From Bloat to Fatigue: Parasites Could Be the Cause 🪱
by Rebekah Rizzo, Integrative Nutrition Health Coach
Center for Nutritional Healing
I know, I know…we don't really want to talk about this subject. Parasites aren't exactly a comfortable dinner-table conversation! BUT—this comes up often here at CFNH, and when we help clients deal with these critters, the results are undeniable.
Parasites are organisms that rely on a host to survive, and while exposure is common, it often goes unnoticed. In a healthy body, the immune system usually keeps them in check, but when the immune system is struggling, they can cause issues with digestion, energy, skin, pain, and so much more. The tricky part is parasites are masters of disguise—standard lab tests often miss them, and their symptoms can easily masquerade as other health concerns—showing up like food sensitivities, hormonal changes, or even everyday stress.
A Real-Life Story
Recently, a college student came to us struggling with years of mysterious symptoms—constant bloating, food sensitivities, anemia, losing hair and ongoing gut discomfort that made daily life difficult. Through Nutrition Response Testing, our owner and practitioner, Cindy Harrington, uncovered parasites were part of the picture. With targeted support, her body began to shift. Today, she's eating with more tolerance, feeling less bloated, experiencing less GI discomfort, and enjoying a real boost in energy. For her, this has been life-changing. She's heading back to college now with renewed energy, clearer focus, and a much brighter outlook on her health.
How We Pick Them Up (And Why It's Not Just a “Somewhere Else” Problem)
Parasites aren't only a concern in developing countries—they're a worldwide issue, and millions of Americans deal with parasite-related health problems every year. Parasites can sneak in through everyday life:
Food & water: undercooked meat, unwashed produce, or contaminated water
Travel: especially to areas with different sanitation standards
Pets & animals: contact with cats, dogs, or farm animals
Everyday life: swimming in lakes or pools, walking barefoot, or simply being outdoors
Most of us are exposed at some point—but what makes the difference is how strong and resilient the body is when it happens.
How Nutrition Response Testing® Helps
Because parasites are so good at hiding, Nutrition Response Testing can provide answers when standard tests fall short. By assessing how the body responds in real time, we can identify whether parasites are stressing the system and, more importantly, what specific nutritional support helps restore balance. When clients follow their personalized program, the changes can be remarkable—better energy, clearer digestion, healthier skin, and the sense their body is finally working with them.
Feel free to contact us if you have any questions. The team at Center for Nutritional Healing is always here to help — and you can call (484) 938-7691 to get connected.