Is Mold Ruining Your Health?
Why is mold toxicity a concern?
Mold creates mycotoxins which can be dangerous to our health. There are different types and varieties, and more research is required on this topic.
However, we do know that the toxins can suppress the immune system, can damage and kill cells, can alter cell function and the nervous system, and can even promote cancer and birth defects.
Ever wonder what mold toxicity feels like?
Signs or symptoms can include: insomnia, fatigue, hair loss, weight gain or loss, craving sweets, light sensitivity, poor depth perception, memory loss, intolerance of fragrances & chemicals, nose bleeds, headaches, “brain fog”, numbness, tingling, weakness, tremor, nerve pain, dizziness.
It can also include general weakness, muscle twitches, anxiety, depression, OCD, or feeling like you have a ‘short fuse’, skin rashes, recurrent infections, autoimmunity, asthma, allergies, nausea, bloating, pain, vomiting, diarrhea, excess thirst or urination, night sweats, poor temperature regulation.
Who is most affected by mold?
There are a variety of different factors when it comes to mold toxicity. If an individual has secondary health concerns it is more likely that they will have a higher risk of experiencing signs or symptoms.
As with most concerns, genetics, nutritional deficiencies, previous environmental toxin exposure, age, and high stress can contribute to a mold reaction.
Think you may have been exposed to mold?
Here are some tips that can help offset the exposure, besides removing the source of mold.
Removing the source of mold, could mean moving, as well as replacing some belongings.
Managing stress, sweating with exercise or by using a sauna, getting 7-9 hours of sleep on average.
Eating as many vegetables as possible, and temporarily elimination of inflammatory foods such as gluten, dairy, grains, and sugars.
Getting our vitamins and minerals from natural foods is essential, but in cases like these supplementation is extremely helpful as well. Supplementation supports the immune system, the detoxification pathways, gut support, reduces inflammation, and supports our cells.
Here are supplement recommendations: (contact your PCP prior to implementation)
Liposomal Vitamin C 1,000 mg 2x/day
Liposomal Glutathione 250 mg/day
Omega-3 1,000-2,000 mg/day
CoQ10 200 mg/day
Dr. Z’s personal favorite’s include @quicksiliverscientific ‘s Mold kit which includes: glutathione, NAD Gold, Liver Sauce, minerals & electrolytes and the Ultra Binder. If you don’t know where to start, and are maybe unsure if you are experiencing symptoms from mold, this kit is a great starting point. The supplements support cell function, and help detoxify your system gently.
Where is mold most commonly found?
Mold is most commonly an issue when it is indoors, and when the toxins accumulate in the air and in belongings. Mold can be present in food, and that’s why it’s important to be diligent when checking out your produce prior to purchase.
Water damage can be a source of mold that’s affecting your health. If the affected area is not completely dried within 24-48 hours, it has potential to grow mold. Mold can also be hidden behind baseboards, drywall, or under carpet or floors. It can also be in other locations as well, and can be difficult without specific testing. It’s essential to have the correct installation and seals to avoid this from happening. Mold can also occur in humidity when it is over 60%.
How to prevent mold growth and toxicity?
Keeping the humidity in building less than 50% can help. Dry water spills or leaks within 24-48 hours. Check out all barriers to water, and re-caulk or fix as needed. Minimize mold exposure in food, personal care and household products. Taking supplements that support the detox pathways to stay ahead of exposures.
Note: Diagnosing mold-related illnesses is still controversial due to limited testing technology. Confer with PCP if experiencing any signs or symptoms.
How do you know if mold is a problem?
There are a few ways to test it, and currently there needs to be more comprehensive research and testing. A good starting point are spore traps that mold inspectors set up with a pump. This is not 100% accurate, but could be helpful.
The ERMI test is a bit more in depth, but also has limitations. There is also an HC-45 DNA scan that can detect 45 different molds, or ELISA test for 15 mycotoxins. If there are any elevations, it is recommended to look into it more.
To eliminate mold can be risky, if done by yourself. There are remediation companies that can do this safely for your convenience. It is essential to do research on companies to make sure the mold does not continue or spread.
