Impact of intestinal parasites on digestive function in humans

In humans as well as in animals, intestinal parasites can affect key stages of alimentation, digestion, and absorption. Selected examples of the effects of parasitic infection on food intake, intestinal propulsion and motility, organ function, epithelial structure and function, and intestinal circulation are presented. Malabsorption and nutrient loss can result from many of these common infections. Additional data are needed to determine the extent to which alterations in gastrointestinal structure and function vs. effects on appetite mediate the effects of parasites on host nutrition in humans.