COMPENDIUM ON FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE - Flipbook - Page 302
parameters of gut permeability, inflammatory markers, and
microbiome composition after treatment [44].
Potential Explanations for Benefits in Asymptomatic Individuals
Several mechanisms may explain why even seemingly
asymptomatic individuals might benefit:
1. Subclinical inflammation: Parasites may trigger low-grade
inflammatory responses below the threshold of noticeable
symptoms
2. Adaptive normalization: Individuals may adapt to chronic
symptoms, recognizing improvements only after resolution
3. Microbiome effects: Parasites alter the gut microbiome in
ways that affect health beyond obvious symptoms
4. Immune system allocation: Resources allocated to
containing parasites become available for other immune
functions
5. Nutrient utilization: Even minimal competitive absorption
affects overall nutritional status
These findings suggest that parasitic organisms may exert broader
influences on health than previously recognized, affecting aspects
of physiology beyond overt symptomatology.
Preventive Strategies
Prevention remains the most effective approach to parasitic
infections:
Food Safety Practices
● Thoroughly cook meat and fish: Internal temperature of at
least 145°F (63°C) for fish, 160°F (71°C) for ground meats, and
165°F (74°C) for poultry
302
