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Writer's pictureJessica Nowzaradan

Mold and Mycotoxins

Approximately 25% of the population carries genetic variations that may predispose them to decreased ability to detoxify mold. These variations can result in reduced antibody production that eliminates mold toxins, leading to chronic inflammation and decreased overall health. Two key factors to consider when assessing the need for support are the level and duration of mold exposure and an individual's genetics

related to their detoxification system. Understanding these factors can help identify those needing additional support to improve their ability to detoxify mold and maintain optimal health.

Below are some recommendations and supplements that have been suggested to support mold detoxification. As with any supplement, it is important to use any supplementation under the guidance of a healthcare professional, especially if you have any medical conditions, are taking medications, are pregnant or nursing. It's important to note that while these supplements may work for some, more research is needed to understand the potential benefits of these listed approaches.


  1. Address the root cause of mold exposure: take steps to remove any mold from your environment to prevent ongoing exposure. HEPA Filters can be a helpful support within one's environment.

  2. Supporting the body's natural detoxification processes (liver):

    1. Glutathione: This powerful antioxidant is produced naturally in the body and can help support the body's natural detoxification processes.

    2. Milk thistle: Milk thistle has been suggested to support liver health, which is important for detoxification.

    3. N-acetyl cysteine (NAC): NAC is a precursor to glutathione and has been suggested to support liver health and overall detoxification.

  3. Antioxidant Support:

    1. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help neutralize free radicals and support the body's natural detoxification processes. It is also a co-factor in the Glutathione Recycling process.

  4. Probiotics: Probiotics can help support a healthy gut microbiome, which is important for overall health and detoxification. Certain strains of spore-based probiotics have been found to produce enzymes that can break down mycotoxins, such as aflatoxin and ochratoxin, which are produced by certain types of mold. Additionally, spore-based probiotics have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help modulate the immune system. This is important because exposure to mold and mycotoxins can lead to chronic inflammation and dysregulation of the immune system.

  5. Binding to Toxins and support the elimination from the body:

Binders are substances that bind to toxins in the body, preventing them from being reabsorbed and facilitating their elimination. In the case of mold toxins, binders can help to bind and remove mycotoxins from the body, reducing the toxic burden on the body and supporting overall health. It's important to note that while binders play a crucial role in toxin removal, supporting the body's natural detoxification processes through hydration and fiber intake is also essential. Adequate hydration and including fiber in the diet ensure that toxins are effectively carried out.

Some examples of binders shown to support the body's natural detoxification processes and help remove toxins such as mold and mycotoxins include the following:

  1. Activated charcoal: This highly adsorptive substance binds to toxins in the digestive tract, preventing reabsorption.

  2. Bentonite clay: This is another highly adsorptive substance that has been suggested to bind to mycotoxins in the gut and facilitate their elimination.

  3. Chlorella, a type of green algae, supports the body's natural detoxification processes, the immune system and provide antioxidant benefits. It can bind to toxins like heavy metals and mold toxins and help remove them from the body. Additionally, its antioxidants, such as chlorophyll, Vitamin C, and beta-carotene, can neutralize free radicals, supporting the body's natural detoxification process. Scroll down to learn more about Chlorella and one of my favorite chlorella brands I personally use daily.

  4. Humic acid and Fulvic Acid are organic compounds found in soil and sediment. They not only act as a binder to help carry toxins out of the body, but they also break down and neutralize toxins, making them easier to eliminate. Additionally, their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties reduce oxidative stress, potentially benefiting individuals with chronic mold exposure-related inflammation.

  5. Cholestyramine: This prescription medication has been shown to effectively bind to mycotoxins and facilitate their elimination from the body. However, my personal approach is first to utilize holistic forms of treatment to support the body's natural healing ability.

6. Peptide Therapy: Peptides are short chains of amino acids that play important roles in regulating biological processes in the body. They can be used to address specific health concerns or optimize physiological functions. Peptide therapy is a growing field, with many peptides being researched for their potential to support immunity and balance biological systems affected by mold exposure.


One example of a researched peptide is Melanotan II, a synthetic peptide that mimics the effects of alpha-melanocyte-stimulating hormone (α-MSH). Originally developed for its tanning properties, Melanotan II stimulates melanin production in the skin, leading to increased pigmentation. By binding to melanocortin receptors, it can have various effects on the body, including immune modulation and hormonal regulation. Ongoing studies continue to explore its biological impacts.

