Intestinal worms can cause symptoms such as abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, nausea, changes in appetite, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or itching around the anus. But these symptoms can also occur with many other digestive conditions, so they do not prove that someone has a worm infection.
Although certain foods contain compounds that have shown antiparasitic activity in laboratory or preliminary studies, no food has been proven to reliably eliminate intestinal worms in humans. If a parasitic infection is confirmed, the appropriate treatment depends on the specific parasite and may require an antiparasitic medication.
That said, several nutritious foods can be part of a healthy diet while you are addressing digestive health.
Garlic contains sulfur-containing compounds such as allicin. Garlic is nutritious and has demonstrated antimicrobial and antiparasitic activity in laboratory research, but eating garlic should not be considered a substitute for proven treatment.
Pumpkin seeds provide protein, magnesium, zinc, and healthy fats. Traditional medicine has used pumpkin seeds for intestinal parasites, and some research has investigated their potential antiparasitic properties. However, evidence is not strong enough to recommend pumpkin seeds as a treatment for an established worm infection.
Papaya provides vitamin C, carotenoids, and fiber. Papaya seeds have also been investigated for possible antiparasitic effects, but human evidence remains limited. Large amounts of papaya seeds should not be consumed as a home treatment without medical advice.
Carrots are rich in beta-carotene and fiber. They support general digestive and nutritional health, although they do not directly kill intestinal worms.
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