Prevention of Intestinal Parasites

Intestinal parasites are harmful and can lead to severe digestive problems if not treated in a timely manner. While intestinal parasites may go unnoticed for long periods of time, the body will eventually display symptoms of severe abdominal cramps, vomiting, nausea and diarrhea. With a few changes to the diet, parasites can easily be prevented.

Foods to Add to Your Diet

• Many foods are known to eliminate intestinal parasites, and should be eaten as often as possible. Garlic is one of the best foods to eat, and is most effective when eaten fresh. Try to eat at least one clove of fresh garlic each day, whether it be in pasta, garlic bread, salad or any other food you enjoy.
  Papaya is another food that should be added to your diet on a daily basis when possible. The fruit and its seeds are both effective in the prevention of intestinal parasites. Eat at least one serving of papaya each day, either a fresh slice of the fruit, a six-ounce glass of papaya juice or a handful of papaya seeds.
  Carrots cure many types of intestinal parasites, and work great in the prevention process. Try to incorporate at least one serving of carrots each day, whether it be a few carrot sticks with your favorite veggie dip or a six-ounce glass of carrot juice.

Foods to Eliminate from Your Diet

• Parasites are most common in raw fish. Eliminate sushi from your diet, or at least eat it in extreme moderation, as it only takes one piece of sushi to contract an intestinal parasite.
  Unwashed vegetables are another contributing factor to intestinal parasites. The parasitic eggs harbor in the waste that is spread on fields as fertilizer, so be sure to wash all vegetables thoroughly before eating.
  Contaminated drinking water is another way for parasites to travel. Although drinking water from a fresh flowing stream may be tempting, it is best to drink purified or bottled water only.

Colon Cleansing

• Keeping the colon clear is another factor in the prevention of intestinal parasites. If you do not have daily bowel movements, increase your daily intake of fiber, which will speed up the digestive process, creating more bowel movements. Also ask your doctor how often you should cleanse your colon, depending on your medical conditions. Most times it is safe to cleanse the colon at least once per month, and your doctor can recommend which pills or natural remedies will best suit your body.