Download Mark Garzon, MD National Integrated Health Associates Capital

Mark Garzon, MD
National Integrated Health Associates
Capital University of Integrative Medicine
April 18, 2003
P
arasites are any organism that derives its food, nutrition and shelter by living in or on
another organism. Parasites are very common in nature with more organisms
categorized as parasites as opposed to those that are non-parasites. Humans can
be host to over 100 different types of parasites. We often perceive parasites to be a
disease of developing nations and, in countries with poor sanitation, this may be true; however,
in November 1993 the
National Institute of Allergy
…over 4 billion people infected
and
Infectious
Disease
(NIAID)
reported
that
with parasitic disease
parasites in the U.S. affects
millions of Americans. The
Centers for Disease Control
(CDC)
estimates
that
between 100,000 and 1,000,000 cases of Giardia lamblia occur each year. In the Spring of
1993, 100 persons died and 400,000 became seriously ill because of contamination of the water
supply in Milwaukee by the parasite, Cryptosporidium. A nationwide survey by the CDC in 1976
estimated that one in every six people, selected at random, had one or more parasites.
Circulated worldwide, the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) reported in 1984
that more than one-half of the 8.3 billion people on Earth were infected with parasitic disease.
One person can pass millions of G. lamblia cysts each day, and most infections probably result
from ingestion of water or food contaminated with human sewage. Open sewers in city streets
and contamination of drinking water with this sewage undoubtedly results in many infections.
Many cases of "traveler's diarrhea" are caused by Giardia. Even in developed countries potable
water can be contaminated with small amounts of sewage, especially when septic systems are
built too close to wells. Thus, it is not surprising that G. lamblia is found throughout the world.
Every year many people return from
camping trips to find that they are suffering
Ingestion of one or more cysts may cause disease, as
from giardiasis, but the source of these
contrasted to most bacterial illnesses where hundreds
to thousands of organisms must be consumed to
infections remains uncertain.
Some
produce illness. http://vm.cfsan.fda.gov/~mow/chap22.html
authorities believe that Giardia infects a
number of animals other than humans,
particularly beavers, and that campers contract giardiasis from drinking stream water
contaminated with cysts from beavers (hence, "beaver fever"). Other authorities, however,
believe that these cases result from streams contaminated with human feces. Although
mountain streams may appear to be "sparkling clean," some camper upstream may be using
your drinking water as a toilet! Thus, no matter what it looks like, stream water should be
treated before drinking. Boiling will kill Giardia cysts, and there are commercially available filters
that will remove the cysts from water.
http://www.biosci.ohio-state.edu/~parasite/giardia.html
Why is there a rise in parasitic infection in non-developing countries?
Rise in international travel
We are a people on the move. Air travel in just another means of transportation and people
who visit other countries are exposed to different organisms. In St. Petersburg, Russia the city’s
tap water is infected with Giardia. Visitors to Nepal are routinely stricken with this same
parasite. Symptoms are Giardia infection include severe diarrhea, fever, chills, muscle pain, and
intestinal bloating. Chronic illness has been known to cause irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and
chronic fatigue.
Travelers to China often return with roundworms caused by widespread agricultural use of night
soil (human waste). The pulmonary phase of the infection can cause cough, wheezing, and
bronchial spasms. The intestinal phase may mimic peptic ulcer.
The CDC warns travelers to African countries on the dangers of bathing in fresh water that may
be infected with blood flukes (shistosomiasis), which can cause fever and chills, eosinophilia
(extensive infiltration of gastric mucosa with eosinophils), abdominal pain and enlargement of
the liver and spleen.
Water contamination
Once the organism, Cryotosporidium parvum, became resistant to chlorine, it easily spread in
hospitals, daycare centers, and households. A 1993 report showed contamination of water
supplies in one-quarter of fourteen states that were tested. Once seen only in mountain
streams and international water supplies, Giardia lamblia may now be in 50% of all American
water supplies, according to Dr. Steven Rochlitz. Giardia is not killed by chlorination.
Drinking water is further contaminated by rural and urban watersheds through human sewage
due to inadequate purification systems.
Day Care Centers
Giardia outbreaks due to the growth of day care centers for diapered children have resulted in
rampant parasitic infections nationwide. The CDC estimates 20,000 new cases yearly. In a
CDC survey of various American child day care centers, it found astounding results. In a center
in Fulton County, Georgia 25% of all the children were infected with Giardia. In New Haven,
Connecticut 50% of the children were infected and in Anaheim, California there was a 43%
infection rate.
Giardia cysts easily lodge under fingernails and spread from one child to the next during diaper
changes. Giardia also is transmitted through fecal contact with toys, through drinking faucets
and through hand-to-mouth contact.
The Centers for Disease Control estimates that 20% of parents caring for sick children become
infected with Giardia.
Immigration
Immigrants from the South Pacific, Mexico, South America, Asia and Haiti may be carriers
without having any overt symptoms of disease. New immigrants often work in restaurants
where food contamination may occur.
