Secret to summer slim and energized

Tired and puffy? Blame intestinal parasites. Research suggests up to 80% of women have these kinds of bad bugs.

- Melissa Gotthardt 

Ann Louise Gittleman, Ph.D., author of Radical Longevity, says the invaders act like ‘energy vampires,’ causing fatigue, brain fog, blue moods and digestive problems by impairing nutrient absorption, damaging the intestines and producing toxins. Plus, they trigger sugar cravings and slow metabolism,” she explains. You can easily pick up parasites from contaminated food and water, as well as contact with soil and even pets! Since parasites thrive in warm conditions, infection risk rises by 263% in the summer. Ready to wipe them out? Just…

Enjoy grilled chicken 

Or savor a steak. Poultry and beef are rich sources of zinc. That’s key, Gittleman says, since “parasites can’t hold on to the gut when the body has an adequate supply of zinc.” And since vitamin A works in tandem with zinc to deter parasites, she also advises eating vitamin A–rich foods such as leafy greens, broccoli, squash and cantaloupe daily. Tip: Season dishes with fresh garlic, which helps block parasites’ growth.