Parasites have been getting a lot of air time on social media. Parasite cleanses have become one of the most common requests Smile gets from its customers. The popular narrative presented by online health gurus is that everyone has parasites evidenced by a wide variety of subtle symptoms. With all the social media hype, it can be hard to know what is true and what products are worth the investment. Here are some basic things to know:
- Intestinal parasites are possible but your risk may be low.
Parasites are organisms that depend on the host for nutrition and survival. The relationship is not mutually beneficial as the parasites extract resources and leave the host sick and depleted. Many people share concerns that these organisms have entered their digestive tract through contaminated food and water. This is possible but more-or-less likely under different circumstances. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that 25% of humans globally have a parasitic infection. This percentage grows to 50% in areas of poverty where access to clean water and hygienic conditions are scarce, primarily in developing countries. Young children are especially vulnerable as they fail to wash their hands and may spread fecal matter during play. Your risk of infection may grow significantly in these circumstances:
- Lack of access to clean water
- Living in close proximity to animals
- Crowded living with poor sanitation
- Consuming raw or undercooked meats
- Pooping outside in contaminated areas
- Walking barefoot on contaminated soil
Recently, an outbreak of a parasite -cyclosporaisis-on lettuce has spread through the United States. An infection is evidenced by distinct symptoms including weight loss and explosive diarrhea. The exact cause of the outbreak has not been shown but the Food And Drug administration is investigating Taylor Farms and lettuce from this farm have been recalled. It is advised to avoid the consumption of lettuce, especially in states where cyclosporiasis has been found.
Parasites are testable, and if you suspect you have been exposed you can ask your doctor to run tests. A primary care physician may be the most accessible option, but a gastrointestinal specialist may be best equipped if your primary care physician cannot or will not do the test.
- Everyone has microorganisms in their stomach…And that’s a good thing!
Humans have microorganisms that live inside of us that are mutually beneficial for both us and the organisms! These microorganisms fight bad bacteria, help us digest foods, and help regulate a wide range of bodily functions. Oftentimes, symptoms of digestive unease or infections can be attributed to these microorganisms being weakened or having died off. You can support a healthy population of microorganisms in your gut by taking probiotics- Smile offers several- and eating a diet full of fiber to feed the organisms. New Chapter’s: All Flora Probiotic contains both the necessary organisms for digestive health and the fiber to feed them. The cultures are guaranteed survival to the best buy date.
One should note that the herbs most recommended for parasite cleanses- wormwood and black walnut hull – are very effective but will also kill off the mutually beneficial microorganisms. This can worsen the symptoms that the consumer attributed to parasites. It is imperative to check with your doctor first to confirm you have parasites before taking a heavy handed approach that could potentially cause more harm than good.
- Tick Season is Here!
With the focus on intestinal parasites, ticks are very much overlooked. Ticks are parasites that embed themselves in the skin of warm-blooded animals to consume their blood. Ticks do not give any benefit to their host but spread life altering diseases such as Lyme. It is estimated that 31 million Americans experience a tick bite a year. Because of global warming, the tick population has been growing. The Center of Disease Control (CDC) received a record number of reports of tick bites this year.
The best way to avoid tick-borne illness is to prevent a tick from embedding itself. Ticks jump on their hosts from trees and tall grass. If you expect to be outside in a wooded area this summer, it is wise to be covered. Long sleeves, long pants, and socks are safe options. For those who are opposed to DEET, Jewelweed is an effective tick repellant. I take WiseWays: Jewelweed Salve on every camping trip, and I have not had an incident with ticks since I began working with Jewelweed. It is also a good decision to check yourself for ticks at the end of hikes or garden chores.
Parasites are very real and your life circumstances can impact your risk level. If your personal risk assessment shows that you may have been exposed to a parasite, feel empowered to ask your doctor for a test. Speak with your child’s school nurse about the precautions being taken to protect your children and advocate for good sanitation in your community. And above all, do not move with fear but education from reputable sources.
For More Information:
Smile Herb Blogs: Cleansing
Smile Herb Blogs: Probiotics
Smile Herb Blogs: DIY Bug Spray
Cleveland Clinic: Intestinal Parasites
CDC Data Show Weekly ER Visits for Tick Bites Higher than Usual
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