July 26, 2024

Why Is “Parasitic Cleanse” Suddenly Trending? – What You Need to Know About Parasites & Maintaining a Healthy Gut

Parasites are fascinating organisms that have evolved to live in or on other living things, known as hosts. These tiny creatures come in various forms and can be found in humans, animals, and plants across the globe. We’ve all heard of the new latest craze – a parasitic cleanse. Are they even necessary? How can we know if we even have parasites? In this blog we’ll answer all your questions and give you all the information you need to know about how to maintain your gut health and if a parasitic cleanse is truly needed.

What are Parasites?

The CDC defines parasites as organisms that live off a host. They can be very harmful to humans and they can also be beneficial. Some parasites go completely unnoticed. Others can infect the digestion tract and other organ systems, making their hosts very sick. One of the most common parasitic infections in tropical and subtropical areas is Malaria. Ingestion is usually how parasites make it into the body. According to Healthline, trichomoniasis, giardiasis, cryptosporidiosis, and toxoplasmosis are some common parasitic infections in North America.

There are three main types of parasites that can negatively affect humans:

Protozoa: Single-celled organisms that can multiply within the host.
Helminths: Worm-like parasites, such as tapeworms and roundworms.
Ectoparasites: Organisms that live on the external surface of a host, like ticks and lice.

While anyone can potentially get parasites, certain factors may increase the risk. People who travel to or live in tropical or subtropical regions, or have compromised immune systems, or lack access to clean drinking water are more likely to encounter parasitic infections. Additionally, those who work in childcare, handle soil regularly, or come into frequent contact with feces may be at higher risk. However, regardless of where you may have picked up your unwanted guests, a parasitic cleanse might just be the thing you need.

How Do We Get Parasites?

While we routinely deworm pets and livestock, human parasite prevention is approached differently. Here’s an overview of how humans can get parasites and why we don’t typically “deworm” ourselves:

How humans can get parasites:

Contaminated food and water: Consuming undercooked meat, unwashed fruits/vegetables, or contaminated water can lead to parasite infections.
Poor hygiene: Not washing hands after using the bathroom or before handling food can spread parasites.
Contact with contaminated soil: Walking barefoot or gardening in contaminated soil can expose people to parasites like hookworms.
Pet contact: Close contact with pets, especially if they’re not regularly dewormed, can transmit certain parasites.
Travel: Visiting areas with poor sanitation increases the risk of parasite exposure.
Insect vectors: Some parasites are transmitted through insect bites, like malaria via mosquitoes.

Why we don’t routinely “deworm” humans:

Different prevalence: In developed countries, parasitic infections are less common in humans than in animals due to better sanitation and food safety practices.
Targeted approach: Human parasite infections are typically diagnosed and treated individually, rather than through mass deworming.
Potential side effects: Antiparasitic drugs can have side effects, so they’re not given without a clear medical need.
Resistance concerns: Overuse of antiparasitic drugs could lead to resistance, making them less effective when truly needed.
Preventive measures: In humans, the focus is more on prevention through hygiene, food safety, and targeted interventions in high-risk areas.

In some parts of the world with high parasite prevalence, mass deworming programs for humans do exist, particularly for children. However, in most developed countries, the approach to human parasite control focuses on prevention, diagnosis, and targeted treatment when necessary, rather than routine deworming.

Do You Need a Parasitic Cleanse?

Consuming infected food and water can cause Giardiasis (commonly called Giardia) or Cryptosporidiosis. These infections cause diarrheal symptoms including dehydration.
Toxoplasmosis is caused by one of the world’s most common parasites, Toxoplasma gondii. This infection can be caused by contaminated raw meat, cat feces or passed from mother to child.
Trichomoniasis is a sexually transmitted parasitic infection. If diagnosed by a medical professional, both partners would receive treatment.

Most parasitic infections present with symptoms like a fever, gut and body aches, swollen lymph nodes, weight loss and fatigue. Trichomoniasis in women presents with symptoms like painful urination, foul-smelling discharge and itching. Men commonly experience no symptoms. If diagnosed by a medical professional, both partners would receive treatment. Consult your doctor if experiencing any of these symptoms.

