By: Dr. Mary Pardee
Does everyone need to do a "parasite cleanse"?
In today's wellness world, discussions around parasites and parasite cleanses are trending, often driven by social media.
To provide clarity on this topic, Dr. Mary Pardee spoke with Dr. Bobbi Pritt, a professor of clinical microbiology and chair of the Division of Clinical Microbiology at the Mayo Clinic.
With over 220 publications and leadership in parasitology, Dr. Pritt is an authority on the subject. Our conversation covered the science behind parasites, debunked popular myths, and discussed effective treatments.
What Are Parasites?
Dr. Pritt began by explaining that a parasite is an organism that lives in or on a host, often without benefiting the host.
Parasites can be either single-celled or multi-celled organisms. Common examples include helminths (worms) and protozoa.
Though parasites usually don’t benefit their host, not all are harmful. Some, known as commensal parasites, coexist with the host without causing harm or providing any benefits. For instance, certain gut parasites feed on bacteria without negatively impacting the host.
One of the most common parasites in the United States is head lice. However, today's conversation will focus on gastrointestinal parasites only.
Common Types of Worms
In the U.S., visible parasitic worms are rare, but they can occur, especially after consuming contaminated food or water while traveling to areas with poor sanitation. Dr. Pritt broke down some of the most common intestinal worms:
Pinworms (Enterobius vermicularis): small, white worms about the length of a staple that live in the rectum of humans. About 20% of children will get pinworms, which are more common in school-age children than pre-schoolers. Adults are rarely affected, except for parents of infected children.
Roundworms: These long, cylindrical worms, like Ascaris, are often visible in the stool as white or yellowish worms and can be contracted through food or water contaminated with eggs.
Tapeworms: Flat, segmented worms, tapeworms may shed segments (called proglottids) that appear in the stool. They are often contracted by eating undercooked meat, especially pork or beef.
Hookworms: Typically smaller and less visible, hookworms can be contracted by walking barefoot on soil contaminated with hookworm larvae, which can then penetrate the skin.
Parasites in Fish- Sushi
Dr. Pritt also discussed parasites in wild fish, such as Anisakis and Diphyllobothrium, which are part of the natural ecosystem.
Proper freezing or cooking kills these parasites, making sushi at reputable restaurants generally safe, as they follow FDA guidelines for freezing.
However, preparing raw fish at home without freezing can increase the risk of parasitic exposure. Dr. Pritt emphasized that the risk of serious health issues from parasitized fish is low when proper handling and cooking practices are followed.
The Importance of Diagnosis and Regulated Treatment
For those concerned about parasites, Dr. Pritt highlighted the need for accurate diagnosis. Stool tests or other diagnostic procedures should be used to confirm infections before treatment. Effective medications like Praziquantel or Ivermectin—both derived from natural sources but purified for safety and efficacy—are the gold standard for treatment.
Natural Supplements: Friend or Foe?
Natural supplements often contain active ingredients, meaning they function similar to medications. While some people turn to supplements for treating parasitic infections, Dr. Pritt advised caution. The supplement industry is unregulated, meaning that over-the-counter products might not contain what they claim or at the dosage needed to be effective.
While natural substances like wormwood (used to treat malaria) have proven medicinal value, unregulated supplements can vary widely in quality. Dr. Pritt recommended that patients stick with FDA-approved treatments prescribed by healthcare providers, which are purified and have known dosages to ensure safety and efficacy.
Debunking Myths: Full Moon Cleanses and Low Iron
Popular wellness trends, like treating parasites during a full moon, lack scientific backing. Dr. Pritt pointed out that while the moon affects tides, it has no proven impact on parasites or treatment/cleanse effectiveness.
Another myth is the association between low iron and parasites. In the U.S., low iron is usually caused by factors like heavy menstrual periods or other underlying conditions—not parasitic infections. Though parasites like hookworm can cause low iron in certain parts of the world, it’s rarely the cause in developed countries.
Blastocystis Hominis: A Parasite or Harmless Coexistence?
Blastocystis hominis, a single-celled protozoan parasite, has been a subject of debate. Dr. Pritt explained that while it was once thought to be harmful, recent studies suggest it might actually be linked to good gut health. For now, the jury is still out on whether it needs to be eradicated. Physicians often take a holistic view of the patient’s symptoms before deciding on treatment for Blastocystis.
Dr. Pritt underscores the importance of scientific research and professional guidance when it comes to treating parasitic infections. While trends and cleanses may promise quick fixes, the reality is that parasites require accurate diagnosis and proven treatments for safe and effective care.
For those interested in learning more about parasites, Dr. Pritt runs an educational blog, Creepy Dreadful Wonderful Parasites, which offers real case studies, fascinating insights, and resources for healthcare professionals and enthusiasts alike.
Dr. Pritt’s blog, Creepy Dreadful Wonderful Parasites
Dr. Pritt's weekly laboratory leadership podcast “Answers from the Lab”
Follow Dr. Pritt on Facebook
Follow Dr. Pritt on X @ParasiteGal
Questions? Let us know below. We're happy to address them on our social media for everyone to benefit.
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