Is the myth that mosquitoes like "sweet blood" true?
Some people are more likely to be bitten by mosquitoes, while others are spared.
When two people sleep together in a tent, it becomes particularly clear: one is almost bitten by mosquitoes *, while the other sleeps peacefully and does not notice the pests.
Because mosquitoes are actually more into some people than others.
It depends on a few
different factors
.
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This is why some people are more likely to be bitten by mosquitoes
In the past people liked to say: "You must have sweet blood" when someone fell victim to mosquitos.
But this assumption has not yet been scientifically proven.
Nevertheless, some people seem to have a special attraction for the bloodsuckers.
The decisive factor for this is, among other things, the
body odor
.
This does not mean that mosquitoes fly on people who smell particularly good or badly smelling.
It depends on the composition of the body's own odor.
Exactly which smells are attractive to mosquitoes has not yet been researched.
Scientists have also found that lactic acid (in sweat) and carbon dioxide (in breath) attract mosquitoes.
The insects perceive both of these via sensors on their hind legs and antennae.
Even pregnant women and women who are in certain phases of their menstrual cycle seem to be attracted by mosquitoes.
But our
genes
and our
body temperature also
determine whether the mosquitoes settle on our skin.
In the video: This helps against mosquito bites
You can do that against mosquitoes
Since mosquitoes are attracted to human sweat, it is advisable to take a shower, for example, after exercising.
Light-colored clothing
that is not too close to the body is also advisable - otherwise the mosquito can easily bite through the clothing.
Mosquito sprays can also help.
These cover up the human body odor and keep the beasts away.
(cw) * Merkur.de is an offer from IPPEN.MEDIA.
Also read
: Goodbye itching: These ten home remedies quickly help against mosquito bites.
Bloodthirsty pests: Little mosquito customer
Bloodthirsty pests: Little mosquito customer