Blastocystis, a single-celled organism that is among the most common pathogenic causes of intestinal infections, can be deadly in those with compromised immune systems, such as HIV patients. However, the parasite is also found in asymptomatic people—largely considered “carriers” for the disease blastocystosis—and has confused scientists debating whether it’s harmful or neutral to humans.
Recent large-scale research, however, has found that this gut bug could have redeeming qualities. It has been found in healthy people’s stool samples and is associated with positive biomarkers and whole-food diets.
