Natural Insect Repellent

[theresa]

Most Americans are B-complex deficient. B1 deficient persons are more vulnerable to insect bites – particularly fleas and mosquitoes. There are few rich sources of B1. Foods containing higher amounts of B1 include pork, fortified whole grains, pistachios, acorn squash, legumes, watermelon and green peas. Since B vitamins are water-soluble, I suggest taking a well-balanced B-complex twice daily with meals. Note: sugar, alcohol, teas and coffee destroy thiamin (as well as other nutrients).

[roger355]

Quote:

B1 deficient persons are more vulnerable to insect bites – particularly fleas and mosquitoes.

Theresa,

But why it is so? What relation is there between B1 deficiency and insect bites? Sorry if it looks like a very silly question, but I could not make out the relation if one exists.

[theresa]

I don't know why this is so specifically. I might speculate though that it has something to do with the fact that a B1 deficiency results in a deficiency of pyruvate dehydrogenase which can cause lactic acidosis. Acidosis results in a fruity-smelling breath.

The typical Western diet promotes a disturbance in the acid/alkaline balance resulting in a low-grade metabolic acidosis - low pH. Deficiencies can cause a multitude of issues. Just as a B1 deficiency can contribute to alcoholic tendencies - I don't know why that specifically is. Anyway, hope that helps.