by Lisa Wilson CHC

Vitamin D is one of those essential substances that we cannot function well without. 

It is common knowledge that the body makes its own Vitamin D when the skin is exposed to sunlight.  It is that form that we use most efficiently.  While Vitamin D supplements are great, “homemade” is better.  That is not a “free gift” to go into the sun at great lengths.  Small amounts are necessary; too much is not good, and you want to avoid that tan look. 

The Purpose of Vitamin D

Vitamin D plays a role in many body systems. 

We need it to help with calcium absorption, it is  considered by many to be protective against some cancers, helps regulate blood pressure and glucose metabolism.  Therefore is essential in the management of diseases like high blood pressure and diabetes.  Again, this is not saying that Vitamin D treats any of these issues but it is essential to maintenance and restoration of health. 

Parasites evade detection and diagnosis better than most human pathogens, explaining why some healthcare professionals deny their existence or clinical relevancy.  Since diagnostic tests are often falsely negative or not reliable, astute clinicians must deduce the presence of parasites. 

In other words – once the more common causes of GI problems, such as bacterial or yeast overgrowth have been eliminated, a possible cause of the symptoms must be parasitic.  I performed a study on 195 serial stool tests (CDSA) performed by Genova Diagnostics and found that parasites were detected on 17.9% of the samples.  Now that a DNA analysis is offered by Metametrix Labs, I have found a much higher detection level.  The conclusion is that parasites are a very common cause of gastrointestinal symptoms and when indicated, part of a functional medicine work up.

Complaints of chronic GI symptoms such as diarrhea, constipation, nausea, abdominal pain, bloating and gas are common. Occasionally all tests in such patients for GI functioning are normal, suggesting that something other than unfriendly flora is causing the symptoms.  This used to perplex me – but not any more.  Now I know that the hard-to-detect parasites are quietly skulking behind the scenes. 

Parasites do not seek to damage the host unnecessarily; they only want a comfortable home.  Parasites often do not cause many symptoms, unlike unfriendly yeast or bacteria. But on the other hand, parasites secrete toxins, some of which are toxic to the brain and may cause psychiatric and neurological symptoms. 

Parasite Symptoms and Clues to Infection

by Lisa Wilson CHHC