IBS/BLOATING/PARASITES
posted 3rd July 2019
IBS, Bloating & Parasites – Are You Missing A Key Piece Of The Puzzle?
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is the most common gastrointestinal disorder, affecting up to 1 in 5 people in the UK at some point in their lives. It is typically characterised by abdominal pain, bloating, and alternating constipation and diarrhoea. In my practice, I have found that around one in three people present with symptoms related to IBS, often alongside candida albicans. In many cases IBS symptoms can be caused by food sensitivities, but not always.
Many people with IBS feel frustrated after trying everything—elimination diets, low FODMAP diets, candida cleanses, avoiding common triggers like gluten and dairy, or relying on over-the-counter remedies, only to find limited or no relief. But there is one often-overlooked cause of IBS-like symptoms: parasite infestation.
Could Parasites Be The Hidden Cause?
Parasites are far more common than most people think. In fact, millions of people carry parasites unknowingly, often misdiagnosing their symptoms as IBS. The symptoms of parasitic infections can mimic IBS, which makes it hard to pinpoint the real problem without proper testing. That is where Functional Laboratory Testing comes in. A comprehensive stool analysis (usually three samples), to account for parasite egg-laying cycles) can provide a clearer picture of what is really going on inside your gut. One sample isn’t always reliable as parasites can be elusive!
A Real-Life Example
One patient shared that when she first visited me, she could barely walk from the door to my desk—she felt so unwell. Testing revealed multiple parasites. Once we began targeted treatment, her health gradually returned. It is important to note that not all herbs or antibiotics work against all parasites. Treatment must be tailored to the specific organism(s) found. That is why it is crucial to know exactly what you're dealing with before starting any protocol.
Common Symptoms Of Parasitic Infection
- Abdominal pain & cramps
- Bloating & distension
- Constipation or diarrhoea
- Fatigue & chronic fatigue
- Food intolerances
- Weight loss or difficulty losing weight
- Nausea & vomiting
- Excessive flatulence
- Itchy skin or rashes
- Anal itching
- Teeth grinding (especially at night)
- Insomnia or disturbed sleep
- Joint & muscle aches
- Skin conditions
- Headaches
- Low immunity
- Nutrient deficiencies
- Anxiety, irritability, or nervousness
Parasites can also contribute to or worsen conditions like IBS, IBD, Crohn’s disease, colitis, gastritis, autoimmune disorders, and candida overgrowth.
Where Do Parasites Come From?
Parasites can enter the body in several ways, including:
- Contaminated food or water
- Raw fish or undercooked meat
- Unwashed fruits and vegetables
- Walking barefoot on sand or soil
- Animal contact
- Travel to certain countries
- Changing nappies or handling animal waste
Once inside, they steal nutrients, damage your gut lining, and suppress your immune system—making you more vulnerable to further infections and chronic illness.
Let’s Find The Root Cause
If you are struggling with persistent digestive issues, recurring food intolerances, skin problems, or fatigue, it is worth investigating whether parasites could be playing a role. My approach is always to look beyond the symptoms and identify the underlying causes, whether it is parasites, candida, food sensitivities, SIBO, bacterial imbalance, or stress.
© Ann Shaw Clinic Of Nutritional Medicine 2025