In 1992 in New York City, CT scans showed pork tapeworm cysts in the brains of four Orthodox
Jews, who had never eaten pork. The link among these individuals was a Central American
housekeeper who had contaminated the food sources.
Armed Forces
During the Viet Nam War thousands of returning troops carried parasite-induced diseases.
Nearly 54,000 soldiers returning from Operation Desert Storm were told not to donate blood
because of the high incidence of the parasitic disease leishmaniasis, spread by desert sand
flies.
Pets
Pets are hosts to numerous parasites and the unexpected spreaders of disease. There are 240
infectious diseases spread by animals to humans: 65 by dogs and 39 by cats. Dogs are known
to carry Giardia lamblia picked up by ground water or animal waste. Of all house cats in
America, 85% sleep with their owners. Dog and cat roundworm, hookworm, and cat-transmitted
toxoplasmosis can become severe in a pregnant woman (see appendix 4) and even lifethreatening if immuno-compromised. Parasites can also be transmitted by raccoons, birds,
rodents, and rabbits as well. In one case, a one-year old boy nearly died after contracting
microscopic roundworm eggs commonly found in raccoon feces.
Processed and Sugary Foods
As with any organism, parasites need food. Parasites thrive in a sugar-laden environment. The
average American eats approximately 150 pounds of sugar per year. A diet change could cut
the food supply to any parasites. Changes in diet, such as avoidance of simple sugars (sucrose
and white sugar), are vital. Carbohydrates break down into sugars. Some complex
carbohydrates like corn, potatoes, brown rice and whole wheat are quickly absorbed by our
bodies in much the same way as simple sugars are.
Exotic Foods
Raw or undercooked foods have led to an increased incidence of parasites. The usual suspects
in this category include sushi, sashimi, steak tar tare, ceviche, and Dutch herring. Pacific red
snapper and Pacific salmon are most frequently infested with anisakid worms, a parasite also
found in Atlantic haddock.
Aniskid larvae will survive undercooking and/or microwave cooking. The illness resulting from
these worms is called anisakiasis, a gastrointestinal illness resembling Crohn’s disease;
stomach ulcers, and appendicitis. Another culprit is cyclospora. Several outbreaks of illness
were reported due to this parasite, the worst of which involved 1,000 persons becoming ill from
tainted raspberries imported from Guatemala.
Antibiotics and Immunosuppressive Drugs
When the gastrointestinal tract is in a healthy balance there is less opportunity for parasitic
infections. Antibiotics cause yeast overgrowth, which in turn promotes Trichomonas vaginalis
infection, the symptoms of which include foul-smelling vaginal discharge, burning sensation, and
inflammation.
In some areas of the country Trichomonas is found in 50% of all women. When passed to the
male partner it can cause non-specific urethritis.
Immuno-compromised, or those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy for cancer or organ
transplant, are at far greater risk for life-threatening toxoplasmosis.
The Sexual Revolution
An increase in the number of sexual partners directly increases the likelihood of Trichomonas
vaginalis, Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia lamblia, pinworms, and pork tapeworms.
HIV/AIDS
Persons infected with HIV/AIDS are very vulnerable to many opportunistic infections. A
connection has been demonstrated between AIDS and amebiasis, Pneumocystis carinii,
cryptosporidiosis, and strongyloidiasis.
In 1985 PBS aired a show on Nova entitled, “Conquest of the Parasites”, in which it documented
parasites as the “great neglected diseases”. “Great” because they affect hundreds of millions of
people and neglected by the public, physicians, and the political and funding agencies of the
world.
Hookworm disease affected 900 million people, ending in death for 60,000, but the world’s
agencies spend less than $1 million on hookworm research.
Warning Signs of Parasite Infection
Constipation
Some worms can physically obstruct certain organs. Blockage of the common bile duct in the
gall bladder and the intestinal tract can make elimination infrequent and difficult.
Diarrhea
Some parasites, primarily protozoa, produce a prostaglandin that creates a sodium and chloride
loss that leads to frequent, watery stools.
Gas and Bloating
Some parasites live in the upper small intestine, where the inflammation they produce causes
both gas and bloating. This problem worsens with the eating of hard-to-digest foods such as
beans, raw fruits and raw vegetables. Persistent abdominal distension is a frequent sign of
hidden invaders.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Parasites can irritate, inflame and coat the intestinal cell wall, leading to a variety of
gastrointestinal symptoms and malabsorption of vital nutrients, particularly fatty substance. The
malabsorption leads to bulky stools and excess fat in the feces (steatorrhea).
Joint and Muscle Aches and Pains
Parasites can migrate and become enclosed in a sac (encyst) in joint fluids, and worms can
encyst in the muscles. When this happens, pain becomes evident and is often assumed to be
arthritis. Joint and muscle pain and inflammation are also the result of tissue damage caused
by the body’s ongoing immune response.
