Parasites in Human Bodies

Parasites are living organisms that live inside and thrive on other living organisms, and there are a number of them that can live inside us undetected for years. Parasites in human bodies often cause harm by consuming essential nutrients, destroying our cells and producing toxic waste that result in any number of health problems. The scary thing is that these organisms are found just about everywhere around us, thus making it very easy for us to fall prey.

The worst cases of parasitic infection are recorded in underdeveloped countries where it kills hundreds of thousands of people every year. And although infections of this type are not as widespread in the United States, the numbers have been rising in recent years. An increasingly unhealthy lifestyle contributes much to the spread of parasites in human bodies. Living with cats and dogs as well as constantly eating out may also lead to parasite infections. Animals are common carriers while unhygienic food handling is the usual culprit in restaurants.

There are two types of human parasites: the relatively large worms and the microscopic protozoa. Worms are usually acquired through the ingestion of contaminated food whereas protozoa are spread via a number of ways including air, water, insects and animals. About half of the population is infected with parasites, with only an estimated 25% manifesting symptoms. This makes it more difficult to diagnose such infections.

The tiny protozoa are the types of parasites that pose the greatest health risks primarily because of their ability to travel from our intestines to our bloodstream and other vital organs. Once there, they can cause considerable damage and be very infectious. In fact, these types of parasites in human bodies have been linked to such serious medical conditions as asthma, diabetes, multiple sclerosis and cancer.

Making a few dietary changes may help prevent or treat parasitic infections. Increasing your fiber intake, for one, helps eliminate worms and cleanse your intestinal tract. Good nutrition also boosts your immune system and improves its capacity to fight off these parasites. Limit your intake of sugar, dairy products and simple carbohydrates because these are substances that parasites normally thrive on. Of course, you should never forget to take your daily dose of multivitamins.