The functioning of melanocytes and melanin production can be influenced by hormonal signals, genetic factors, and environmental exposures. Mold toxins may potentially interfere with the normal functioning of melanocytes and their receptors, both directly and indirectly. The specific effects can vary depending on factors such as individual differences, type of mold toxin, duration and intensity of exposure, among others.

For example, certain mycotoxins like aflatoxin and ochratoxin have been shown to exhibit estrogenic effects, resembling the actions of estrogen in the body. These estrogenic effects can interfere with testosterone production and signaling. Additionally, mycotoxins such as trichothecenes have been found to impact the function of the pituitary gland, leading to reduced secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH), which is responsible for stimulating testosterone production in the testes/ovaries.


Additional cellular enhancement and immune modulating peptides such as Thymosin Alpha 1 (TA1) & Thymosin Beta 4 (TB4) may also be used. Immune support is especially helpful for those with genetic variants that need more support when exposed to environmental toxins.


HLA-DRA Genetics


The HLA-DRA gene is a set of instructions in our DNA that tells our cells how to make a protein called HLA-DR alpha chain. This protein is like a key that helps our immune cells recognize and fight off harmful things, like germs or viruses, that might try to invade our bodies.

Sometimes the HLA-DRA gene has changes or variations that can make the key slightly different. This can affect how well our immune cells can recognize and fight off harmful things. These changes can sometimes make it harder for our immune system to fight off certain diseases, like autoimmune diseases or diseases related to mold exposure.


Chlorella:

My favorite daily detox support


Chlorella a green algae, is world recognized for its wellness abilities, medicinal properties [4] and its ability to remove heavy metals like mercury, lead and radiation [5]. Chlorella also has the highest concentration of chlorophyll in the world (200 x more chlorophyll than spinach and even more than liquid chlorophyll). Chlorophyll is the green pigment in plants and its chemical composition is virtually identical to hemoglobin (red blood cells). Chlorella algae has the highest concentration of chlorophyll in the world. Chlorophyll is essential for a strong immune system, cleansing your body and helping to reduce or prevent chronic disease [6] that during WW II when they ran out of blood for blood transfusions, the injured were given liquid chlorophyll and they healed just as fast. If you want a strong immune system or aren’t getting your daily greens, chlorophyll will be a great addition to your diet and fortunately chlorella algae has the highest concentration of chlorophyll in the world. Chlorella is also a rare source of Vitamins B2, B12 and K2, all which are easily absorbed in the body [7].


Visit ENERGYbits® website to learn more and order your algae tablets. Their algae tablets are the only algae brand sold, endorsed, trusted and used by doctors, nutritionists and wellness professionals

nationwide.


Use Promo Code: BLUEPRINT for 20% off your order of Chlorella and Spirulina


Understanding Mycotoxin Testing and Biomarkers


Mycotoxins are toxic substances produced by molds. Testing for biomarkers is a common method to assess potential exposure to mycotoxins in the body. It's important to clarify this type of testing measures mycotoxin levels in the body and is not intended to diagnose specific mold-related illnesses. When undergoing mycotoxin testing, it's crucial to follow the recommended steps and avoid factors that could affect the accuracy of the results.

For instance, certain foods like peanuts or berries, which are prone to mold contamination, can lead to elevated mycotoxin levels in urine tests if consumed before testing. Additionally, activities aimed at detoxification, such as glutathione or saunas, should be avoided before testing, as they may temporarily increase mycotoxin levels in the body and affect the results.


Several Laboratories offer Mycotoxin testing services. Rupa Health compares three common labs: Vibrant Wellness, Mosaic Diagnostics, and RealTime Laboratories. These labs typically assess biomarkers like Aflatoxin, Satratoxin, Verrucarin, Gliotoxin, Isosatratoxin, Roridin, Ochratoxin, Zearalenone, and Roridin, among others.


Sample Mycotoxins Report from Vibrant Wellness:

While mycotoxin testing can provide valuable information about potential exposure, it should be interpreted by a healthcare professional in the context of your overall health and medical history.

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