Silver and Gold Magazine Fall 2015 | Page 21

PARASITES IN OUR FOOD? – By Dr. Philip Lee, BSc, ND Thanks Dr. Philip! Registered Naturopathic Doctor FFount O 20n%iors Disc Se Eating food raw, such as salad, sushi and half-cooked beef, is very common in our society. Although there are many benefits of eating our food raw, eating uncooked meat can especially increase risk of exposure to parasites such as bacteria or even worms. As recent as August of this year, CBC reported that there was an intestinal outbreak of cyclospora across Canada which has been linked to various types of imported fresh produce – such as pre-packaged salad mix, basil, cilantro, berries, and more. The outbreak is not life threatening, however it causes cramps, diarrhea and loss of appetite. If you are experiencing bloating, excessive burping, diarrhea or constipation, indigestion or reflux, stomach discomfort and gassiness, you may have ingested foods that were contaminated with this bacteria, yeast or other parasites. You can reduce your exposure to parasites by washing fruits and vegetables with raw apple cider vinegar or with a small concentration of food-grade hydrogen peroxide. Using vinegar and herb-based salad dressings can also boost the anti-bacterial effect that we need. Cooking and marinating our meat with herbs not only helps to make them tastier but help in this anti-bacterial effect, as many herbs have great anti-parasitic effects. Garlic, oregano, clove, horseradish and ginger are just few examples of herbs with amazing anti-parasitic properties. In my years of practice I have commonly seen people living with abdominal pain, diarrhea and discomfort for many years, thinking this was “normal for them.” Many of these digestive symptoms simply are not normal. There are underlying causes that need to be reviewed and dealt with. When parasites are finally cleaned out and a good-quality bacteria (probiotic) is prescribed, symptoms improve because the root of the problem was addressed. Don’t just take a pill for it – fix it for good. • Dr. Philip Lee is a Registered Naturopathic Doctor in Burlington, ON. 905-634-8598 www.DrPhilipLee.com ils. eta d for uire Inq • Sleep troubles • Digestive issues • Candida • Dermatitis • Joint pain • Depression Dr. Philip Lee, BSc, ND Burlington Natural Health Centre, 1066 Brant Street, Burlington 905.634.8598 www.DrPhilipLee.com i de r Ap p l e C i s Vinegar S up e r ! Studies indicate Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) may help type 2 diabetics with lowering after-meal blood glucose spikes by as much as 25%, lower cholesterol and blood pressure, prevent some cancers, and aid in moderate weight loss. ACV also works great as hair conditioner (1 Tbsp ACV diluted in 1 Cup water, sprayed over hair - the scent dissipates after rinsing) and remover of pesticides and bacteria from fresh produce. Autumn 2015 21