Anemia
Some intestinal worms attach themselves to the mucosal lining of the intestines and leach
nutrients from the human host. If they are present in large enough numbers, they can create
enough blood loss to cause a type of iron deficiency.
Allergy
Parasites can irritate and sometimes perforate the intestinal lining, increasing bowel
permeability to large undigested molecules. This can activate the body’s immune response to
produce increased levels of eosinophils. The eosinophils can inflame the body tissue, resulting
in an allergic reaction.
Skin Conditions
Intestinal worms can cause hives, rashes, eczema and other allergic-type skin reactions.
Protozoa invasion can cause cutaneous ulcers, swelling and sores, papular lesions and
dermatitis.
Granulomas
Granulomas are tumor-like masses that encase destroyed larva or parasitic eggs. They most
often develop in the colon or rectal walls, but can also be found in the lungs, liver, peritoneum,
and uterus.
Anxiety
Metabolic wastes and toxic substances form parasites can act as irritants to the central nervous
system. Restlessness and anxiety are often the result of parasitic infestation.
Insomnia
Awakening during the night, particularly between 2 and 4 am are possibly caused by the body’s
attempts to eliminate toxic wastes via the liver.
Teeth Grinding
Bruxism has been observed in cases of parasitic infection. Most notable in sleeping children,
this is thought to be a nervous response to a foreign irritant.
Chronic Fatigue
Tiredness, flu-like complaints, apathy, depression, impaired concentration, and faulty memory
may all be symptomatic of malnutrition. In the presence of a parasitic infection, malnutrition
results from malabsorption of proteins, carbohydrate, fats and especially vitamins A and B12.
Immune Dysfunction
Parasites depress immune system functioning by decreasing the secretion of IgA. IgA
deficiency results from low levels of or complete absence of immune globulin A, which causes
decreased immune function in the mucosal surfaces (e.g., mouth, gastrointestinal tract, and
lungs) and results in increased risk for respiratory and gastrointestinal infections. It is associated
with autoimmune diseases. The presence of parasites continuously stimulates the immune
response and eventually can exhaust it, leaving the body vulnerable to bacterial and viral
infections.
Diagnosis
As with any illness, suspicion and recognition that there may be a problem are the first steps in
reaching a diagnosis (see questionnaire, appendix 5). Traditionally, diagnosis is reached
through laboratory analysis of stool specimens; however, these tests can be misleading. Some
parasites reside in the blood and tissue (malaria, filariasis, trichinosis) and will not be seen in
the stool samples. Parasites more prevalent in children, such as pinworm and dogworms
(visceral larva milagrans) are rarely seen in the stool. Many parasites do not appear in the stool
because they dwell in the gastrointestinal lining (lumen). They strongly adhere to the intestinal
mucosa, unless they are pulled out from the lining. Even with parasites, the drive to survive is
strong. Parasites do not willingly exit a host that is supplying adequate food and shelter.
In some species, for example Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia lamblia, and stronglyloides, the
cyst, egg or segment secretion varies from day to day. Most parasitologists suggest
examination of three stool samples. Some even recommend up to nine samples, if the first
three are negative and clinical symptoms persist. Even with this many samples, the diagnosis
may still be missed.
Some substances can suppress the shedding of amoebas into stool, but don’t kill the parasites.
These substances are barium, bismuth, kaolin, soapsuds enemas, and antibiotics. Broadspectrum antibiotics may prevent the shedding of amoeba for months. Examples of broadspectrum antibiotics currently in use are: Zithromax (azithromycin), Biaxin (clarithromycin),
Augmentin (amoxicillin-clavulavate), Cipro (ciprofloxacin), Floxin (ofloxacin), Levaquin
(levofloxacin), Zagam (sparfloxacin), and Trovan (trovafloxacin).
Here are some of the more accurate methods of testing currently available:
Purged Stool Test
This is widely considered superior to the random stool tests. This is the test of choice for
identifying the presence of Giardia, amoeba, roundworm, threadworm, tapeworm, hookworm,
Cryptosporidium, liver flukes, blood flukes, Strongyloides, and blastocystis. Parasites rarely
appear before the fourth bowel movement and often as many as twelve are required to yield a
positive result.
The test begins with 1.5 ounces of Fleet Phospho-Soda on an empty stomach. Care must be
taken with hypertensive patients, in which case 2-3 tablespoons of Epsom salts in a large glass
of warm water can be substituted.
This test is contraindicated in the presence of
gastrointestinal obstruction, pregnancy, appendicitis, and debilitation.
Bueno-Parrish Test
This test involves a rectal mucus swab combined with immunofluorescent stains that identify
Giardia and Cryptosporidium. There is a high rate of positive findings using this method, even
with a negative purged stool test. In a test case of patients suffering from irritable bowel
syndrome, almost 50% were found to have Giardia infection using the Bueno-Parrish Test.
String Test
There are other methods of discovery if both the purged stool test and the Bueno-Parrish Test
have revealed negative results and if Giardia is still strongly suspected.
