The Virtues of Vitamin B1

Rumor has it that taking vitamin B1 - Thiamine - helps to ward off mosquito bites. Unfortunately, there are no documented scientific studies that have proven it.  Many studies, in fact, claim that this remedy may be useless.  The truth is that the attractant level of each individual to biting insects is based on a complex interaction of many chemical and visual signals. I can only relate my personal experiences and leave you to make your own conclusions. 

After my partner began taking Warfarin, an anticoagulant taken to thin the blood & prevent clotting, he became a misquito magnet.  Something about the effect of that medication on his system made him very attractive to them.  He was getting eaten alive at outdoor events!

Nothing seemed to deter them from their tasty meal.  Citronella just attracted them more.  Most of the commercial repellents did not work either, aside from DEET.  But not wanting to use such a harsh chemical on his body, he went searching online for an alternative.  That's when he encountered the controversial information about Vitamin B1, and he decided to try it.

Miraculously, it seems to work quite well.  Taking one tablet a day between April and October keeps the misquitoes away.  He no longer seems quite so yummy to them.  *smile*

It takes about two weeks to build up the vitamin B1 level in your system and there are many healthy, thiamine rich foods that you can eat to help too....

Sunflower seeds are particularly high in thiamin
Beans, such as black beans, green peas, and lentils
Whole grains such as oatmeal and brown rice
Yeast (brewer’s yeast supplements)
Dark leafy greens, like kale
Organ meats, such as liver
Enriched bread products
Cauliflower
Asparagus
Potatoes
Oranges
Pork
Corn
Eggs

One thing to note, since vitamin B1 is water soluable it is continually flushed from the body and your reserves will need to be replenished regularly either by taking a vitamin supplement or by eating any of the thiamine rich foods listed above.  Does it really work?  It seems to for us.  Is it worth trying?  Absolutely!  Let me know how it goes for you.