A parasite is an organism that lives on, or in, a host organism and gets its food from, or at, the expense of its host. But are they as common as TikTok and other social media realms would have us believe?
Most people with gut parasites acquire them when travelling to countries with more basic hygiene, often through eating and drinking contaminated food or water. Though some can be caught by walking barefoot, through undercooked fish or meat, veggies we may not have washed properly, pets …
Although parasitic infections can be associated with many notable and detrimental symptoms, they can also infect the host without any symptoms. This is often the case where an individual has a relatively robust digestive tract, strong gut microbiome and healthy immune system.
Those who are more likely to be negatively affected by parasites may have underlying chronic conditions, leaving them more susceptible and their immune system more challenged by the infection. Some may be living asymptomatically with parasite and only develop symptoms years later, when another aspect of their health declines.
Fortunately, our immune systems have naturally evolved to arm us against a range of pathogens, including parasites. Sometimes the immune system alone is able to clear the parasitic infection. In these instances, both innate and adaptive immune responses selectively recognise pathogens within the host, resulting in the swift eradication of these nasties. Oftentimes, this would happen without us recognising that we have even been infected.
Much of the content relating to parasites on social media can create anxiousness and fear that is often unreasonable and unnecessary. This heightened concern can lead consumers to purchase products or services claiming to 'treat' or 'cure' their parasitic symptoms - often without a clear diagnosis of infection.
It likely that much of what we see in many of these viral videos circulating online are actually mucus strands or undigested organic matter - not parasites. Not all parasitic pathogens are visible to the naked eye. For this reason, we recommend confirming or denying any inklings of infection by having your stool tested through a reputable laboratory. These accredited laboratories conduct microscopy and molecular tests on stool samples to determine whether there is an infection or not.
If parasite is confirmed, you can then begin to work out how to treat and overcome the infection, along with any associated symptoms.
The reality is that we are constantly being exposed to a range of opportunistic pathogens in our day-to-day lives - and are therefore all susceptible to a degree.
We can feel empowered to do our best when we are armed with accurate knowledge surrounding our health. A place of true understanding allows us to better support our bodies back to health when un-well, and to implement routines that are conducive to supporting a healthy microbiome and immune system in order to maintain well-being.
Evidence based testing can reveal the answers to our concerns and evidence based therapies help us return to good health.
Let us guide you on your return to wellness.
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