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Converted from paper version of the Broad Ripple Gazette (v13n16)
Gettin' Ripped in Ripple - This Article Really Bugs Me! - by Laura Minor
posted: Aug. 05, 2016

Gettin' Ripped in Ripple header

This Article Really Bugs Me!

Good LORD this summer has been bloody hot already (as my darling English trainer, Rosie, would put it). And sadly for me, and likely several of you, which means a lot more sweating. . . and even worse: a lot more bug bites. I am cursed as one of those people who get devoured by bugs (mostly mosquitoes, but not only) while my friends and family seem untouched. The thought of going to an outdoor evening concert or an event makes me anxious just typing this, as I know, without adequate planning, I would be uncomfortably swatting away while my company looks at me like I am being over dramatic.
But, ah yes. It is a fact that about 20% of us get bitten more than others. Yep, I am one of the lucky 1 in 5. That BITES! So WHY do these little boogers prefer to dine on my already incredibly sensitive skin more than the next guy? There are several reasons, and go figure, I fit most of them. Read along to see how many of these factors define you.
  1. Breathing: Bugs locate their target by smelling the carbon dioxide emitted in their breath. Therefore, people who exhale more gas (found to be either larger people or frequent exercisers) have been shown to attract more mosquitoes. CHECK!
  2. Exercise and Metabolism: Victims are also found by the smell of the lactic acid in sweat and higher body temperatures. Strenuous exercise increases the buildup of lactic acid and heat in the body, which will make one stand out to the insects. CHECK!
  3. Pregnancy: The increase in bites for pregnant women is likely the result of increased carbon dioxide and body temperature. NOPE!
  4. Clothing Color: Dark and bright colors stand out to the mosquitoes. Note to self: wear dull looking clothing when outside!
  5. Cholesterol: People who are more efficient at processing cholesterol (which comes out through the skin) are more likely to be prey. CHECK!
  6. Movement: Mosquitoes are also more attracted to someone moving rather than one at rest due to the changes in waves of light around them. CHECK!
Wow, after seeing this list I might as well be the poster child for a buggy feast! Looks like exercise is the perfect recipe for disaster in regard to getting bites due to heat, CO2, lactic acid and movement. BUT don't let that be your excuse. . .
I don't know about you, but I am heading out now to get some really good bug spray and some white workout clothes.


Laura Minor owner and operator of So.Be.Fit. Personal Training and Fitness studio located at 54th and the Monon. She is passionate about teaching others how to "FIT" exercise and physical activity into their daily lives, and have fun while doing so! Visit her website at www.sobefitindy.com or e-mail laura@BroadRippleGazette.com



laura@broadripplegazette.com
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