Pinworms are one of the most common parasitic infections among American children, especially those who attend school. PubMed Health states that pinworms -- small worms that target your child's intestine -- migrate to your child's anus, where they lay their eggs and cause severe itching. Certain dietary approaches may be helpful in treating your child's pinworms, although you should always consult a pediatrician before using diet and nutrition to treat the condition.
Pinworms
Pinworms affect millions of school-aged children every year. The most common signs and symptoms of a pinworm infection include reduced appetite, reduced sleep quality, and severe itching and skin infection near your child's anus. This health problem may also cause weight loss in some children, depending on the severity of the infection. Pinworm eggs are commonly found on drinking glasses, eating utensils, toys and toilets.
Appropriate Diet
Certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," states that a diet rich in fiber, raw vegetables and whole grains may be helpful for combating pinworms. Pumpkin seeds, raw pineapple, bitter melon and figs may be particularly beneficial. Consider eliminating all sugar, refined carbohydrates, pork and pork products.
A Helpful Food
Sesame seeds may be a particularly helpful food in treating your pinworms and other health problems. Sesame seeds have long been used for this health purpose. Sesame seeds have historically been used to promote bone, joint and skin health; reduce oxidative damage; and decrease inflammation in your body, reports nutritionist and biologist George Mateljan, author of "The World's Healthiest Foods." Sesame seeds are high in both copper and manganese.
Warning
If not treated in a timely and appropriate manner, pinworms may lead to several serious health complications, including pelvic inflammatory disease, vaginitis and reinfestation of the parasite. If your child suffers from anal itching, report to a pediatrician as soon as possible for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Not all dietary strategies historically used in treating this health problem may be backed by extensive clinical research evidence and should only be used under the care of a licensed physician.
References
- PubMed Health; Pinworms; July 2010
- KidsHealth; Pinworm; December 2008
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- "The World's Healthiest Foods"; George Mateljan; 2007
