Episode 189: Snacking your way to a bite-free summer? Outsmart those bloodsuckers with Dr. Oakley

If you’re a natural mosquito magnet, it makes sense to do what you can to lower the risk of being bitten. The foods you eat may play a role in how attractive you are to mosquitoes. So, what attracts Mosquitoes? Beer, bananas and ketchup as well as the smell of lotions, perfumes, and sweat draws mosquitoes in but supposedly there are certain foods that these pests don’t like. Mosquito-repelling foods: • Garlic, onions, and apple cider vinegar, when consumed, are said to change the way you smell and make you less detectable to mosquitoes. • Tomatoes, beans, and lentils as well as other foods rich in thiamine are said to release a smell that repels mosquitoes and other bugs. • Grapefruit, oranges, and lemons are all citrus fruits that mosquitoes apparently aren’t fond of smelling. Other ways to prevent mosquito bites include: • Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants • Covering strollers and baby carriers with mosquito netting • Planning outdoor events when mosquito activity is low (they’re most active from dusk to dawn) • Make sure your window screens are not ripped or torn • Keep entry doors and garage doors closed when not in use It goes without saying but we’ll say it, anyway, speak with your doctor about which insect repellent they recommend for you and your family members before making a purchase. Tune in for some fun and fabulous insights. Thank you, ladies, for listening. Always feel free to ask Dr. Oakley any women’s health questions at any time. Please send in your comments, questions, and suggestions for future topics at [e-mail].