It’s been all over social media lately – posts and videos convincing you that parasites are the cause of everything from acne to constipation to depression. I know it’s not the most appetizing subject and my first reaction was to dismiss it entirely. But the questions from customers kept coming:
- “Should I do a parasite cleanse?”
- “I heard all salmon have worms – should I stop eating him?”
- “Could parasites be the root of my gut problems?”
Let’s get the facts straight, using facts (instead of trying to scare you into buying $500 worth of supplements).
What are parasites?
Let’s clarify what a parasite is. A parasite is an organism that lives on or inside a host (like you), feeding off that host to survive. They can be external (such as lice or ticks) or internal, which we are mainly focusing on today (especially those that live in the gut).
There are two main types:
- Protozoa: Single-celled organisms that can multiply in your body.
- Helminths: Multicellular organisms (such as worms) that can reproduce in your body but do not multiply.
Yes, we’re talking about things like pinworms, tapeworms, and other less cute creatures.
Where and how do you get parasites?
Through contaminated food or water. This includes:
- Uncooked meat or fish
- Unwashed products
- Dirty nails
- Handling pets or animals that go outdoors
- Poor hand hygiene (especially when others are preparing your food)
Basically, if feces are involved there is a risk. Most people are exposed to parasites at some point, and many of us live in harmony with them, just as we do with the trillions of bacteria in our microbiome.
Are parasites causing acne, bloating or mood swings?
It’s tempting to associate mysterious symptoms with parasites, especially when the influences claim to be at the root of everything from skin problems to depression. But let’s get one thing straight:
Most people with intestinal or skin symptoms do not have a parasite problem.
There are so many other things we would explore first:
- Vitamin or mineral deficiency
- Reducing stress
- Sleep hygiene
- A possible elimination diet
Parasites are rarely the first (or even tenth) thing on the list of possible causes.
The truth about pest control
The test exists, but it is not very reliable. Parasites often die or decompose before stool samples can be properly tested. Unless there are visible signs (like an actual worm), many tests will be negative even if something is going on. Well, it’s kind of like the original gas lighters.
A word about cleaning up the TikTok vermin
Let’s talk about the “clean” trend. Most of them involve a wellness influencer selling dozens of expensive supplements – cloves, wormwood, anise, garlic, ginger, turmeric. Although these herbs are not necessarily harmful and may even offer some immune or gut support, there is no strong evidence that kill pests.
And if really have a pest? You will need an antiparasitic medicine from a real doctor. Not a $300 stack of supplements from Becky with an affiliate code.
Real Talk: Our personal experiences
Megan had two encounters with parasites: one after swimming in natural water in Hawaii and another after adopting a puppy. The symptoms were obvious. Rapid weight loss, strange stools and digestive discomfort. Despite the negative tests, the signs were clear and eventually the symptoms resolved without medication.
These experiences are rare and most people never have them. But if you have gut symptoms and nothing else, see a registered dietitian.
What about salmon?
You may have seen the disturbing viral video of the white worm found in the Costco salmon package. Yes, salmon boxthey have worms. Especially wild-caught salmon, since they live in natural waters with natural parasites. But the good news is: freezing kills the pests.
Most fish (including sushi salmon and grocery store salmon) are frozen immediately before sale. Even if a worm it was present, it is dead, harmless and gross, but not dangerous.
Fun fact: farmed fish are less likely to have parasites because their environment is more controlled, but I would choose wild salmon for the nutritional benefits.
So… Should you be worried?
Here is our professional opinion: No, you probably don’t need a parasite cleanse. Here’s what you need to do:
- Wash your products
- Cook and handle your meat and fish properly
- Wash your hands
- Let your kids play outside (yes, even in the dirt)
Living in a bubble isn’t healthy, but neither is chasing every internet trend.
TLDR: Parasites exist, but they’re not the ever-present hidden enemy some wellness gurus make them out to be.
About the author: Megan Ware, RDN, LD, is a registered dietitian nutritionist in Orlando, Florida. He has a private practice, Nutrition Awareness, where he teaches other entrepreneurs and high achievers how to maximize their productivity with nutrition. She is the author of the book The Optimized Life: A Nutrition Guide for Entrepreneurs and its co-host Nutrition Information Podcast.
If you want to improve your health, lose weight or increase your energy, schedule your initial consultation here.
