Intestinal Parasites - How to Prevent Them from Infecting Your Body

Helminths and protozoa are two of the main types of intestinal parasites that can affect the human body. The protozoa intestinal parasites have one cell and are able to multiply in humans, which can lead to infections and serious ailments over time. The most common protozoa parasites are the giardia and cryptosporidium, and these can be transmitted when the recipient's mouth is exposed to any form of fecal matter, whether it's through contaminated food, water, or anything else. Unlike the protozoa intestinal parasites, the helminths are worms that have many cells and cannot multiply in the human body when in adult form. The most common types of helminths in the United States are tapeworms, pinworms, and roundworms, and they are typically visual to the naked eye when they're in the adult stage.

You may have intestinal parasites if you start experiencing abdominal pain, are bloated or have excess gas, have loose stools that contain blood and mucus, or suffer stomach pains, weight loss, nausea, vomiting, or even passing a worm in your stool. The following are few ways you can help prevent exposing yourself to intestinal parasites such as tapeworms and roundworms:

• Wash hands with soap and water before handling food.
• Before eating any raw vegetables or fruits, wash, peel or cook them first.
• Make sure to de-worm your pets and treat them against fleas.
• Always wear shoes when you're walking on soiled areas.
• If you're traveling to a country with poor sanitation and hygiene, make sure to avoid contact with food contaminated with soil.
• Do not eat beef, pork, or fish that is undercooked or hasn't been refrigerated properly.
• Overall, always practice good hygiene.