By Sofia Potente
Are parasites the mystery cause of your gut symptoms?
Did you know 10-20% of people have a gut parasite – but many aren’t aware they have one?
The mere thought of parasites in our body makes our skin crawl, but it’s so important to know the signs.
Here are 7 common signs of gut parasites, and what to do about it!
- Digestive issues such as unexplained constipation, diarrhea or bloating/gas at night time or anal itching.
- Skin issues such as rosacea or acne
- Unexplained fatigue
- Unhealthy persistent food cravings
- Teeth grinding
- Restless sleep
- Joint pain
Parasites are relatively easily spread – common sources are unwashed foods, undercooked meats, pets, overseas travel, unwashed hands, salad bars, sandpits and contaminated water.
The most common parasites are Giardia, Dientamoeba fragilis, Blastocystis hominis and Cryptosporidium.
Left untreated, gut parasites can lead to a worsening of symptoms, as well as nutrient deficiencies, IBS and IBD.
So what do you do if you suspect a parasite? Starting with a stool microbiome test is the best way to know exactly what is going on with your gut. It will confirm whether you have parasites – and which type.
The test will also identify the state of your digestion so that you can quit playing guesswork – you’ll know if you have bacterial overgrowth, candida, inflammation, leaky gut, pancreatic enzymes and more.
What if the test confirms you have parasites? An integrative 4-step protocol is used to remove the parasite and related wastes/toxins, reinoculate the gut with beneficial bacteria, and soothe, repair and restore the intestinal lining.
This involves herbs and plant-based supplements including sweet wormwood, black walnut hulls, grapeseed extract, olive leaf, berberine and oregano.
Anti-parasitic foods can also be incorporated in the diet, such as pumpkin seeds, garlic, coconut oil, papaya seeds and pineapple core.
Foods that feed parasites like sugar, refined carbs and processed foods are also eliminated during this time.
Originally published here.
With over 16 years experience in health education and research, Sofia is a Gut Health Coach, Certified Integrative Health Practitioner and Essential Oil Specialist. Sofia holds postgraduate qualifications in public health (MPH). As a finalist in the Local Business Awards, Sofia’s work has been published in peer reviewed health journals, The Natural Parent Magazine and Thrive Global.
Gut health is her life passion! After struggling with her own son’s severe reflux and digestive problems, Sofia healed and transformed both her son’s and her own gut using a combination of diet, natural remedies and removing household chemicals. She now teaches this same holistic approach that brings together mindset, food and home in her Healthy Gut Reset program and 1:1 Gut Health Practitioner services.
As founder of The Natural Switch, Sofia has helped over 500 women kickstart a healthier, low tox lifestyle and take simple steps to love and nourish their gut, nurture their soul and detox their life. Visit her website and follow her on Facebook and Instagram for more information.
