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How can research on the relationship between helminths and mental health inform future treatment options for mental illnesses?
What is the Relationship Between Helminths and Mental Health and Health?
Helminths, commonly known as parasitic worms, have been linked to mental health and physical health in a number of ways. A recent study examining the relationship between helminths and mental health has suggested that helminths may play a role in the regulation ofpsychological processes such as attention and emotion regulation. The study also suggested that helminth infestations may have a beneficial effect on physical health.
Benefits of Helminths on Mental Health
The study found that helminth co-infection with another parasite, Toxoplasma gondii, was associated with increased attention in individuals with depressive symptoms. The study also found that helminths protected against immune-mediated behaviors, such as anxiety. The suggestion is that helminths may have a calming effect on the nervous system by dampening inflammation.
Benefits of Helminths on Physical Health
The study also suggested that helminth infestations may have a beneficial effect on physical health. In particular, the study reported that helminth infestations were associated with a decrease in the production of inflammatory cytokines and an increase in the production of regulatory cytokines. This, in turn, may lead to improved physical health and improved functioning of the immune system.
Summary
In summary, evidence suggests that there may be a relationship between helminths and mental health and physical health. Specifically, the evidence suggests that helminth co-infection may have a beneficial effect on mental health, such as increased attention and improved immune-mediated behaviors, and that helminths may have a beneficial effect on physical health by decreasing inflammation. More research is needed to understand the precise mechanisms by which helminth infestations may affect mental and physical health. Helminths mental health, Helminths physical health, Helminths emotional health, Helminths anxiety, and Helminths immunomodulation are key words to remember when researching this relationship.
