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There is a mistaken belief that intestinal parasites attack people only in underdeveloped countries or under poor hygienic conditions. In reality, however, they are a common problem even in developed areas. Finding out that you carry intestinal parasites is certainly unpleasant, but according to the World Health Organization more than 3 billion people worldwide suffer from them. Far from all of them live in poor conditions.
What types of parasites are there?
The two main types of intestinal parasites are called helminths and protozoa. Helminths are multicellular worms that cannot multiply in the human body. These include, for example, tapeworms, nematodes or roundworms. Protozoa, on the other hand, have only one cell and can reproduce freely in the human body. They cause serious infections.
Intestinal parasites are usually transmitted by contact with infected feces (for example through contaminated soil, food or water). Risk increases when visiting areas with a high prevalence of intestinal parasites, poor hygiene, a weak immune system, handling animals and also age – children or, conversely, older people are more often infected. Once infection occurs, parasites can easily be transmitted to other people.
Interference with food intake
As the name suggests, intestinal parasites live in our body and feed on it. In areas with a high level of hygiene they do not pose a great danger, but in poor countries and in places with poor hygienic conditions they are a real threat to life. When our intestines become host to parasites, even high acidity in the digestive system cannot kill them. The body therefore tries to defend itself using the immune system.
Intestinal parasites interfere with proper absorption of food and release toxins into the bloodstream and lymphatic system. In severe cases, partial or complete intestinal blockage may occur. This prevents the usual movement of food, fluids and gases. Heavy infestation can also cause bleeding into the intestines and thus anemia.
Symptoms are difficult to determine
Because there are many types of parasites that present with different symptoms, it is difficult to know whether they are in our body. The main general symptoms include excessive appetite or, conversely, loss of appetite, weight loss without an obvious cause, stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea or symptoms similar to irritable bowel syndrome, fluctuations in blood sugar as well as anxiety and depression.
Skin disorders may occur, for example severe itching around the anus or other parts of the body, as well as a rash or other skin irritation. Parasites can cause sleep disturbances, muscle, joint and other pains. Fatigue and exhaustion set in, libido decreases and there is often also a feeling of nausea. Blood may appear in the stool.
Conventional and alternative treatment options
Treatment can be carried out either with conventional medications or alternative therapeutic methods. Diagnosis is made by a stool test. Alternative treatment includes herbal remedies from garlic, goldenrod, anise, holly, wormwood, black walnut, mint, clove, oregano, thyme or olive leaves. Any herbs should, however, be consulted with a doctor beforehand to avoid contraindications with other medications.
It is also recommended to take probiotics, which help maintain the health of the digestive system. Digestive enzymes help restore the intestinal tract and return it to a normal state. Papain, an enzyme from papaya, can kill parasites if taken 30 minutes before or after a meal. Vitamin C supports the immune system and zinc is used to heal stomach ulcers.
How to eat?
Patients benefit from a diet rich in garlic, seeds, papaya, pineapple, carrots, red beet and pomegranates when consumed raw. Foods high in beta-carotene and drinking plenty of water help. It is recommended to avoid coffee and alcohol. Of course it is important to follow proper hygiene habits, wash your hands after using the toilet and before eating or preparing food and pay attention to the quality of drinking water and the quality of the foods we eat.
