Definition:
Worms are parasites that live in the gastrointestinal tract. The most common of these
are roundworms, pinworms, hookworms, and tapeworms. Roundworms are contagious intestinal
parasites; they can be seen by the naked eye. Pinworms are white, threadlike worms, about
a 1/3-inch long. Tapeworms vary in length from an inch up to and sometimes exceeding
thirty feet in length. Tapeworms can survive for up to 25 years. All of these worms cause
significant and sometime disabling symptoms. Worms can be contracted through a variety of
means; improper disposal of human or animal waste, walking barefoot on contaminated soil,
and ingestion of eggs or worm larvae from uncooked or undercooked meat. In a few cases
worms can be picked up from animals. Parasites are more common than most people suppose,
and they can be the cause of many conditions including colon problems. They are more
common in children. They are also common in people with AIDS, chronic fatigue syndrome,
candidiasis, and chronic unexplained illnesses. Unfortunately, most physicians do not
check for worm infestation. Request a stool exam for parasites.
Symptoms:
Worm infestation results in poor absorption of essential nutrients and sometimes loss
of blood from the gastrointestinal tract. Various deficiency-related disorders may result.
Other more noticeable symptoms are abdominal pain, loss of appetite, diarrhea, anemia,
rectal itching, muscle weakness and muscle pain.
Holistic Treatment Plan:
Treatment consists of increasing dietary fiber, eliminating refined
carbohydrates including sugar, cooking meat more carefully, avoiding
raw foods like salad, maintaining meticulous personal hygiene, and
taking the proper supplementation.
References:
Heinerman, J., Herbal Research Manuel for Professional Therapeutics, Root of
Life, Inc., 1982; Galland, L, M. D., Intestinal Protozoan Infection Is a Common
Unsuspected Cause of Chronic Illness, Journal of Advancement in Medicine, Vol. 2, No.
4 Winter, 1989.
Disclaimer:
All information given here is for educational purposes only. For a proper diagnosis and
treatment plan you must consult your health care practitioner.
