Mold… where it lurks, how it harms us, and how to address it.
Mold lurks in your food, organic building materials (like wood, fabrics and upholstery), in the air you breathe and on hidden surfaces in your home. Mold produces mycotoxins which enter the body and can cause a broad range of health problems. Whether mycotoxins are in the food you eat or in the air you breathe, mycotoxins can affect your health and quality of life in many ways. The health impacts of mold and mycotoxins include liver damage, immune suppression, cancer, and neurological damage.
Some common mycotoxins found in foods are:
Aflatoxins – Found on peanuts, corn, and nuts. Potent carcinogens.
Ochratoxin A – Found on cereals, coffee, and dried fruits. Potential nephrotoxic and carcinogenic effects.
Fumonisins – Found in corn. Linked to liver and kidney toxicity.
Deoxynivalenol (DON) – Found in wheat and barley. Cause nausea, vomiting, and immune suppression.
In the home - mycotoxins are a problem when inhaled. Living in a tropical or sub-tropical climate is especially problematic, as the following all factors all attract mold problems.
High Humidity
Frequent Rainfall
Poor Ventilation:
Condensation
Flooding
Mold exposure at home can cause health risks such as:
Respiratory Problems: Mold can cause or worsen respiratory issues such as asthma, allergies.
Infections: Mold exposure can lead to fungal infections, particularly in the lungs.
Mycotoxins: Harmful to humans and animals, potentiating neurological issues, liver damage, chronic immune issues and cancer.
Skin Irritation: Mold can cause allergic reactions, skin rashes, or irritation.
To manage mold growth:
Improve Ventilation: Using exhaust fans and opening windows for best airflow.
Dehumidifiers.
Fix Leaks promptly in walls, roof, plumbing, windows.
Control Condensation: Use insulation on windows.
Regular Cleaning... clean and dry surfaces, especially in areas prone to moisture.
Flood Protection, to prevent water damage.
Dealing with Existing Mold:
Cleaning Small Areas: For small mold patches, cleaning with a mixture of water and vinegar can be effective. Wear protective gloves.
Professional Mold Remediation: For larger mold infestations or persistent problems.
In tropical areas, it's important to maintain a proactive approach to mold prevention. It’s more about management than thinking you can ‘fix it’ once and for all.
The real mold solution is to eliminate it’s growth. However, here are some remedies to support your body detox mold, suggested for their detoxifying and immune-boosting properties.
Black seed oil (Nigella sativa)
Oregano oil
Activated charcoal
Apple cider vinegar (ACV)
Probiotics
Eucalyptus oil, (inhaled or topical)
Turmeric
Lemon and ginger
Coriander (cilantro)
Water and hydration
If you suspect you have mold toxicity, the best way to address it is:
Natural remedies mentioned.
Mold removal efforts at home.
Avoiding the typical mold foods, and eating fresh.
Liver flushing, to clear detox pathways (hit button to contact Sarah and book in for a liver flush)
With these, you can improve your overall health and support your body in recovering from mold exposure.