Unhealthy eating habits and a lack of hygiene can lead to the development of worms and parasites in the intestines. While there are powerful allopathic medications for intestinal worms, you can also eliminate them naturally by consuming certain foods. Naturally obtained foods can sometimes work wonders when medications fail. Here, we have listed foods that are effective against worms and parasites present in the human body.
What are intestinal worms?
Intestinal worms are parasites that live in the digestive tract of living beings, including humans. They can enter the human body through contaminated food and water. Additionally, people can come into contact with parasite eggs through soil or transmission via the nose. Only four types of intestinal worms—pinworms, tapeworms, roundworms, and whipworms—are dangerous to humans among the many that can infect.
What causes intestinal worms?
You can have intestinal worms for several reasons, such as:
- Consuming undercooked meat, such as beef, pork, or chicken.
- Consuming contaminated soil or water.
- Visiting places with inadequate sanitary and hygiene conditions and coming into contact with contaminated feces.
Once contaminated substances are consumed, the parasite enters the stomach and uses it as a breeding ground to grow and multiply.
Symptoms of intestinal worms
Symptoms of intestinal worms appear when the worms multiply and grow large. Common symptoms that can help you differentiate whether you have intestinal worms or not include:
- Abdominal pain
- Diarrhea
- Difficulty gaining weight
- Unintentional weight loss
- Abdominal tenderness
- Constant fatigue and restlessness
- Bloating
Foods to Naturally Get Rid of Intestinal Worms (Foods that Kill Parasites in Humans)
Intestinal worms can be eliminated naturally by consuming certain foods without the need for medication. Common foods that can help you get rid of intestinal worms include:
1. Cloves
Cloves eradicate parasitic eggs, larvae, and microscopic parasites. They also help destroy bacteria and parasites that cause tuberculosis and malaria.
2. Coconut Water
It is particularly effective against parasites that cause diarrhea. Regular consumption of coconut water has several health benefits.
3. Honey
It has antimicrobial properties and can help fight against intestinal worms. Additionally, it contains antioxidants that boost immunity.
4. Garlic
Garlic has a unique ability to kill parasites such as nematodes. Since our body absorbs garlic best in the morning, it is said to be most effective when consumed raw first thing in the morning.
5. Ginger
It helps eliminate harmful bacteria and parasites and also improves digestion by increasing stomach acid production.
6. Edible Seeds
Pumpkin, papaya, and sunflower seeds are well-known edible seeds that can naturally kill worms.
7. Fermented Foods
These are extremely rich in probiotics. They can prevent the reproduction of intestinal worms.
8. Onion
This has been the most commonly used treatment for eradicating worms or parasitic infections. The abundance of sulfur compounds in onions prevents worms from proliferating. For optimal effects, it is recommended to consume a combination of onion and garlic in the morning.
9. Berries
These are rich in polyphenols, a certain class of antioxidants. Additionally, they contain ellagitannins, a substance that inhibits the growth and spread of the intestinal parasite Giardia. Including blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries in your diet can help maintain intestinal health.
10. Carrots
Carrots are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, such as beta-carotene and vitamin A. Studies have also shown that a low level of these vitamins can encourage worms to reproduce more quickly. Consuming carrots is a preventive measure.
