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 to eat, no one will say for sure. There is no verified data from medical organizations on this finding. We will tell you how to get rid of parasites and whether it is even worth eating pumpkin seeds.
How to know if you have parasites
Even at home you will not be able to understand whether there are parasites. Often times, these uninvited roommates don't show up in any way. They can only be seen in the bathroom after going to the bathroom or vomiting.
Many of the symptoms that indicate parasites can actually be signs of many other diseases. For example, diarrhea, bloody stools, nausea, or vomiting can still be symptoms of poisoning or gastrointestinal disease.
And it happens the other way around. Symptoms unrelated to digestion and bowel function can indicate that parasites are present in the body. For example, Ascaris larvae can get into the lungs. Then the person is tormented by coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. It appears he has bronchitis or pneumonia.
Only a doctor can make an accurate diagnosis after examination and examination. Therefore, it is better to go to a therapist right away.
If the doctor confirms your suspicions, they will recommend a stool test. Such a test can be prescribed if diarrhea, cramps, gas and other unpleasant symptoms from the intestines occur regularly.
Endoscopic exams are less common when a tube with a camera on the end is inserted into the mouth or anus. This only happens if nothing was found in the feces, but the doctor has reason to believe that parasites are present.
In some cases, a blood test is done for antibodies and antigens that the body uses to respond to a possible infection. If tests and endoscopy don't find parasites, your doctor may order an MRI, X-ray, or computed tomography scan. But that is very rare.
How to get rid of parasites
There are many popular recipes on how to remove parasites with a brew of tansy, red pepper, garlic, or soda. However, the dosage of the ingredients is not clear, and these methods cannot be called effective. There is also no verified data on how the herbal treatment works. In addition, all of these methods do not take into account possible side effects and allergic reactions.
There are effective drugs that can help get rid of parasites. Such drugs should not be taken for prophylaxis or self-prescribing, as different parasites require different remedies. Only a doctor will choose the appropriate drug and its dosage.
Pumpkin seeds don't help at all in the fight against parasites?
Very, very unlikely: there are a lot of parasites, and science doesn't know which worms they can help from. But if you really want to add pumpkin seeds to medication, you are not going to harm yourself. Pumpkin seeds are healthy and contain 13 mg iron per 100 grams. The iron norm for men over 18 years of age and women over 50 years of age is 8. 7 mg per day and for women between 19 and 50 years of age 14. 8 mg per day. It is needed to make red blood cells that carry oxygen around 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 granola if you're not allergic. To better absorb vegetable iron, eat foods with vitamin C - citrus fruits, bell peppers, strawberries, currants, potatoes, and Brussels sprouts.
How to avoid parasite infection
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 because they often don't wash their hands, like to play in the mud and jump in puddles.
To prevent parasites from appearing, follow these rules:
- Only drink bottled water in unsanitary areas.
- Do not eat pre-cut fruits and vegetables, for example at 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 meat, fish and poultry until cooked through.
If you think you have or have been able to see parasites, then do not search the internet for what proportions to mix soda and paprika in. Most parasitic infections today are treated very simply. For example, one dose of mebendazole will help with pinworms and another dose after a few weeks. See your doctor right away and only drink medication as prescribed - if the dosage is incorrect, it can be toxic.
Contact your pediatrician if your child is infected with the parasite. If you have them, see your family doctor or general practitioner.