Are There Beneficial Parasites?

Parasites are often viewed negatively due to their association with diseases and discomfort. However, not all parasites are harmful; some can actually be beneficial to their hosts or the environment. While parasites are often associated with negative health impacts, some can offer significant benefits. From natural pest control in agriculture to potential therapeutic uses in human health, these organisms play complex and sometimes beneficial roles in their ecosystems and hosts. Understanding and harnessing these benefits could lead to innovative treatments and sustainable practices in both health and agriculture.

How to do we get rid of parasites?

Different parasitic infections require different treatments, so a parasitic cleanse may not be for everyone. Doctors will check stool samples for larvae or cysts and look at blood tests to form an accurate diagnosis. Some parasites can lead to chronic illnesses if not addressed by a medical practitioner. Remember, some parasitic infections may require prescription medications for effective treatment. Self-diagnosis and treatment without proper medical guidance can be risky.

Natural Parasitic Cleanse Using Herbs Believed to Have Anti-Parasitic Properties:

Wormwood (200 mg 3x daily)
Black walnut (250 mg 3x daily)
Clove oil (500 mg 4x daily or 4 cups of tea)
Oregano oil (500 mg 4x daily)
Grapefruit seed extract
Raw garlic
Pumpkin seeds

It’s important to note that while these methods are often suggested for a parasitic cleanse, their effectiveness can vary. Many health professionals recommend a targeted approach based on specific diagnosis rather than a very general parasitic cleanse. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen, especially if you suspect a parasitic infection.

The Role of a Healthy Microbiome

The microbiome consists of trillions of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, parasites, and viruses, that live in the digestive tract. These microorganisms perform several essential functions:

Digestion and Nutrient Absorption: The microbiome helps break down food, turning it into nutrients that the body can absorb and use. This includes the production of enzymes that aid in digesting indigestible carbohydrates.
Immune System Regulation: The microbiome stimulates the immune system and helps protect against pathogenic organisms by maintaining a balance between beneficial and harmful microbes.
Protection Against Disease: A healthy microbiome can reduce the risk of various diseases, including obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. It also plays a role in preventing gastrointestinal disorders like Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Mental Health: Emerging research suggests that the gut microbiome can influence mental health, potentially affecting mood and cognitive functions.

The Benefits of Probiotics

Probiotics are live beneficial bacteria that can be consumed through supplements or fermented foods. They offer several health benefits:

Restoring Gut Balance: Probiotics help maintain or restore a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which can be disrupted by factors like antibiotic use, poor diet, or illness. This balance is crucial for preventing dysbiosis, a state where harmful bacteria outnumber beneficial ones.
Supporting Digestion: Probiotics aid in digestion and can help alleviate symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders, such as IBS. They also help break down potentially toxic food compounds.
Boosting Immune Function: Probiotics can enhance the immune system, making the body more resilient against infections and diseases. They help keep harmful bacteria in check by competing for resources and space in the gut.
Improving Overall Health: Regular consumption of probiotics has been linked to various health benefits, including reduced allergy symptoms, improved lactose intolerance, and potentially better mental health.

How to Support a Healthy Microbiome

Diet: Consuming a diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can promote a healthy microbiome. Fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha are excellent sources of probiotics.
Hydration: Drinking plenty of water supports digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut environment.
Stress Management: High stress levels can negatively impact the gut microbiome. Practices like meditation, exercise, and adequate sleep can help manage stress and support gut health.
Avoiding Antibiotic Overuse: While antibiotics are essential for treating bacterial infections, their overuse can disrupt the gut microbiome. It’s important to use antibiotics only when necessary and as prescribed by a healthcare professional.

A healthy microbiome and the use of probiotics are integral to maintaining overall health. They support digestion, boost the immune system, protect against diseases, and even influence mental health. Adopting a balanced diet, staying hydrated, managing stress, and using antibiotics judiciously are key strategies for promoting a healthy gut microbiome.

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