By Alyssa Burnham, ND
Naturopathic Doctor at Wise Woman Wellness
Did you shudder a bit when you read the word “parasites” in the title? It’s not a pleasant topic! However, intestinal parasites are more common than many people realize. Regular parasite cleanses have been a part of many cultures around the world for centuries.
Parasites are living organisms that live off of their human hosts. There are a number of possible types of parasites, and many can have a negative impact on your health. Although parasites are a bigger problem in developing countries, parasitic infections occur surprisingly often in North America, too.
Worried About Parasites? Watch Out For These Symptoms
Parasites can live inside you without showing symptoms for years. Some general things to watch for include:
- Digestive issues such as diarrhea, nausea or vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Skin disorders like rash, eczema, hives, or unexplained chronic itching
- Unexplained weight loss
- Fatigue
- Nutrient deficiencies
- Muscle aches or joint pain
- Itching around your rectum
Diagnosing and Flushing Parasites Out Of The Body
Because of the broad range of symptoms, many of which could be associated with other conditions, it can be tricky to identify parasites. The first step is to complete a stool test to check for the presence of parasites. In integrative medicine, many practitioners will use a combination of antiparasitic herbs plus nutritional protocols to make the gut an inhabitable environment for the parasites. Some of the herbs used to treat intestinal parasites can interfere with prescription medications, therefore it’s important to work with a knowledgeable healthcare practitioner.
Parasite Cleansing
Following a parasitic cleanse can help rid your body of parasites. During the cleanse, you’ll combine nutritional strategies with herbal remedies, with the aim of expelling parasites from your body and creating and creating an inhospitable environment for further growth.
During the cleanse, it’s important to maintain a well-balanced diet to maintain good health, and focus on natural, unprocessed foods. Eating a high fiber diet can contribute to regular bowel movements to flush out parasites and contribute to a healthy gut microbiome.
The exact approach will be determined by your health practitioner after testing. A parasite cleanse could include the following in your diet:
- Foods with antiparasitic properties like onions, garlic, and honey.
- Foods high in zinc, such as seafood, whole grains, and legumes.
- Fermented foods like sauerkraut to contribute to a healthy gut bacteria.
- Foods high in vitamin A, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, and mangos.
- Foods high in vitamin C to strengthen your overall well being and immunity.
- Herbs that have proven effective in treating parasites including oregano, thyme, rosemary, marjoram, and cumin.
Preventing Parasites
Prevention is the best way to protect yourself from parasites! Here are some simple everyday practices to keep in mind:
- Wash your food thoroughly and your hands frequently – and always after touching raw food, using the bathroom, changing cat litter or dealing with animal feces.
- Drink clean water. Avoid unpasteurized milk and juices.
- Cook food to the correct temperature.
- Approach raw fish sushi with caution.
- Some studies suggest a diet rich in vitamin A and the minerals selenium and zinc may improve your body’s natural defense against a parasite infection.
- Practice safe sex.
Don’t be embarrassed to talk about parasites if you have any questions or concerns. The most important step is to test and treat if appropriate. Call us today to get started.
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