Eating unwashed vegetables, berries, and herbs straight from the garden can lead to serious health problems. Beyond intestinal infections, there is a risk of listeriosis, which in severe cases can cause meningitis and, for pregnant women, miscarriage, according to infohub.kz.
Infectious disease specialist Elena Meskina said that dangerous bacteria and parasites from animal feces or other contamination sources can be present on the surface of fruits and vegetables.
First, she warned, eating unwashed products increases the risk of intestinal infections, including salmonellosis and other diseases accompanied by diarrhea. In severe cases, they can cause severe intestinal inflammation and dehydration requiring hospitalization.
Additionally, there is a risk of parasitic infections, as soil can contain helminth eggs and other pathogens.
Listeriosis poses a particular danger. The disease usually takes a mild form, but in people with weakened immune systems, a large bacterial load can lead to severe complications such as liver inflammation, meningitis, and other serious conditions.
The doctor specifically highlighted risks for pregnant women. According to her, contracting listeriosis during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage or other severe complications.
Meskina recommends thoroughly washing vegetables, fruits, berries, and herbs before consumption, even if grown on one's own plot, and seeking medical help promptly if symptoms of illness appear.