Most people don’t realize that parasites are far more common than we think—even in developed countries. These unwanted guests can take up residence in the digestive tract and beyond, feeding off nutrients and creating inflammation, toxicity, and a wide variety of symptoms.

This guide will walk you through what parasites are, how they affect the body, common signs of infection, and how to begin supporting the body naturally.

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What Are Parasites?

A parasite is any organism that lives in or on a host (like a human) and survives by taking nutrients at the host’s expense. Parasites can live in the intestines, liver, bloodstream, and even organs like the brain, eyes, and skin.

Main types of human parasites:

•    Protozoa – single-celled organisms (e.g., Giardia lamblia, Entamoeba histolytica)

•    Helminths – worms (e.g., tapeworms, roundworms, pinworms, hookworms)

•    Ectoparasites – external (e.g., lice, scabies, mites), often coexisting with internal infections

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How Do People Get Parasites?

You can get a parasitic infection through:

•    Contaminated food or water

•    Undercooked meat or fish

•    Unwashed produce

•    Contact with animals or pets

•    Swimming in lakes, rivers, or pools

•    International travel (especially to tropical or underdeveloped regions)

•    Poor hygiene or sanitation

•    Contact with infected surfaces, soil, or people