Parasites and Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Recent medical evidence indicates that intestinal parasites may be a contributing factor of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Scientific research confirms that over 100 different types of parasites and worms can reside within the human body. Some are microscopic in size, while others can grow up to 35 feet in length while residing within the intestine.

Now, before you claim that you could never have parasites, think again. Parasites can be found everywhere in our environment. They are in the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat. It is estimated that between 80 and 95 percent of Americans have some type of parasite living inside their body.

Pet owners are more likely to contract parasites than those who do not own pets. Dogs, cats, reptiles and rodents are host to many parasites that humans can contract. If you keep your pets indoors, your risk for parasite infection becomes even higher. Animals can spread over 200 diseases to humans through the transmission of parasites. If you are a pet owner, experts recommend adding fresh garlic and nutritional yeast to pet food in order to control parasite infestation.

A recent medical study states, "American men live shorter lives of up to 4 years because of parasites." Another study claims the average American male carries up to two pounds of parasites inside his body.

Parasites can affect the intestine, liver, circulatory system, brain, skin and other organs. Common parasites include giardia, cryptosporidium, candida, taenia (tapeworms), ascaris (roundworms), and trichuris (hookworms).

Symptoms of parasitic infections include abdominal cramps, colitis, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, chronic fatigue, allergies, anemia, and general malaise. These are all symptoms that can easily be misdiagnosed as Irritable Bowel Syndrome.