This Cat Parasite may Cause Anxiety & Autism

The Healing Collective • November 2, 2022
Article provided by Ronald Grisanti D.C., D.A.B.C.O., DACBN, MS, CFMP complements of Functional Medicine University.

The toxoplasma gondii parasite commonly associated with cats has been linked to generalized anxiety disorder and autism.


INFECTION MECHANISM


The toxoplasma gondii's eggs are present in cat feces, and one of the most common ways people are infected with toxoplasma gondii is through contact with an infected cat.


GENERALIZED ANXIETY


A study published in the Journal Brain, Behavior, and Immunity found that 500 participants with anxiety disorders had a past toxoplasma gondii infection. The researchers found that a past toxoplasma gondii infection was linked to generalized anxiety disorder.


The authors concluded that these findings suggest that toxoplasma gondii infection is “strongly and significantly" associated with generalized anxiety disorder.

AUTISM

There is also a body of evidence that implicates the parasite Toxoplasma gondii as an underlining cause of autism and be worth ruling out.



In the medical journal, Microbial Pathogenesis, a study from 2020 showed that toxoplasmosis plays an important role as a risk factor for autism.


TREATMENT


Not to worry, you don't have to let your cats go - treatment is possible! Connect with a functional medicine provider for screening and plan for treatment.

The information on this site is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. It is intended as a sharing of knowledge and information from the research and experience of Dr. Grisanti and his functional medicine community. Dr. Grisanti encourages you to make your own health care decisions based upon your research and in partnership with a qualified health care professional.


We offer whole-person functional and integrative care at The Healing Collective. Contact us to schedule a free consult or to become a new patient at our clinic in Niwot, CO.


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