Autoimmune diseases affect millions of people worldwide, with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, multiple sclerosis, and celiac disease becoming increasingly common. In these conditions, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, leading to chronic inflammation and a variety of symptoms ranging from fatigue and pain to digestive issues and cognitive difficulties.

Why Mosquitos But Some People More Than Others

Nothing can ruin a summer’s night barbecue like the sudden appearance of mosquitoes. Yet, you may notice that some people get bitten while others remain completely unharmed. Your friends could be sitting right next to you blissfully unaware of these pests while you spend the entire night swatting at your face. There are actually several factors that determine whether you will suffer from mosquito bites or not. Let’s discover the source of your mosquito bite woes below!

8 Reasons Why Mosquitos Bite Some People More Than Others

Research has shown that around 20% of individuals are targeted by mosquitoes while generally ignoring the rest. [1] Some factors that put you at risk include your breathing, clothing, blood type, and bacteria commonly found on human skin. Let’s dive deeper into these and other factors that make you more susceptible to mosquito bites.

Read More: What Are Assassin Bugs, and What Do You Do If You’re Bitten By One?

Your Blood Type

If you have Type O blood, you are likely to be favored by the Asian tiger mosquito. On the other hand, march mosquitoes are particularly attracted to those with Type AB blood group. Approximately 80% of the human population releases a secretion that signals their specific blood type. mosquitoes appear to favor those who release this secretion, regardless of what blood type group they belong to. [2]

The amount of Carbon Dioxide You Breathe Out

Humans breathe in oxygen and breathe out carbon dioxide. Mosquitoes are able to sense carbon dioxide from very far away. The more carbon dioxide you release, the more likely you are to suffer from mosquito bites. Larger individuals are more likely to get bitten, as they release more carbon dioxide than those around them. The reason you find yourself slapping your head continuously at the barbecue is because of the carbon dioxide we release through both our mouths and noses.

Body Heat and Sweat

You may have noticed that you tend to get bitten most when exercising outdoors on a warm day. This is because mosquitoes are attracted to the heat our bodies release. We also tend to sweat a lot when we are warm, and mosquitoes are likewise attracted to the compounds in the sweat, such as ammonia and lactic acid. [3] So, if you plan to be outside on a hot day, it is best to apply mosquito repellant. Your body odor is also determined by your genetics, so you are likely not the only one in your family that suffers from mosquito bites!

Read More: 6 Essential Oils You Need to Repel Bugs All Summer Long

Skin Bacteria

The surface of the human skin is covered in microscopic life, such as bacteria. These bacteria emit a particular smell when they mix with human sweat, which in turn attracts mosquitoes. The number of mosquito bites a person may get is largely dependent on the amount and type of bacteria present on their skin. The feet and ankles are both places where bacteria can grow easily, hence why we are so often bitten there. [4]

Pregnancy

In 2000, a study was undertaken in Africa that found that twice the amount of mosquitoes bit pregnant women compared to those that were not pregnant. This is due to two factors that we have already discussed above – heat and carbon dioxide. Pregnant individuals are typically one degree warmer than their counterparts. Pregnant women also exhaled 21% more carbon dioxide than those who were not pregnant.

Alcohol

A study undertaken in 2002 researched if there was any correlation between alcohol consumption and mosquito bites. What they found was that mosquitoes were significantly more attracted to individuals who consumed a liter of beer as compared to those who drank a liter of water. [5] The researchers are still uncertain why this occurs, though. They could find no connection between alcohol consumption and carbon dioxide exhalation. If you plan on attending a picnic or concert, you may want to apply repellent before drinking!

Diet

What you eat may also be making you a tasty treat for mosquitoes. They are particularly attracted to individuals who have eaten spicy, salty, sweet, or potassium-filled foods. The University of Wisconsin found that mosquitoes were particularly fond of people who had eaten a banana. An apple a day may keep the doctor away, but a banana will attract mosquito bites!

Color

Mosquitoes also seem to be attracted to dark colors, so you may want to avoid dark-colored clothing – especially black. It is thought that they are able to see dark and green colors more easily than grey or white. This is because they tend to gravitate towards darker color surfaces in studies. Therefore, you may want to opt for beige or another light color for your outdoor stroll.

The Bottom Line

If you are the type of person who is constantly attacked by mosquitoes, you may feel that it is simply your fate to suffer from mosquito bites. However, as we have seen above, there are many factors that determine whether you are a worthy candidate for being bitten. Some of these factors can be dealt with, such as by choosing light clothes and staying cooler. However, if you are pregnant or tend to sweat a lot, you may want to try some bug repellant to keep you safe from mosquito bites.

While there’s no cure for autoimmune diseases, diet and lifestyle changes can significantly reduce symptom severity, improve quality of life, and even slow disease progression.

🧠 Understanding Autoimmune Diseases

In autoimmune disorders, the body’s immune response becomes dysregulated. Instead of defending against foreign invaders like bacteria and viruses, the immune system targets the body’s own cells, tissues, or organs.

