Parasites are tiny worms transmitted when you come with contaminated soil, water or food. Though you may not experience symptoms for years after acquiring parasites, potential symptoms include stomach pain or tenderness, bloating, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, lethargy, weight loss and worms in your stool. Your doctor may prescribe medication once you've been properly diagnosed, which are more effective than alternative treatments, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. In addition, certain foods can support healing and prevent parasites from growing.
Yogurt and Kefir
Yogurt and kefir contain probiotics, healthy bacteria that promote digestive function and help prevent infections caused by harmful bacteria. According to a research review published in "Current Issues in Molecular Biology" in 2008, probiotics help protect your digestive tract from harmful bacteria and adverse effects of parasites. Though additional research is needed, according to the report, incorporating probiotics into your diet regularly may promote healing from parasites. For maximum probiotic benefits, consume kefir and/or low-fat yogurt with live active cultures, or that list lactobacillus acidophilus, lactobacilus plantarum, saccharomyces boulardii or bifidobacteria, on food packaging, regularly.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are rich sources of nutrients, such as iron, selenium and B-vitamins, and fiber. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests eating more fiber as a dietary tool for eliminating parasitic worms. For best results, replace refined carbohydrate sources, such as enriched breads, pasta, cereals and snack foods, with whole grain equivalents. Whole grains foods particularly rich in fiber include steel cut and old fashioned oatmeal, cooked barley, 100 percent whole grain breads and cold cereals, air-popped popcorn, whole wheat spaghetti, brown rice and wild rice. When purchasing whole grain foods, check food packaging to ensure that whole grains are listed as main ingredients.
Legumes
Legumes are podded vegetables that provide rich amounts of fiber, nutrients, such as iron and calcium, and protein. MayoClinic.com lists legumes, including split peas, lentils, black beans, lima beans and vegetarian baked beans, as some of the top available fiber-rich foods. Legumes also provide nutritious alternatives to high-fat protein sources, such as red and processed meat, which can make inflammation, pain and diarrhea worse.
Vegetables and Seeds
Vegetables provide rich amounts of antioxidants, which help your body heal and protect itself from infections and disease. Certain varieties, including raw garlic, pomegranates, carrots and beats, have been used traditionally to eliminate parasites, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Pumpkin and papaya seeds may provide similar benefits. Vegetables particularly rich in fiber and antioxidants include artichokes, peas, broccoli, turnip greens, sweet potatoes and winter squash. Flaxseed is rich in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which may help reduce inflammation.
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