These tests are
Enterotest (string test), duodenal aspiration, and duodenojejunal biopsy.
The string test is most simple. The patient swallows a gelatin capsule containing a string. One
end of the string is attached to the patient’s cheek while the other is attached to the capsule. As
3-4 hours the string is withdrawn through the mouth and mucous examined microscopically.
This test is also effective for diagnosing Strongyloides.
Blood Tests and Other Laboratory Tests
Eosinophil count – Roundworm and hookworm can increase eosinophil count (eosinophilia) by
25%, strongyloides may increase eosinophils by greater than 25%. Toxocara and pinworm may
also cause eosinophilia. Giardia and amoeba rarely cause eosinophilia. Many physicians
dismiss elevated eosinophils as an indicator of allergy, not realizing primary allergy is parasite
itself.
Low serum protein and potassium – This can indicate the presence of Strongyloides.
Low vitamin B12 – This may indicate the presence of fish tapeworm.
Low folic acid, iron, and calcium levels – This may mean Giardia.
Low serum iron – This may indicate the presence of hookworm.
Elevated alkaline phosphatase – This has been found in cases of amebiasis.
Serum antibody tests – This is available for Entamoeba histolytica, Strongyloides; blood, liver,
and lung flukes; Toxacara canis, Leishmania, Toxoplasma gondii, malaria, filarial, cysticerci,
heartworm, and Trichinella spiralis.
Salivary GI tests – There is a saliva test available for detecting Entamoeba histolytica. The
saliva tests are also good for testing allergic-type responses to certain foods such gliadin and
milk.
Urine tests – There are urine tests to detect the presence of blood fluke eggs and microfilariae
in filarial infection.
Tissue swabs – Perianal swabbing can be used to recover eggs of the pork tapeworm, beef
tapeworm, and blood fluke. Regular, household Scotch tape is used to test for pinworm. The
female adult worm lays eggs around the perianal area in the early morning hours. Specimens
are best obtained at these hours before bathing. Transparent tape pressed against both sides
of the anal and perianal area are then transferred to a glass slide for microscopic examination.
Cultures – Strongyloides are among the easiest parasites to culture from stool. Intestinal
amoeba, roundworm, blood fluke, and Leishmania have also been successfully cultured.
Prenatal tests – Toxoplasmosis infection of the fetus can be detected by ultrasound.
Toxoplasmosis infection can cause mental retardation and blindness. Some countries require
all pregnant women to be tested for toxoplasmosis. Now available, is a blood anti-Toxoplasma
antibody test which provides a fast screening test. During her annual Pap smear, a woman can
insist of screening for pinworms, Ascaris and filaria (all of which have been found in the vagina).
Types of Parasites
There are 300 different types of parasites in the United States today. The Centers for Disease
Control estimates the number to be much higher, even in the thousands. Parasites are
categorized according to their structure, shape, function, and reproductive ability.
Categories of Parasites
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Nematodes (Nematoda) include roundworms, pinworms, and hookworms.
Protozoa are single-celled organisms that include Toxoplasma, Giardia,
Cryptosporidium, and amoeba.
Tapeworms (Cestoda)
Flukes (Trematoda)
The most common gastrointestinal parasites are
roundworms, pinworms, and tapeworms.
Roundworms (Ascaris lumbricoides) are the most common intestinal parasite in the world.
About 1 billion persons are currently infected with this organism. This creature is spread directly
to humans from soil or from food contaminated with feces.
Children are very prone roundworm infection. Although
CDC/Division of Parasitic Diseases:
roundworms are found worldwide, they are more prevalent
http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd/
in tropical and subtropical areas, especially in Asian
countries which practice crop fertilization with “night soil” (raw human sewage). These worms
are mobile and can travel up into the liver, heart and lungs; growing up to 35 cm in length.
Persons with this infection suffer from malnutrition due to competition for food and the inhibition
of absorption of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Roundworms are diagnosed when their eggs
are found in a stool specimen.
Pinworms (Enterobius vermicularis) are the most common of all worms in the United States,
most prevalent in children. Pinworm infestation is picked up through contact with contaminated
food, water, house dust, as well as human contact. The adult female moves outside the anus to
lay eggs, then the eggs are transferred from itching anal area to the mouth. Pinworms can
quickly transmit to the entire family through the bathtub, toilet and bed clothes. Perianal itching
is the most common symptom. A ten-year study of 2,000 cases of pinworm in children linked
seemingly unrelated symptoms, i.e. epilepsy, hyperactivity, and vision problems. The treatment
for pinworms is the prescription drug, Vermox (chewable).
Tapeworms are found in three types of meats -- each a different species, all treated the same.
They are the beef tapeworm (Taenia saginata), pork tapeworm (Taenia solium), and fish
tapeworm (Diphyllobothrium latum).
