Cyclosporiasis: Nutrition Modifications to Keep Summer Healthy
By Dr. Xamantha Curameng, ND
Summer is a time for fresh salads, herbs, and fruit platters, but not this season. Cyclosporiasis is making headlines as it spreads across the United States through contaminated produce. Cyclosporias is an intestinal illness caused by the parasite, Cyclospora cayetanensis. You can get cyclosporiasis by consuming contaminated food and water.
Avoid or Use Caution for Now
While it is still not clear what’s driving the current transmissions yet, Cyclosporiasis is currently associated with the following foods:
Fresh leafy greens, especially bagged pre-bagged/pre-cut salads
Cilantro
Basil
Raspberries and other berries
Other fresh produce in general: cucumbers, green onions, snow peas, etc.
Safer Ways to Enjoy Summer Produce
While it is important to avoid the above foods for now, does that mean you can’t eat fruits and veggies? Don’t let Cyclospora stop you from eating healthy foods. Here are some ways you can continue to eat fruits and veggies these season:
Wash your produce thoroughly to reduce risk*
Cook your veggies to an internal temperature of 158F
Opt for frozen fruits and veggies
Opt for thick-skinned produce aka items that you peel yourself such as bananas, oranges, watermelons, and pineapples
Limit fresh veggies to locally grown organic options, such as your family garden
*Washing produce only reduces risk, it does not completely eliminate the risk of cyclospora infection
Nutrition Swaps
Additionally, here are some fun nutrition swaps to consider for the summer:
Instead of: |
Try this: |
| Fresh fruit platters | Frozen fruit smoothies |
| Bagged salad kits | Vegetable stir-fry |
| Raw spinach salads | Sauteéd spinach with garlic and lemon |
| Fresh basil pesto | Cooked basil pesto |
| Raw veggie trays | Roasted or grilled veggie trays served with hummus |
Don’t let Cyclospora cause fear of fruits and vegetables this summer. Choose options that are frozen, cooked, or easier to wash thoroughly when outbreaks or recalls are in the news.
If you suspect that you have cyclosporiasis or are experiencing any of the following symptoms including: persistent watery diarrhea, nausea, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, fatigue or weight loss, please see your healthcare provider.