What can be drunk to prevent bedbugs from biting? - briefly
No beverage has been demonstrated to prevent bedbug bites; these insects respond to body heat and carbon‑dioxide, not to substances consumed. Staying hydrated does not affect their feeding behavior.
What can be drunk to prevent bedbugs from biting? - in detail
Consuming certain liquids can influence the likelihood of bedbug bites, though evidence varies and no drink offers guaranteed protection.
A well‑hydrated body maintains normal skin temperature and moisture, reducing the chemical cues that attract bedbugs. Plain water, consumed regularly throughout the day, supports this effect without side effects.
Caffeinated beverages such as coffee or black tea increase heart rate and peripheral circulation. The resulting rise in skin temperature may make a person more noticeable to the insects, potentially increasing bite risk rather than decreasing it.
Alcohol, especially in moderate amounts, causes vasodilation and elevates skin temperature. Studies on other blood‑feeding insects show heightened attraction under these conditions; the same is likely for bedbugs. Therefore, alcohol is not advisable as a deterrent.
Herbal infusions containing compounds with repellent properties have been investigated. For example:
- Peppermint tea – menthol may alter skin odor profile, but systemic absorption from drinking is minimal; topical application is more effective.
- Garlic‑flavored drinks – allicin metabolites can change body odor, yet concentrations achieved through ingestion are insufficient to repel bedbugs.
- Citrus‑based smoothies – vitamin C influences sweat composition, but no direct link to reduced biting has been demonstrated.
Probiotic‑rich beverages (yogurt drinks, kefir) may modify skin microbiota, which contributes to the scent profile detected by bedbugs. Preliminary research suggests that a balanced microbiome could lower attractiveness, but the effect is modest and requires consistent consumption over weeks.
In summary, the most reliable internal strategy is maintaining adequate hydration with water. Other drinks either lack supporting data or may increase susceptibility. For meaningful bite prevention, combine proper hydration with proven external measures such as mattress encasements, regular laundering, and insecticide‑treated fabrics.