There is no significant scientific evidence that pumpkin seeds can help get rid of parasites. Neither the WHO nor the US National Health Service make this recommendation. How many seeds you also need to eat, no one will say for sure. There are no verified data from medical organizations for this result. We will tell you how to get rid of parasites and whether it is worth eating pumpkin seeds at all.
How to find out if you have parasites
He will not be able to find out if there are parasites at home. Often these uninvited roommates do not show up in any way. They can be seen in the toilet only after going to the toilet or vomiting.
Many of the symptoms that parasites show can actually be signs of many other diseases. For example, diarrhea, bloody stools, nausea or vomiting may still be symptoms of poisoning or gastrointestinal illness.
And the opposite happens. 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 enter the lungs. Then the person will be tormented by cough, wheezing and shortness of breath. He may appear to have bronchitis or pneumonia.
Only a doctor can make an accurate diagnosis after examination and examination. That is why it is better to go to a therapist immediately.
If your doctor confirms your suspicions, he will recommend a stool test. Such a test can be prescribed if diarrhea, cramps, flatulence and other unpleasant symptoms of the intestines regularly occur.
Endoscopic examinations are less commonly used when a tube with a camera is inserted into the mouth or anus at the end. This is only done if nothing is found in the faeces, but the doctor has reason to suspect the presence of parasites.
In some cases, a blood test is performed for antibodies and antigens with which the body responds to a possible infection. If tests and endoscopy fail to detect 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 remove parasites with a decoction of tansy, paprika, garlic or soda. But the dosage of the ingredients is not clear and these methods cannot be called effective. There are no verified data on how herbal treatment works. In addition, all these methods do not take into account possible side effects and allergic reactions.
There are effective medications that can help get rid of parasites. Such drugs should not be taken for prophylaxis or to prescribe yourself, because different parasites need different means. Only a doctor chooses the appropriate drug and its dosage.
Pumpkin seeds will not help in the fight against parasites?
Very, very unlikely: there are many parasites and science does not know which worms can help. But if you really want to add pumpkin seeds to your medication, you won't hurt yourself. Pumpkin seeds are healthy and contain 13 mg of iron per 100 grams. The rate of iron for men over 18 years and women over 50 years is 8, 7 mg per day, and for women from 19 to 50 years - 14, 8 mg per day. It is needed to create red blood cells that carry oxygen to the body. Iron can also be obtained from meat, dried fruits, legumes and nuts.
Pumpkin seeds can be eaten raw or roasted. Add them to baked goods, salads and cereals if you are not allergic. To better absorb plant iron, eat foods with vitamin C - citrus fruits, peppers, strawberries, blackcurrants, potatoes and Brussels sprouts.
How to avoid parasite infestation
The main risk factors are young age, warm climate and poor hygiene. For example, children under the age of 10 can become carriers of roundworms and pinworms, as they often do not wash their hands, like to play in the mud and jump on puddles.
To prevent the appearance of parasites, follow these rules:
- Drink only bottled water in unhygienic rooms.
- Do not eat pre-cut fruits and vegetables, for example in markets.
- Wash your hands with soap and water.
- Do not kiss animals and wash your hands after handling them.
- Wash vegetables and fruits thoroughly.
- Try not to eat raw seafood.
- Heat the meat, fish and poultry until done.
If you think you have parasites or have been able to see them, do not search the internet in what proportion to mix soda and paprika. Most parasitic infections are now very easy to treat. For example, one dose of mebendazole helps with pinworms and another dose after a few weeks. Go to your doctor immediately and take medicines only according to his prescription - if the dosage is incorrect, they can be toxic.
Contact your pediatrician if your child is infected with the parasite. If you have them, see your GP or GP.