by eating strategically? That’s right. Certain things you eat can actually repel mosquitos.
- Garlic
Eating garlic might wreak havoc on your breath, but if your friends and family can deal with it, the garlic could help you with mosquito protection. Begin eating a clove or two each day several days before you intend to be outdoors, and then continue eating a clove each day during the duration of your outdoor adventures. You’ll sweat the garlic odor out, and mosquitos will steer clear. - Apple Cider Vinegar
One tablespoon of apple cider vinegar a day keeps the mosquitos away? It’s possible. If you’re going to be going on a camping trip, prepare ahead of time, and begin taking one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar each day three days before the trip. Keep it up throughout your time outdoors. You can also moisten a cotton ball with white vinegar and rub it on your skin to repel mosquitos and gnats.
Repel Mosquitos with These Foods Too (But You Don’t Have to Eat Them)
- Olive Oil
Drinking olive oil won’t keep mosquitos away, but the oil can keep the pests out of your yard. Put some in the water of your birdbath, and mosquitos won’t breed there. And don’t worry – the oil won’t bother the birds. - Vanilla
For a sweet-smelling repellent, dilute 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract in 1 cup of water. Wipe it on any exposed skin to repel mosquitos, gnats, and even ticks. - Onions
You won’t be the prettiest smelling person at the picnic, but if you rub sliced onions on your skin, mosquitos will skip over you when they’re hunting for their lunch. - Orange and Lemon Peels
How about a sweeter alternative to onions? Apparently, mosquitos and gnats aren’t fond of the citrusy smell of orange and lemon peels. If you rub the citrus on your body, you’ll be less tempting to a mosquito.
Keep Mosquitos Away by Avoiding These Foods
While mosquitos have a definite distaste for citrus, onions, and garlic, they are actually drawn to the scent of certain other foods. If you’re going to be outside camping, or if you’ll be outside during dusk when mosquitos are most active, avoid these foods.
- Beer
Scientists don’t know why, but mosquitos are awfully attracted to people who have been drinking beer – even just one can. - Potassium-Rich Foods
Bananas, prunes, lima beans, potatoes, raisins, avocados, spinach – these potassium rich foods make your body give off more lactic acid. Mosquitos are attracted to lactic acid because it indicates a warm-blooded animal is present. We all give off lactic acid, but these foods give off a stronger lactic acid scent. - Sweets
Most insects and animals are attracted to sweet foods because of their scent. Mosquitos are no exception. Steer clear of the cakes, pastries, and candies if you’re going to be outside for a lengthy period of time. - Salt
Salty foods also increase the lactic acid your body gives off. Potato chips, pretzels, nuts, and crackers may be hard to put down, but if you don’t, they could draw the mosquitos right to you.
To help keep the mosquitos away this summer, keep these foods in mind when you’re going to be spending any amount of time outdoors. If you want to spend some time outdoors at your own home though and don’t want to worry about what to eat and not eat, simply call in our professional mosquito control experts.
Say Goodbye to Mosquitos!
Want to enjoy your backyard again? We can help. Come discover just how effective & affordable our mosquito control service is. Call us today at 512-400-2008 (Austin) or 713-554-9430 (Houston) or request a quote online!