Parasite Cleanses: Hype or Helpful?

There has been a recent uptick in social media messaging that promotes the benefits of parasite cleanses. Although these dietary regimens and supplements may not cause direct harm, it’s unlikely they offer any real benefits. And, for some people, they can have dangerous side effects.

“A parasitic infection can be a serious medical condition,” says Susan Ratay, DO, family medicine specialist at University Hospitals. “As with any health disorder, self-diagnosis and treatment is not advisable. If you have symptoms of a parasite infection, you should always be evaluated by a medical professional so the appropriate treatment can be prescribed.”

What Are Parasites?

Parasites are organisms that rely on a host organism for survival. They live in or on the host, taking from them the nutrients they need to grow and reproduce. “Not all parasites are harmful, however,” says Dr. Ratay. “A healthy human body contains billions of good parasites like bacteria that are essential for functions like digestion and immune system response. But others can spread diseases, some of which can be fatal.”

Examples of harmful parasites that can infect humans and spread disease include:

• Ticks
• Fleas
• Lice
• Hookworms
• Plasmodium malariae (the parasite that causes malaria)

Parasitic infections are most commonly contracted through insect bites, drinking contaminated water or eating undercooked or contaminated meat. Once infected, it is possible to pass the infection to others through unprotected sex or other intimate contact or by touching contaminated surfaces.

Symptoms of a Parasite Infection

Signs and symptoms of a parasite infection can vary widely depending on the type of parasite involved. And sometimes, there are no symptoms. It’s important to note that even asymptomatic people can pass the infection to others.

Possible symptoms include:

• Skin rash, bumps or itchiness
• Weight loss and/or increased appetite
• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea and vomiting
• Fever
• Weakness and fatigue

These symptoms can also indicate many other conditions so an accurate diagnosis is essential before treatment begins. If experiencing any of these symptoms, you should always seek medical evaluation.

Diagnosing a Parasitic Infection

To diagnose a parasite infection, your doctor will first take a complete medical and lifestyle history. You will likely be asked about your travel history as many parasitic infections are more common in foreign countries.

“Based on the medical history and physical exam, additional diagnostic tests may be ordered to determine if a parasite infection is present and, if so, what type of parasite is involved,” says Dr. Ratay.

Diagnostic tests may include one of more of the following:

• Fecal exam to look for parasites or parasite eggs in the stool
• Endoscopic exam of the intestines
• Colonoscopy
• Blood tests
• Imaging exams to detect parasite-related lesions in the organs

Based on the results of the diagnostic tests, an appropriate treatment plan will be developed. The primary treatments will be medications to kill the specific parasite identified and manage symptoms. Increased hydration is also recommended, especially If diarrhea is a symptom.

Stay Away From Home Remedies

Parasite cleanses or detoxes usually consist of a dietary supplement containing natural herbs and oils that, according to the manufacturers, have anti-parasite properties. The supplements are often paired with a recommended diet plan that centers around eating natural, whole foods and avoiding greasy and highly processed foods.

Even though eating a healthier diet will likely benefit your health, there is no evidence to suggest that any specific diet plan will rid the body of parasites. And the supplements have not been evaluated or approved by the FDA for their intended purpose – and may contain ingredients that can interact with other medications and cause more harm than good.

“The parasite cleansing systems being promoted on the internet and social media are not medically necessary, can cause alarming side effects and have not been proven to kill parasites,” says Dr. Ratay. “If you have symptoms of a parasite infection, my advice is to seek professional medical help and not waste your money on home remedies.”

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University Hospitals has a vast network of primary care providers at convenient locations across the region. Our experts have the knowledge and experience to diagnose and treat a wide range of conditions, including parasite infections.