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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Mike Bedigan

Why doctors are warning against new online health trend

  • Medical professionals are cautioning against a growing trend of "parasite cleanses" promoted by wellness influencers and celebrities online.
  • These holistic treatments claim to eliminate parasites responsible for various symptoms, including bloating, insomnia and food cravings, using supplements or herbal remedies.
  • Doctors, such as Dr. Ihab Ahmed and Dr. Peter Hotez, dispute the effectiveness and safety of these self-prescribed cleanses, emphasizing that self-diagnosis is unreliable and "catch-all" remedies are unlikely to work for diverse parasites.
  • Prominent influencers, like "The Worm Queen" Kim Rogers, who is not a doctor, sell cleanse kits and advocate for frequent use, despite medical skepticism.
  • Many of these products lack FDA approval, often carry disclaimers stating they are not intended to diagnose or treat diseases, and some even include warnings about potential health risks.

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