By Andrew Gaeddert
Parasites are a growing problem in the developed countries due to an increase in air travel and water supplies infected by animal waste. Secondary factors are inadequate sterilization and poor hygiene practices at restaurants and daycare centers, and drinking untreated water while hiking or camping. Common symptoms are digestive complaints that do not clear up, headache, fatigue, muscle aches, joint pain, propensity toward food and environmental sensitivities and allergies. If your client has had a chronic digestive condition that has resisted treatment, and has traveled to Asia, South America, or Africa, it is quite likely that this individual has a parasitic condition. The same is true if he or she has consumed untreated water while camping or hiking. Unfortunately, many physicians in the U.S. are not aware of the rising incidence of parasite infections. Even as far back as 1976, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reported that one of every six people tested in the U.S. at random had one or more parasites.
One type of infection, giardiasis is so common in some areas that almost the entire indigenous population host this microorganism. Also known as “Montezuma’s Revenge” or “Delhi Belly,” giardiasis can cause violent cramping and diarrhea that continues despite the use of over the counter remedies. Giardia organisms can be found in mountain streams, and more alarming is the fact that they can infect city water systems, since Giardia is not killed by chlorination. In daycare centers Giardia and other parasites may be spread by direct contact with feces during diaper changing, as well as by children coming in contact with feces and then inserting their hands in their mouths, touching toys or drinking faucets, and engaging in other shared contact.
Immune-compromised persons are especially vulnerable to parasitic infections, including two in particular, toxoplasmosis which is transmitted by cats, and cryptosporidiosis which is acquired through drinking water.
Parasites can also be passed through sexual contact. Improper cooking and preparation of foods is another possible source of parasitic transmission. For example, sushi should always be eaten at a reputable restaurant where the chefs practice proper food preparation and sanitary habits, such as frequent hand washing.
Parasites can wreak havoc in the body. Some infections can be fatal if untreated. Parasites can destroy cells and produce toxic substances. They irritate the body’s tissues, causing inflammatory reactions. Untreated infections result in the body’s immune system producing too many specialized white cells, called eosinophils. Eosinophils can cause tissue damage as they multiply to wipe out the parasites, resulting in pain and inflammation. Also, the immune system becomes exhausted in its intense effort to battle the parasitic infection.
Flagyl (metronidazole) is the most common drug used in the U.S. to treat parasites, but it has many side effects. Also, many parasites are Flagyl resistant.
PREVENTING PARASITES
Clients should be made aware of the following tips concerning parasite prevention:
- Filter water. This is especially necessary for the immune-compromised and international travelers. Bottled water may not be pure, or the bottles may not be properly sterilized. Take along a water sterilization kit (camping stores often provide information about which kits are appropriate for your needs)
- Be careful about eating out. Eat only properly cooked foods when the cleanliness standard of the restaurant is uncertain
- Vegetables and fruits should be peeled
- Use separate cutting surfaces for meats and vegetables. These areas should be pet-free
- Have household employees tested for parasites
- Have pets checked on a regular basis for parasites
- Keep pets away from food preparation areas
- Never kiss pets or allow them to sleep with the family
- Protect children from animal droppings
- Immune-compromised individuals should not handle cat litter. If this is not possible, surgical gloves and a face mask should be worn, while keeping the litter as far away from the body as possible. Wash hands thoroughly afterward
- Practice safe sex
- Proper food preparation is imperative in preventing parasite infections
- Chlorine food bath– Use 1/2 teaspoon of bleach to 1 gallon of water. Leafy vegetables, thin- skinned fruits, and all meats (separate baths for different meats) should be placed in the bath for 20 minutes. Then, place in clear water for 10 minutes. Thoroughly clean and dry all food treated this way. This procedure can be used by susceptible individuals, and those living in areas of known infestation
- Freezing– Freeze fish for 48 hours, beef and pork for 24 hours. This procedure will kill any larvae.
- Cooking– Make sure meat is thoroughly cooked (no pink showing). When eating out, request that meat be cooked well done. At home, cook meat at a minimum of 325°F, fish at 400°F. Beef, lamb, veal, and pork should be cooked to an internal temperature of 170°F, and fish to 140°F for at least 5 minutes
PROFESSIONAL TREATMENTS
The following Health Concerns formulas are beneficial for parasite infections:
- Aloe 22 (1 to 3 capsules TID) plus Artestatin (start at 1 capsule per day, increase to 6 per day over a 2 week period) can be taken before meals
- With constipation, increase Aloe 22, decrease Artestatin dosages
- With diarrhea, increase Artestatin, decrease Aloe 22 dosages
- Use Quiet Digestion (2 capsules TID or as needed) for cramping, intestinal gas, and poor digestion
- After 3 months of Artestatin and Aloe 22, if parasites are still evident, consider Biocidin (use as directed). I recommend these products be taken consecutively, not at the same time
- As an adjunct, 1 to 3 cloves of raw chopped or pressed garlic (not heated) can be taken. Garlic is considered effective for amoebic dysentery and other parasite infections. Note that prepared garlic formulas may not be effective for parasites
In the next issue of Professional Health Concerns, we will present case histories involving parasite infections, and the protocols used to treat these individuals.
Andrew Gaeddert is author of the new book, Healing Digestive Disorders: Natural Treatments for Gastrointestinal Conditions.