Intestinal Parasites

Authored by Chris McDermott, APRN, practicing with autonomous authority in Florida

Introduction

Intestinal parasite infections are often associated with underdeveloped regions of the world, yet they remain surprisingly common in the United States—especially among individuals who have traveled internationally, consumed contaminated water or food, or have compromised immune systems. At Intercoastal Health, we approach parasitic infections using a functional medicine framework—targeting not only the elimination of the pathogen but also the restoration of gut barrier integrity, microbiome balance, and immune resilience.

What Are Intestinal Parasites?

Intestinal parasites are organisms that live within the human gastrointestinal (GI) tract and derive their nutrition at the expense of the host. These parasites fall into two main categories:

• Protozoa: Single-celled organisms like Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba histolytica, and Cryptosporidium
  
• Helminths: Multicellular worms such as roundworms (Ascaris), tapeworms (Taenia), and hookworms
  
  

While some individuals can carry parasites asymptomatically, others may experience persistent and often misdiagnosed symptoms affecting digestion, nutrient absorption, and systemic health.

Symptoms: Recognizing a Hidden Infection

Symptoms of intestinal parasitic infections can range from mild to severe and may mimic other gastrointestinal disorders:

• Digestive symptoms: diarrhea, abdominal cramps, bloating, gas, nausea
  
• Fatigue and weakness due to malabsorption
  
• Unexplained weight loss or appetite changes
  
• Nutritional deficiencies, such as Iron Need and Vitamin B12 Need
  
• Skin manifestations: rashes, itching, or urticaria
  
• Low-grade fever or malaise
  
• Visible worms in stool (especially helminth infections)
  
  

Parasitic infections may also trigger Intestinal Hyperpermeability and chronic Inflammation, increasing risk of systemic immune dysregulation.

How Are Parasites Contracted?

Parasitic infections occur through several common routes:

• Contaminated food or water
  
• Poor hygiene practices
  
• Soil contact (barefoot exposure)
  
• International travel to areas with poor sanitation
  
• Close contact with infected individuals or pets
  
• Insect vectors (e.g., mosquitoes, flies)
  
  

Individuals with weakened Immune Function or chronic Gastrointestinal Function disorders are particularly vulnerable.

Functional Diagnostic Approach at Intercoastal Health

Our comprehensive evaluation for parasites includes:

1. Stool Analysis

• Microscopic examination for ova and parasites
  
• PCR-based DNA detection
  
• Evaluation of markers such as Calprotectin for gut inflammation
  
• Assessment of Secretory IgA for mucosal immunity
  
  

2. Blood Testing

• Eosinophils – Absolute for helminth infection
  
• Ferritin and iron studies
  
• Immunoglobulin profiles to detect chronic infection
  
  

3. Advanced Imaging

Utilized if complications such as cysts or obstructions are suspected.

4. Endoscopy/Colonoscopy

Considered in persistent or complex cases.

Clinical Implications of Chronic Parasitic Infection

Left untreated, parasites can lead to:

• Anemia
  
• Immune Insufficiency
  
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
  
• Failure to thrive in children
  
• Post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
  
• Increased intestinal permeability
  
  

Common Biomarkers and Laboratory Indicators

Interfering Factors in Diagnosis

• Intermittent shedding requiring multiple stool samples
  
• Recent antibiotic/antiparasitic therapy masking detection
  
• Inadequate stool sample handling
  
• Overlapping symptoms with food sensitivities
  
• Co-infections complicating interpretation
  
  

Medications That Influence Detection or Progression

Common Antiparasitic Agents:

• Metronidazole: Giardia, Entamoeba
  
• Albendazole: Roundworms, hookworms
  
• Praziquantel: Tapeworms
• Nitazoxanide: Cryptosporidium, Giardia

Functional Medicine Strategy at Intercoastal Health

1. Targeted Antimicrobials
   Botanical agents (e.g., oregano oil, black walnut, berberine) and prescription therapies as appropriate.
   
2. Digestive Support
   Enzyme supplementation, bile acids, mucosal healing nutrients (e.g., L-glutamine, aloe vera).
   
3. Microbiome Restoration
   High-quality probiotics and selected prebiotics.
   
4. Immune Regulation
   Nutrient support (e.g., zinc, Vitamin D Need) and adaptogenic botanicals.
   
5. Environmental Hygiene Counseling
   Focused on safe water, food handling, pet care, and hygiene.
   
   

Preventing Reinfection

• Use filtered or boiled water in high-risk areas
  
• Wash hands before eating or preparing food
  
• Avoid undercooked meats and unwashed produce
  
• Practice pet deworming and barefoot protection in endemic areas
  
• Strengthen gut immunity through proper nutrition