Common symptoms include:

• Chronic inflammation

• Fatigue

• Joint or muscle pain

• Digestive issues

• Skin rashes

• Brain fog

Triggers vary but often include genetics, infections, toxins, stress, and dietary factors.

🥦 The Role of Diet in Autoimmune Health

Diet can be a powerful tool to reduce inflammation, support gut health, and calm an overactive immune system. Here’s how:

🌿 1. Adopt an Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Autoimmune diseases are rooted in chronic inflammation. Eating anti-inflammatory foods can help manage flares and reduce symptoms.

Foods to focus on:

• Fruits and vegetables (especially leafy greens, berries, cruciferous vegetables)

• Fatty fish (salmon, sardines, mackerel – rich in omega-3s)

• Healthy fats (olive oil, avocados, nuts, seeds)

• Herbs and spices (turmeric, ginger, garlic)

• Whole foods over processed and refined ones

🚫 2. Eliminate Inflammatory Triggers

Certain foods are known to trigger autoimmune flares in many individuals.

Common culprits:

• Gluten – Especially in people with celiac or Hashimoto’s

• Dairy – Can cause immune reactivity in sensitive individuals

• Refined sugar and carbohydrates

• Highly processed foods and additives

• Vegetable oils high in omega-6s (soybean, corn, sunflower)

• Alcohol and caffeine in excess

💡 Try an elimination diet or the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) diet to identify your triggers.

🧬 3. Support Gut Health

A healthy gut barrier is essential because 70–80% of your immune system resides in the gut. Leaky gut (intestinal permeability) is linked to autoimmune activity.

Gut-friendly foods and habits:

• Fermented foods (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi)

• Prebiotics (onions, garlic, bananas, asparagus)

• Bone broth – rich in collagen and gut-healing nutrients

• Probiotics – supplements or food-based

• Avoid NSAIDs and antibiotics unless necessary

💧 4. Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration supports detoxification, cellular health, and nutrient absorption.

• Aim for 8–10 glasses of water per day

• Add lemon, cucumber, or mint for a natural boost

• Avoid sugary drinks and excessive caffeine

🍽️ 5. Balance Blood Sugar

Unstable blood sugar can worsen inflammation and fatigue.

Tips:

• Include protein and healthy fats with every meal

• Avoid sugary snacks and beverages

• Don’t skip meals—eat regular, balanced meals

🧘‍♀️ Lifestyle Strategies for Managing Autoimmune Conditions

Diet is only one part of the picture. Lifestyle plays a critical role in immune regulation.

🛌 1. Prioritize Restorative Sleep

Sleep is crucial for immune repair and hormone regulation.

• Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night

• Keep a regular sleep schedule

• Limit blue light exposure before bed

• Avoid caffeine late in the day

🧠 2. Manage Stress

Chronic stress is a known trigger for autoimmune flares due to its impact on cortisol and inflammation.

Stress-reduction techniques:

• Deep breathing exercises or meditation

• Yoga or tai chi

• Journaling or creative hobbies

• Therapy or support groups

• Spending time in nature

🧬 Mind-body practices like meditation have been shown to reduce inflammatory markers like CRP and IL-6.

🏃‍♂️ 3. Engage in Gentle, Consistent Movement

Exercise supports circulation, mental health, and joint mobility—but overtraining can be harmful.

Best options:

• Walking or hiking

• Swimming

• Pilates or yoga

• Stretching and light resistance training

Start slow and listen to your body—rest when needed.

🚭 4. Avoid Toxins and Smoking

Environmental toxins can overstimulate the immune system.

• Choose natural cleaning and personal care products

• Avoid BPA, phthalates, and synthetic fragrances

• Stop smoking and limit alcohol

• Use an air purifier if needed

🧴 Supplements to Consider (Under Professional Guidance)

Some supplements may support immune balance and reduce inflammation:

• Vitamin D – Supports immune function and reduces autoimmunity

• Omega-3 fatty acids – Anti-inflammatory

• Probiotics – Gut support

• Curcumin (turmeric extract) – Powerful anti-inflammatory

• Magnesium – Helps with fatigue and muscle cramps

• Selenium and zinc – Especially useful for thyroid autoimmunity

⚠️ Always consult a healthcare provider before starting supplements, especially if you are on medication.

🫂 Build a Support System

Living with a chronic illness is emotionally taxing. Having a strong support system can greatly improve your outlook and resilience.

• Join an autoimmune-specific Facebook group or forum

• Find a therapist familiar with chronic illness

• Involve family or friends in your care journey

• Educate loved ones so they can better understand your needs

🏁 Final Thoughts

Autoimmune diseases may not have a cure, but through mindful diet and lifestyle changes, many people can manage symptoms, reduce flare-ups, and improve their quality of life dramatically.

Remember: You don’t have to do everything at once. Start small—swap one food, build one habit, take one step toward healing. Over time, those choices add up to major improvements.

Would you like help creating a personalized anti-inflammatory meal plan or symptom tracker for your autoimmune condition? I’d be happy to help you get started. 🥗🧘‍♀️💪