What do you think of when you hear the word “parasites?” A lot of people still think of third world countries and giant worms. However, parasites can enter your body in a number of ways from anywhere in the world. And they aren’t always visible — many are microscopic.
According to the CDC and many leading experts, millions of Americans (yes… millions!) develop parasitic infections. And many are misdiagnosed or not diagnosed at all.
I was one of those million Americans infected by parasites. Liver flukes to be exact. When are dealing with a parasite infection, it is down right WAR! Adding Lyme and Mold to the mix made it more challenging for me to recover but I am here to say that it CAN be done.
Parasite infections have similar symptoms to Lyme. Anything from insomnia and bruxism, to anemia, skin conditions, and even serious health problems like seizures, blindness, pregnancy complications, and heart failure.
Don’t let this scare you. It is entirely possible to detect, remove and prevent parasite infections — we’ll get to that later in this article.
How Parasites Assist Lyme Disease
Just like with susceptibility to mold and heavy metal poisoning, a compromised immune system from a Lyme infection makes the body more easily infected by parasites.
The body is filled with bacteria. Bacteria is GOOD and necessary for the body to function properly! But when it is thrown out of balance by Lyme or chronic inflammation, our bodies become the perfect breeding ground for parasites.
Parasites make it extremely difficult for the body to heal from Lyme. There have even been studies that show that Lyme can LIVE inside certain parasites! This is why it’s necessary to remove a parasite infection before Lyme recovery can truly begin. If you don’t remove the parasites, Lyme can remain in your body by hiding in them.
Tips for Detecting and Removing Parasites
Parasites are usually detected from blood work or analyzation of a stool sample. I like to recommend the GIMap test because it uses QPCR testing. This simply means the test looks for DNA of parasites so it is more sensitive and reliable. Here is where I send all my clients to order it. HOWEVER, you can’t order this test without the recommendation of a practitioner. So if you are having unexplained symptoms and suspect you may have parasites, set up an appointment with me to chat about it.
Most parasite removal protocols involve adding in certain supplements and foods into your diet while removing others. Parasites eat the same foods you do! Use that power to cut it of from what it thrives on.
Foods & Supplements that Aid Parasite Removal
- Raw garlic (mince it first!)
- Sprouted pumpkin seeds
- Cinnamon
- Coconut oil
- Apple cider vinegar
- Mimosa pudica – this causes parasites to remove themselves from the intestinal wall so they can then be flushed out of the body (be sure to remedy any constipation before you use it so it can be effective!) Order here.
Foods to Remove from Your Diet
- Sugar – Sugar feeds parasites and inhibits the immune system
- Grains and processed foods – grains break down into sugar and processed foods contain a lot of sugar
- Pork – Pigs process food differently than our bodies, so many times toxins are leftover in pork meat
Prevent Parasite Infection
- Wash produce before consuming.
- Always wash your hands after using the bathroom.
- Avoid exposure to cat litter and feces.
- Use only bottled water when traveling.
- Use condoms during sex to prevent the spread of STDS.
- Be sure to cook foods to recommended temperatures.
Also note that there are many uncomfortable symptoms associated with removing parasites. You’ll feel worse before you feel better! You may experience symptoms similar to a common cold, bruising, digestive issues, skin sores, and more. Give your body time to heal. Get plenty of rest, hydrate, fuel with whole foods (lots of veggies and fruits), keep your body moving with gentle exercise like walking or yoga, treat yourself to epsom salt baths, and use herbs to alleviate some of the bothersome symptoms.
Lastly and importantly, please seek a professional’s help when trying to determine if you have a parasite infection. Especially if you are also infected with Lyme. As both a health practitioner and someone who has personally battled both infections, I would be honored to guide you through a healing protocol designed for your unique body and situation.