There is no significant scientific evidence that pumpkin seeds can help get rid of pests. Neither the WHO nor the US National Health Service makes this recommendation. Even how many seeds you have to eat, no one will say for sure. There is no data verified by 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
Alone at home he will not be able to tell if there are parasites. Often these uninvited roommates do not show themselves in any way. They can be seen in the bathroom only after going to the toilet or vomiting.
Many of the symptoms that indicate parasites can in fact be signs of many other diseases. For example, diarrhea, bloody stools, nausea or vomiting can still be symptoms of poisoning or gastrointestinal disease.
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, ascaris larvae can end up in the lungs. Then the person will be tormented by coughing, 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. Therefore, it is best to go to a therapist right away.
If your doctor confirms your suspicions, they will recommend a stool test. Such a test may be prescribed if diarrhea, cramps, flatulence and other unpleasant symptoms from the intestine regularly occur.
Less commonly, endoscopic examinations are used, when a tube with a camera on the end is inserted into the mouth or anus. This is only done 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 performed for antibodies and antigens with which the body responds to possible infections. If tests and endoscopy failed to find the parasites, the doctor may order an MRI, X-ray, or computed tomography. 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, red pepper, garlic or soda. But the dosage of the ingredients is unclear and these methods cannot be called effective. There is also 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 drugs that can help get rid of parasites. Such medicines should not be taken for prophylaxis or prescribed alone, because different parasites need different remedies. Only a doctor selects the appropriate drug and its dosage.
Will pumpkin seeds not help at all in the fight against pests?
Very, very unlikely: there are many parasites and science does not know which worms they can help from. But if you really want to add pumpkin seeds to your medication intake, you won't hurt yourself. Pumpkin seeds are healthy and contain 13 mg of iron per 100 grams. The iron norm for men over 18 and women over 50 is 8. 7 mg per day, and for women from 19 to 50 - 14. 8 mg per day. It is needed to create red blood cells that carry oxygen throughout the body. Iron can also be obtained from meat, dried fruit, legumes and nuts.
Pumpkin seeds can be eaten raw or roasted. Add them to baked goods, salads, and cereals if you're not allergic. In order for iron to be better absorbed, eat foods with vitamin C: citrus fruits, peppers, strawberries, currants, potatoes and Brussels sprouts.
How to avoid getting infected with parasites
The main risk factors are young age, hot weather and poor hygiene. For example, children under 10 can become carriers of roundworms and pinworms, because they often do not wash their hands, love to play in the mud and jump in puddles.
To prevent the appearance of parasites, follow these rules:
- Only drink bottled water in unsanitary areas.
- 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 touching them.
- Thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables.
- Try not to eat raw fish.
- Reheat meat, fish and poultry until cooked.
If you seem to have parasites, or if you have managed to see them, do not search the Internet in what proportion to mix soda and chili. Most parasitic infections are now treated very simply. For example, one dose of mebendazole helps with pinworms and another dose after a couple of weeks. Go to your doctor right away and only drink drugs 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, consult your family doctor or primary care physician.