Despite its size, several feet in length, the beef tapeworm does not produce many symptoms. It
thrives on carbohydrates consumed by its host, utilizing the tissue of its host for a source of
protein. Thankfully, most beef tapeworms live a solitary life, but that life usually lasts twenty to
twenty-five years. The common symptoms of this infection are diarrhea, abdominal cramping,
nervousness, nausea, and loss of appetite. The treatment is the prescription drug, Biltricide.
The pork tapeworm is similar to the beef tapeworm, but shorter in size. These worms are
typically transmitted to their human host through undercooked pork, such as fresh or smoked
ham or sausage. These parasites usually produce multiple worms living in the same host.
Immature larvae can migrate into the muscles, heart, eyes, and brain. The treatment is the
prescription drug, Biltricide.
The fish tapeworm is the largest parasite found in humans. Commonly found in Scandinavia,
Russia, Japan, Australia, the Great Lakes of North America, Canada, and Alaska, this parasite
can be contracted by eating raw or lightly cooked freshwater or migratory fish. The list of fish
includes Alaskan salmon, perch, pike, pickerel, and American turbot. The most common
symptoms are pain and fullness of the abdomen, nausea, and anorexia. The most debilitating
effect of this infection is a B12 deficiency or pernicious anemia. The treatment is the prescription
drug, Biltricide.
Treatment
The goal of any parasitic treatment is to eradicate the parasites and not just relieve the
symptoms. People who live together can infect one another when making food for one another
or sharing the bathroom. It’s a good idea to treat all household members at the same time.
The protocol for treatment of gastrointestinal parasites is as follows:
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Cleansing the intestinal tract
Modifying the diet
Administering parasitic elimination substances
Recolonizing the GI tract with friendly bacteria
Avoiding re-infection by eliminating risk factors
Cleansing
This process is important because parasites often are embedded in the intestinal wall and can
be more difficult to treat because of mucus and encrusted matter overlying the worms.
Guidelines for a thorough cleanse include:
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Using products containing psyllium seed husk fiber, flaxseed fiber and bran fiber
all of which are gentle and effective bulking agents for removal of accumulated
wastes
Drinking plenty of water, as water absorption lubricates old fecal matter
Irrigating the colon through colon hydrotherapy dislodges and removes toxins in
the large intestine
Modifying the diet, the goal being to support the host and starve the parasite. A diet high
in simple carbohydrates like sugar, white flour and processed foods provides an ideal feeding
ground for worms. A diet low in fiber may have initially provided a breeding ground for
parasites, slowing down food passage, allowing food to decay and putrefy (producing stagnation
in the colon).
A good modified diet would include:
• 25% good-quality fat, including one to two tablespoons of unprocessed expeller
pressed safflower, sesame, flax oil or omega oil blend (Udo’s Choice or Pharmax
3:6:9)
• 25% protein, which provides amino acid building blocks for tissue regeneration.
Good sources of protein would be well-cooked meat, chicken, fish and eggs.
High fiber protein sources such as beans, nuts, seeds, peas, and legumes may
produce flatulence and may be more irritating to the GI tract than bulking agents
like psyllium, flaxseed, and bran.
• Avoidance of foods that produce an alkaline condition (see appendix 6). An
overly alkaline condition in the GI tract provides a favorable environment for
parasites. Soy products leave an alkaline residue in the GI tract and should be
eaten in moderation, i.e. not more than 1-2 servings a week.
• Limiting or avoiding dairy products.
Some parasites like Giardia and
roundworm may precipitate a secondary lactose intolerance that may persist for
months after elimination of parasites.
• Limiting gluten in diet. Giardia can produce gluten intolerance. All protozoan
infection can damage the intestinal villi, so reduce grain intake should be
encouraged (gluten-free rice and millet are acceptable).
• Avoiding raw fruits and vegetables. Raw fruits and vegetables, plus cold or
iced drinks, can cause the intestines to contract, thereby holding in toxins. Cook
most fruits and vegetables so that they are more easily digested.
• Digestive enzymes. Well-absorbed vitamin and mineral supplementation will be
helpful. (A tapeworm is able to absorb up to 75-100% of physiological dose of
vitamin B12.) Digestive enzymes with meals are important for complete digestion
of foods.
Administering parasite elimination substances, may mean assaulting the parasite
using a combination of substances, including prescription and herbal, plus the device described
next.
Sputnik is a metal capsule with a battery inside that taken orally. According to the website
(http://parasiteremedies.com/) the capsule emits frequencies that are lethal to parasites as it
passes through the GI tract. The capsule consists of two hemispheres, which serve as
electrodes. It switches itself on as soon as it finds itself in the electrolyte environment of the GI
system.
The capsule dimensions are 11 X 22.5 mm. The strength of the pulse is 10 mA, the amplitude
is 4.5 V, and the frequency is 50 Hertz. Average passage through the body is 24-36 hours.
Not every administration of the capsule will produce visual evidence of parasites. The smaller
ones will have disintegrated and will not be in evidence. In the case of larger parasites, e.g.
tapeworms, the parasites emerge shredded into sections, killed by the current of the capsule
and forcibly expelled by the strong peristaltic waves induced in the intestinal tract.
