“Eat or be eaten”

A Squeamish Story – As told by “Uncle” Norman.

“E e mo mpeng e bolokegile”, a Setswana proverb which loosely translates to: “What has been stomached is safe.”

But how safe is it, if your child has parasitic intestinal worms, such as pinworm, hookworm, large roundworm and whipworm?

Well, the obvious answer to that question is – It’s not safe at all.

This is because parasitic intestinal worms are known to feed on their host’s tissues (no, not the Twinsaver 2-Ply tissues in your child’s pockets), including blood, which unfortunately leads to a loss of iron and protein. The worms also reduce the ability of children’s bodies to properly absorb vitamins, such as vitamin A.

Now, in case you did not know, or have not “Googled” it as yet: Vitamin A is needed for a healthy immune system (the body’s ability to fight off diseases), it helps with vision (by allowing you to see in low light conditions), and keeps the skin healthy.

While you may feel squeamish at the mere mention or thought of worms, it is however important to teach children how they can do their bit to make a difference towards the health of our planet, by introducing them to the practice of worm harvesting/farming. This life skill could make them more conscious of the environment and may encourage them to recycle their food scraps. Albeit that worm harvesting/farming is a simple and effective way to reduce waste and enable families/schools to make their own inexpensive fertiliser, it is clear that children should not have to harvest worms in their own bodies. Ag siestog!

So, what must happen?

Well, all children (yes even yours), including adults should be dewormed once every six months.

Go on, ask your doctor… (then thank me later)