The Link Between Your Mental Health Issues and Parasites
Did you know parasites could be causing your mental health issues? Many people today suffer from mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression. You may be asking yourself how can parasites be causing mental health issues and where would you even get parasites? Parasites are much more common than you think. The CDC recognizes that 80% of people possibly have some kind of parasitic infection. Parasites are organisms that live off of another organism, known as the host. To survive these parasites derive nourishment from the host. These parasitic infections can cause a number of different signs or symptoms while trying to survive off of the host, such as gut issues, hormonal issues, skin issues, and even mental health issues.
Some parasites can send neurotoxins to the brain causing issues like anxiety and depression. One neurotoxin some parasites can release is ammonia. Ammonia can cross the blood-brain barrier which depletes a neurotransmitter called, GABA. GABA reduces neuronal excitability, which helps to keep you calm. When GABA is depleted it can cause your mind to race, restlessness, fear, and irritability. This can directly effect your sleep and decrease your ability to focus and concentrate, manifesting as anxiety.
Studies have shown that certain parasites, such as Toxoplasma gondii, can have an impact on the host’s behavior by effecting other neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin. These two neurotransmitters play a key role in regulating mood and motivation. Decreasing your brains dopamine and serotonin levels can cause symptoms of depression and other mental health issues.
Other parasites have been linked to anxiety by effecting the gut microbiome. Tapeworms, for example, can cause a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, constipation, and malnutrition. These parasites are smart, they will release chemicals to cause constipation or diarrhea to prevent you from getting rid of them. The gut has a direct effect on the brain through the gut-brain axis. The gut-brain axis is a direct communication between the enteric nervous system and the central nervous system. So as much as the brain influences the gut, the gut influences the brain. When the microbiome or environment of the gut is off this is called dysbiosis. With an unstable environment in the gut, this can lead to miscommunication to the brain causing anxiety and other mental health problems.
These parasites can also hold onto viruses, bacteria, and fungi that can be held within a biofilm to hide from the immune system, which can make it more difficult to get rid of them. With the chronic infections in the gut this can also throw off the environment also causing dysbiosis. With chronic dysbiosis this can cause issues with the regulation of hormones. Many issues may arise from this such as estrogen dominance and high cortisol levels, which can lead to anxiety and depressive symptoms.
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The impact of parasites on the host’s mental health is not fully understood, and more research is needed to determine the exact mechanisms by which they contribute to the development of anxiety. However, it is clear that parasitic infections can have a significant impact on an individual’s well-being. If you suspect you may have a parasitic infection, seek help from your nearest holistic practitioner. It is not in your best interest to try to detox on your own. With the use of herbs and support of your drainage pathways through a holistic practitioner, we can help rid your body of the parasites, giving you symptomatic relief.
Some other common symptoms of parasites (but not limited to):
- Bed wetting
- Teeth grinding/Teeth Clenching
- Hypersensitivity
- Night terrors
- Sleep issues
- Skin Issues, like eczema and acne
- Dark circles/bags under eyes
- Seizures
- Allergies
- Food Sensitivities
- Constipation/Diarrhea
- Anemia
- Itchy Nose/Butt
In conclusion, parasites can have a significant impact on an individual’s mental health and general well-being. If you suspect that you may have a parasitic infection, it is important to seek medical attention and take steps to prevent further infections.
References:
- Kallen V, Ljungberg M, Lindén A, et al. Toxoplasma gondii infection and self-reported anxiety and depression: A population-based study. J Affect Disord. 2016;190:430-435.
- Flegr J. Toxoplasma-induced changes in human behaviour. Folia Parasitol. 2010;57(4):221-228.
- Torrey EF, Yolken RH. Toxoplasma gondii and schizophrenia. Emerg Infect Dis. 2007;13(11):1748-1754.
- Haque R, Huston CD, Hughes M, et al. Intestinal parasitic infections in developing countries and their impact on nutrition and health. J Nutr. 2003;133(11 Suppl 2):39
