Kill those little buggers

Q: I was diagnosed with a parasite, Blastocystis hominis. I was unsuccessfully treated with Flagyl (metronidazole). Any-suggestions?

-- J.P., Wellfleet, Mass.

A: Parasites conjure images of Third World countries with polluted water. In truth, parasites can infect anyone's gut -- actually, any organ -- even if you're compulsively clean. That's because bad bugs can be transmitted through uncooked meat or fish, improperly washed fruits and vegetables, unpasteurized dairy products, dirty diapers, shaking hands with someone who didn't wash their hands after using the restroom, and the use of antibiotics, which destroys healthy flora in the colon.

Some people with parasites actually have no symptoms. For others, the signs of infection are painfully vague: fatigue, mood swings, frequent headaches or colds, diarrhea, constipation, flatulence, rectal itching, fluttering in the gut, or weight loss without even trying.

Most people have heard of GI critters like pinworm or Giardia.

B. hominis, however, occurs all over the world and is commonly associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS.) Some resistance has developed with Flagyl, however Yodoxin or Tindamax also are available.

Whatever you do, don't get constipated; straining for 30 minutes every two days is not normal. Also, all that fecal matter goes stagnant and becomes a breeding ground for parasites to eat you alive.

The cowards hide deep inside the crevices and folds of your gut, so No. 1 on my list is fiber because it absorbs water and collects parasites for removal. You can eat oatmeal or supplement with psyllium husks (Metamucil). You also should integrate healthy fibers such as flaxseed or Chia seeds -- yes the same kind in those Chia pets. There are many fibers -- one supplement I like is "Colonix'' because it contains Premium grade fiber so its "scrubbing" action is remarkable.

Along with fiber, consider a parasite-killing supplement. One formula called "Paranil'' combines powerful herbs (black walnut hulls, Pau-D'Arco, pumpkin, tumeric, etc.), which annihilate parasites, worms and their eggs. Be sure to ask your doctor or pharmacist before combining Paranil with other meds.

Colonix and Paranil can be purchased at DrNatura.com, or (800) 877-0414. One more thing: Probiotics are crucial to build a healthy camp of intestinal flora and strengthen your immune system.

Stool tests are unreliable in my opinion, though your doctor can order a specialized test called a Comprehensive Digestive Stool Analysis (CDSA) from Genova-Diagnostics, gdx.net, or-(800) 522-4762. It's wise to have general testing for food sensitivities, colitis and absorption problems. Consider EnteroLab. This lab will sell GI test kits directly to consumers -- enterolab.com or (972) 686-6869.

This information is not intended to treat, cure or diagnose your condition. Suzy Cohen's column is distributed by Tribune Media Services and is published Tuesdays in the TimesDaily. To reach her, visit 24-hourpharmacist.com