Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (355 page)

Worms are a type of parasite that live in the gastrointestinal tract. And more people have them than you might think. They include round worms, pin worms, and tapeworms. They are incredibly common due to foreign travel, poor quality factory-produced meats, and the use of antibiotics and vaccinations that compromise the immune system. Diets high in sugar, refined foods, and dairy products also provide the ideal environment in which worms can thrive.

Symptoms of an infestation include loss of or excessive appetite, cravings for sweets, weakness, abdominal pain, diarrhea, anemia, rectal itching, and weight loss. Sometimes the larvae can be seen in the stool. Sometimes there are no symptoms at all.

Worms can lead to nutrient deficiencies and therefore a whole array of symptoms including growth problems, susceptibility to other infections, and anemia. Always get iron levels checked if worms or parasites are a problem.

CAUSES MAY INCLUDE

Eating undercooked meat or fish.

Sometimes raw vegetables.

Walking barefoot in warm, moist climates.

Poor hygiene.

Contamination from pets.

Action plan

Worms need immediate attention as, the effects can be far-reaching. So see your GP; the following may also help.

EAT/DRINK

Sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, and figs which have antiworm effects.

Pineapple, which is particularly useful against tapeworms, as the bromelain in fresh pineapple destroys tapeworms. Make sure you eat the core of the pineapple, as this is where most of the bromelain is found.

Raw onions and garlic.

Veggie juices. If you can stand it juice some raw garlic with your veggies, too.

AVOID

Sugar, refined carbohydrates, processed foods, alcohol, and sweet fruits (apart from figs and pineapples), as the sugars in these foods are what worms like best.

Meat, fish, or poultry that is not fully cooked or that has been left out at room temperature. Avoid pork and all pork products completely.