We all know to eat our veggies and get 8 hours of sleep—but when’s the last time someone reminded you to check for worms? In the Understanding Parasites & Toxins in the Environment episode of the Thrivelab podcast, nurse practitioner Angie McGough chats with Kim Rogers, the founder of Rogershood and TikTok’s “Worm Queen.” Together, they dig into the very real world of parasites, candida, mold, and toxins—and how they might be secretly sabotaging your health. 

And don’t worry, this isn’t one of those terrifying health rabbit holes. With plenty of laughs, first hand experience, and science-backed insight, Kim and Angie show us how parasite cleansing and environmental detoxing can actually be simple, empowering, and kind of fascinating.

“I Went Viral With a Parasite Cleanse”

Kim’s journey into the world of cleansing didn’t start with a medical degree—it started with curiosity and a personal health crisis. “I was deemed the Worm Queen on TikTok when I went viral in 2021. I did a parasite cleanse and it went completely bonker viral,” she laughs. Since then, she’s helped thousands through her brand, Rogershood, which makes natural cleansing kits to support detox from parasites, mold, candida, and heavy metals.

According to Kim, one of the most common misconceptions is that parasites are only a problem in underdeveloped countries. In reality, they’re more common than you think. “We pick them up from sushi, from our pets, from travel, and even from fruits and vegetables,” she explains. And science agrees—according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), millions of people in the U.S. are affected by parasitic infections every year, often unknowingly.

What Parasites Actually Do to Your Body

So what happens when these little invaders take up residence? Kim and Angie explain that parasites can wreak havoc on your gut health, nutrient absorption, hormones, and immune system. “They love to feed off your minerals—things like iron, magnesium, and zinc—so you’re depleted even if you eat well,” Kim notes. And those minerals? They’re essential for energy, mood regulation, and yes, hormone balance.

A study published in the Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology found that long-term parasitic infections can lead to chronic fatigue, brain fog, and gastrointestinal issues—symptoms that are often misdiagnosed or brushed off. Angie adds, “This is especially important for women experiencing hormonal imbalances. If you’re dealing with fatigue, low libido, insomnia, or bloating—it might not just be ‘getting older.’”

Mold, Metals, and the Toxins You Can't See

Parasites aren’t acting alone. Kim points out that mold, candida, and heavy metals like mercury or lead can create the perfect storm inside your body. “These things all work together and weaken your immune system, making it harder to stay healthy or respond to treatment,” she says.

Environmental toxins can also interfere with hormone production and endocrine function. According to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, even low levels of environmental toxins can impact fertility, mood, metabolism, and immune resilience. “Detox isn’t just about weight loss or cleansing fads—it’s about giving your body a break from this constant exposure,” Kim emphasizes.

How to Know If You Need a Cleanse

Let’s be real—nobody wants to think about having a parasite. But if you’re experiencing symptoms like insomnia, constipation, acne, anxiety, itchy skin, or even sugar cravings, your body might be trying to tell you something. “Your gut health is your command center,” says Angie. “When it’s off, it can impact everything from your hormones to your mental health.”

Kim recommends gentle but consistent cleansing and says it’s best to be proactive rather than reactive. Her Parafy Kit includes herbs and binders that support the body's natural detox pathways. “It’s not scary,” she assures. “You’re just helping your body do what it’s already trying to do.”

The Gut-Hormone Connection

What’s especially eye-opening is the relationship between gut health and hormones. Angie explains that our gut is where many hormones are metabolized, including estrogen. “If your gut is compromised by parasites or mold, your hormones will feel the effects,” she says.

Research from the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism confirms that disrupted gut health can contribute to estrogen dominance, thyroid imbalances, and adrenal fatigue. In other words, that monthly rollercoaster of symptoms you chalk up to “just being hormonal” might be a sign to look a little deeper.

The Bottom Line: You Don’t Have to Do This Alone

Learning about parasites and environmental toxins can be overwhelming—but you don’t have to navigate it solo. If you're experiencing unexplained symptoms, Thrivelab offers personalized hormone healthcare that takes into account your whole body—including potential underlying factors like gut health and environmental toxins.

At Thrivelab, you’ll work with a compassionate, experienced team that truly listens. Whether you’re curious about a cleanse, suspect you might be dealing with hormonal imbalances, or just want to feel more energized and balanced, book a visit with Thrivelab and get the expert support you deserve. Your body’s been talking—maybe it’s time to start listening.