Prescription Anti-Parasite Remedies
Antihelminthic drugs are available only with a prescription and are available as liquids, tablets or
capsules. Some commonly used antihelminthics include: albendazole (Albenza), mebendazole
(Vermox), niclosamide (Niclocide), oxamniquine (Vansil), praziquantel (Biltricide), pyrantel
(Antiminth), pyantel pamoate (Antiminth) and thiabendazole
Helminth:
(Mintezol).
An intestinal vermiform parasite,
primarily nematodes, cestodes,
trematodes, and canthocephalans.
Regular medical visits are recommended for people affected by
parasitic infestations. The physician monitors whether the
infection is clearing or not and also keeps track of unwanted side effects. The prescribing
physician should be informed if symptoms do not disappear or if they get worse.
http://www.principalhealthnews.com/topic/parasitedrugs
Herbal remedies and homeopathic remedies have long been used to eliminate parasites.
Due to the vast number of illnesses implicating parasites as the cause, a regular natural
digestive detoxification program including an anti-parasite formula and colon cleanser to
promote proper elimination has been recommended by
Suggested Reading
various naturopaths.
Parasites: The Enemy Within by Hanna Kroeger
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Black Walnut Extract is regularly used for
destroying most types of intestinal worms. Various formulated products are available.
You may experience diarrhea while using products with black walnut as the body flushes
the intestines.
Grapefruit Seed Extract is also effective in destroying parasites and may be taken
internally and used to wash raw fruits and vegetables before eating.
Cayenne, garlic, and turmeric support proper immune system function and help
destroy some worms.
Aloe Vera Juice may be taken to sooth the system
Acidophilus helps restores normal friendly bacteria levels to the intestines.
Essential Fatty Acids may help protect the intestinal tract
Multivitamin & MultiMineral Complex supports proper nutrition
Vitamin B complex may help prevent anemia caused by parasites
Bromelain may help to destroy tapeworms
Witch Hazel may be used to reduce anal itching
Monastery of Herbs, herbal combinations that are very effective against parasite
infestation.
http://www.herbalremedies.com/cenfordiscon.html
Other herbals which are helpful in the elimination of parasites and detoxifying the body are:
elecampane root
licorice root
pink root
sage
fennel
tansy
cranberry powder
garlic
Irish moss
peppermint leaves
goldenseal
cloves
oil of oregano
alfalfa leaves
anise leaves
buckthorn bark
wormwood
thyme
male fern
Homeopathic remedies:
for liver flukes
for hookworm/roundworm
for pinworm
for tapeworm
for roundworm
Chelidonium
Chenopodium
Cina
Felix mas
Santonium
Recolonization of the Intestinal Tract
Reintroduction of friendly bacteria into the gastrointestinal tract following eradication of parasites
helps detoxify noxious substances, maintain proper pH and is a natural antibiotic, protecting
against future infection. The use of an excellent-quality probiotic such as Pharmax’s HLC line is
highly recommended.
Avoiding re-infection by eliminating risk factors is perhaps the culmination of a
learned lesson (see appendix 5). Once infected and then cleansed of parasitic hitchhikers, a
wise person will take note of how the infected was initially contracted and take precautions to
prevent additional infestations.
Appendix 1
http://www.biosci.ohio-state.edu/~parasite/lifecycles/giardia_lifecycle.html
Appendix 2
Important Supplements
Due to the vast number of illnesses implicating parasites as the cause, a regular natural
digestive detoxification program including an anti-parasite formula and colon cleanser to
promote proper elimination has been recommended by various naturopaths.
•
•
•
•
•
•
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•
•
•
•
Black Walnut Extract is regularly used for destroying most types of intestinal
worms. Various formulated products are available. You may experience diarrhea
while using products with Black walnut as the body flushes the intestines.
Grapefruit Seed Extract is also effective in destroying parasites and may be
taken internally and used to wash raw fruits and vegetables before eating.
Cayenne, garlic, and turmeric support proper immune system function and help
destroy some worms.
Aloe Vera Juice may be taken to sooth the system
Acidophilus helps restores normal friendly bacteria levels to the intestines.
Essential Fatty Acids may help protect the intestinal tract
Multivitamin & MultiMineral Complex supports proper nutrition
Vitamin B complex may help prevent anemia caused by parasites
Bromelain may help to destroy tapeworms
Witch Hazel may be used to reduce anal itching
Monastery of Herbs, herbal combinations that are very effective against parasite
infestation
http://www.herbalremedies.com/cenfordiscon.html
Appendix 3
Intestinal Parasites Screening
Rate the symptoms listed below using the symptom scale:
0 = never 1 = seldom 2 = occasionally 3 = frequently
4 = infrequently with severe symptoms 5 = almost always
contact with animals
anal itch, fissures, rashes
family members infected
eating meats cooked rare
constipation
food allergies
hives
chronic fungal infections
eating sugary/starchy junk foods
contact with grass, clay
skin problems
chronic fatigue
eating processed meats, ham, etc.
bloating, flatulence
diarrhea
have had parasites before
abdominal cramps, pain
Appendix 4
Specific Recommendations for Pregnant Women
A pregnant woman (or one who contemplates pregnancy) can minimize exposure to
Toxoplasma by taking the following measures:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Exclude rare or undercooked meat and non-pasteurized dairy products from the
diet.
