There is no significant scientific evidence that pumpkin seeds can help eliminate parasites. Neither the WHO nor the US National Health Service makes this recommendation. How many seeds you need to eat too, no one will say for sure. There is no verified data from medical organizations on this score. We will tell you how to get rid of parasites and whether it is worth eating pumpkin seeds.
How to know if you have parasites
At home you will not be able to understand if there are parasites. Often times these uninvited roommates are not shown in any way. They can only be seen in the bathroom after going to the bathroom or in vomit.
Many of the symptoms that parasites indicate can, in fact, be signs of many other diseases. For example, diarrhea, bloody stools, nausea, or vomiting may still be symptoms of gastrointestinal poisoning or illness.
And it happens the other way around. Symptoms that have nothing to do with digestion and bowel function may indicate that parasites are present in the body. For example, roundworm larvae can end up in the lungs. Then the person will be tormented by coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. It may look like you have bronchitis or pneumonia.
Only a doctor can make an accurate diagnosis after examination and examination. Therefore, it is best to see a therapist immediately.
If the doctor confirms his suspicions, he will recommend a stool test. Such a test may be prescribed if diarrhea, cramps, flatulence, and other unpleasant symptoms occur regularly in the intestines.
Less commonly, endoscopic examinations are used, when a tube with a camera on the end is inserted into the mouth or anus. This is done only if nothing was found in the stool, but the doctor has reason to assume the presence of parasites.
In some cases, a blood test is done to detect antibodies and antigens with which the body responds to a possible infection. If tests and endoscopy failed to find parasites, your doctor may order an MRI, X-ray, or CT scan. But this is very rare.
How to get rid of parasites
There are many popular recipes on how to get rid of parasites with a decoction of tansy, red pepper, garlic, or soda. But the dosage of the ingredients is unclear and these methods cannot be considered effective. There is also no verified data on how herbal treatment works. Also, all these methods do not take into account possible side effects and allergic reactions.
There are effective medications that can help eliminate parasites. Such drugs should not be taken for prophylactic purposes or prescribed on their own, because different parasites need different remedies. Only a doctor selects the appropriate drug and its dosage.
Pumpkin seeds will not help at all in the fight against parasites?
Very, very unlikely: there are many parasites and science does not know what worms they can help with. But if you really want to add pumpkin seeds to your medicine intake, you won't be hurt. Pumpkin seeds are healthy and contain 13 mg of iron per 100 grams. The norm for iron for men over 18 years old and women over 50 years old is 8. 7 mg per day, and for women 19 to 50 years old, 14. 8 mg per day. It is necessary to create red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout the body. Iron can also be obtained from meat, nuts, legumes, and dried fruits.
Pumpkin seeds can be eaten raw or roasted. Add them to baked goods, salads, and cereals if you are not allergic. For better absorption of vegetable iron, eat foods with vitamin C: citrus fruits, bell peppers, strawberries, currants, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts.
How to avoid infection by parasites
The main risk factors are youth, hot weather and poor hygiene. For example, children under the age of 10 can become carriers of pinworms and pinworms, because they often do not wash their hands, they like to play in the mud and jump in puddles.
To prevent the appearance of parasites, follow these rules:
- Drink only bottled water in unsanitary areas.
- Do not eat pre-cut fruits and vegetables, for example, in the markets.
- Wash your hands with soap and water.
- Do not kiss animals and wash your hands after touching them.
- Wash vegetables and fruits well.
- Try not to eat raw shellfish.
- Heat meat, fish, and poultry until done.
If you think you have parasites, or could see them, do not search the Internet in what proportion to mix soda and red pepper. Most parasitic infections are now treated very easily. For example, one dose of mebendazole helps with pinworms and another dose after a couple of weeks. Go to your doctor immediately and drink medication only according to your prescription; if the dose is wrong, they can be toxic.
Contact your pediatrician if your child is infected with the parasite. If you have them, see your GP or GP.