Test household cats for antibodies to Toxoplasma. Assuming that a cat is
healthy, a positive antibody test indicates that the animal is most probably
immune and not excreting oocysts and thus would be an unlikely source of
infection. A healthy antibody-negative cat is most probably susceptible to
infection and would shed oocysts for one to two weeks after exposure to
Toxoplasma. If possible, the cat should be tested before the woman becomes
pregnant.
Have herself tested for antibodies, preferably before becoming pregnant. A
positive test would indicate past infection that will not be transmitted to the fetus.
The presence of antibodies also lessens the likelihood that congenital
transmission would occur should she be exposed again to the parasite during
pregnancy. An antibody-negative woman would thus be at greater risk of
transmitting Toxoplasma to the fetus should she become infected during
pregnancy.
Protect cats from infection (or re-infection) by preventing access to birds,
rodents, uncooked meat, and non-pasteurized dairy products.
Avoid handling litter boxes. Even if a cat is antibody-positive and hence most
likely immune, there exists a potential for reshedding of oocysts (although in
much smaller numbers than during the initial infection). For safety, litter boxes
should be changed daily or every other day by another person to eliminate any
potential for accidental infection.
Avoid handling free-roaming cats, because the fur or paws could be
contaminated with oocysts, which might be transmitted by hand-to-mouth
contact. Any cat allowed indoors should be kept off the bed, pillows, blankets, or
other furnishings the woman uses.
Avoid handling any cat showing signs of illness.
Wear rubber gloves if working with garden soil. Uncooked vegetables, whether
grown in a home garden or supplied commercially, should be washed thoroughly
before ingestion, in case they have been contaminated by cat feces.
Make a habit of vigorously and thoroughly washing hands with soap and water
after contact with soil, cats, non-pasteurized dairy products, or uncooked meat or
vegetables.
http://web.vet.cornell.edu/Public/FHC/toxo.html
Appendix 5
Parasite Risk Questionnaire
Travel
Have you ever been to Mexico, Africa, Israel, China, Russia, Asia, Europe, or Central
or South America?
Have your traveled to Hawaii, the Caribbean, the Bahamas, or other tropical
islands?
Do you frequently swim in freshwater lakes, streams, or ponds while abroad?
Did you serve overseas while in the military?
Were you a prisoner of war in World War II, Korea, or Vietnam?
Have you had intestinal problems, unexplained fever, night sweats, or an elevated
white blood count during or since traveling abroad?
Water
Is your water supply from a mountainous area?
Do you drink from untested well water?
Have you ever drunk water from lakes, streams, or rivers on hiking or camping trips
without first boiling or filtering it?
Do you use plain tap water to clean you contact lenses>
Do you use regular tap water that is unfiltered for colonics or enemas?
Can you trace the onset of symptoms (intermittent constipation and diarrhea, night
sweats, muscle aches and pains, unexplained eye ulcers) to any of the above?
Food
Do you regularly eat unpeeled raw fruits or raw vegetables in salads?
Do you frequently eat at sushi bars or salad bars; in delicatessens, vegetarian,
Mexican, fish, Indian, Armenian, Greek, Pakistani, Ethiopian, Filipino, Korean, Japanese,
Chinese, or Thai restaurants; fast food restaurants; or steak houses?
Do you use a microwave over for cooking (as opposed to reheating) pork, fish, or
beef?
Do you prefer fish or meat that is undercooked, i.e. rare or medium rare?
Do you frequently eat hot dogs made from pork?
Do you eat smoked or pickled foods, e.g. sausage, lox, herring?
Do you enjoy raw fishes like sushi and sashimi, Latin American ceviche, or Dutch
green herring?
Do you enjoy raw meat dishes like Italian carpaccio, steak tar tare, or Middle Eastern
kibbe?
At home, do you use the same cutting board for chicken, fish, and meat as you do
for vegetables?
Do you prepare sushi or sashimi dishes at home?
Can you trace the onset of symptoms (weight loss, anemia, bloating, distended
belly) to any of the above?
Pets
Have you recently gotten a puppy?
Have you lived with, do you currently live with, or do you frequently handle pets?
Do you forget to wash your hands after petting or cleaning up after you animals,
and before eating?
Does you pet sleep with you in your bed?
Do your pets eat from your plates?
Do you clean your cat’s litter box?
Do you keep your pets in your yard where children play?
Can you trace the onset of your symptoms (abdominal pain, high white blood
count, distended belly in children, unexplained fever) to any of the above?
Workplace
Do you work in a hospital?
Do you work in a pet shop, zoo, experimental laboratory, or veterinary clinic?
Do you work with or around animals?
Parasite Risk Questionnaire
Do you work in a day care center?
Do you garden or work in a yard to which cats and dogs have access?
Do work in sanitation?
Can you trace the onset of symptoms (gastrointestinal disorders) to any of the
above?
Sexual Practices
Do you engage in oral sex?
Do you practice anal intercourse without the use of a condom?
Have you had sexual relations with a foreign-born individual?
Can you trace the onset of symptoms (persistent reproductive organ problems) to
any of the above?
Symptoms (symptoms do have to be persistent)
Do you have a bluish cast around your lips?
Is your abdomen distended no matter what you eat?
Are there dark circles around or under your eyes?
Do you have a history of allergy?
Do you suffer from intermittent diarrhea and constipation, intermittent loose and
hard stools, or chronic constipation?
Do you have persistent acne, anorexia, anemia, open ileocecal valve, skim
eruptions, PMS, bad breath, itching, pale skin, chronic fatigue, food intolerances, sinus
congestion, difficulty breathing, edema, bloody stools, ringing in the ears, anal itching,
puffy eyes, palpitations, vague abdominal discomfort, or vertigo?
Do you grind your teeth?
Are you experiencing weight loss or weight gain, loss of appetite, insomnia,
depression, moodiness, sugar craving, lethargy, or disorientation?
Greater than 40 items checked = High risk for parasite infection
Parasite Risk Questionnaire
Greater than 30 items checked = Moderate risk for parasite infection
Greater than 20 items checked = Some risk for parasite infection
No overt symptoms may still mean “dormant” parasite infection.
Parasite Risk Questionnaire
Children
Does your child have dark circles under his eyes?
Is your child hyperactive?
Has you child been diagnosed with “failure to thrive”?
Does your child grind or clench his teeth at night?
Does your child constantly pick his nose or scratch his behind?
Does your child have the habit of eating dirt?
Does your child wet the bed?
Is your child restless at night?
Does your child cry often for no reason?
Does your child tear his hair out?
Does your child have a limp that orthopedic treatment has not helped?
Does your child have a brassy, staccato-type cough?
Does your child have convulsions or an abnormal electroencephalogram (EEG)?
Does your child have recurring headaches?
Is your child unusually sensitive to light and prone to eyelid twitching, blinking
frequently, or squinting?
Does your child have unusual tendencies to bleed in the gums, the rectum, or the
nose?
Infants
Does your baby have severe intermittent colic?
Does your baby persistently band his head against his crib?
Is your baby a chronic crier?
Does your baby show a blotchy rash around the perianal area?
Appendix 6
Alkaline-Forming Foods
(based on consumption of 1 ounce)
figs
30.0
pineapple
molasses
18.0
coconut
olives (green or ripe)
16.0
pomegranate
lima beans
12.0
beans, baked
soybeans
12.0
nectarines
apricots (dried)
9.5
cabbage
turnip of beet greens
8.0
cherries
spinach
8.0
sauerkraut
dandelion greens
8.0
grapefruit
mustard greens
8.0
tomatoes
raisins
7.0
radish
kale
7.0
currents (dried)
Swiss chard
5.0
cauliflower
almond
3.6
lemon
parsnips
3.6
string beans
carrot
3.5
peaches
beets
3.5
mushrooms
dates
3.0
squash
celery
2.5
watermelon
rutabaga
2.5
grapes
endive
2.0
buttermilk
cantaloupe
2.0
whole milk
lettuce
2.2
millet
parsley
2.2
Brazil nuts
watercress
2.0
buckwheat
apricots (fresh)
2.0
onions
potatoes (sweet, white) 2.0
green peas
2.0
2.0
2.0
2.0
1.8
1.8
1.8
1.7
1.7
1.7
1.7
1.7
1.5
1.6
1.6
1.5
1.2
1.0
1.0
1.0
0.7
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.5
0.4
0.3
Acid-Forming Foods
(based on consumption of 1 ounce)
egg yolk
7.5
bacon
herring
5.5
lamb
oysters
4.5
duck
crab
4.5
whole egg
lobster
4.0
spaghetti
oatmeal
3.6
organ meats
veal
3.5
rice
sardines
3.4
bread (wheat or rye)
perch
3.3
haddock
salmon
3.3
crackers
swordfish
3.3
bread (white)
most other fish
3.3
most nuts
most meats & fowl
3.2
egg whites
liver
3.0
dry corn
chicken
3.0
cornmeal
pork
3.0
Zwieback
ham (smoked)
3.0
American cheese
macaroni
3.0
natural cheese
most grains
3.0
lentils
3.0
3.0
3.0
3.0
3.0
3.0
2.8
2.5
2.5
2.3
2.2
2.0
1.7
1.6
1.6
1.6
1.6
1.5
1.5
Parasite Risk Questionnaire
Parasite Risk Questionnaire