Health

What Are Mycotoxins & How Do You Test for Them?

Bryant Smith | NoMoldWNC

May 23, 2023

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3 min read

Mycotoxins are frequent toxins in our environment that can cause major health issues such as mycotoxin allergies, immune system difficulties, inflammation, and cancer. Under warm and wet conditions, mycotoxins can grow on your food and in your home. Because mycotoxins can produce unpleasant acute and chronic symptoms, a weakened immune system, and major health problems, it's critical to detoxify your body and limit your exposure to them in your daily life.

This article will teach you about mycotoxins, how they affect your immune system, the signs and symptoms of a mycotoxin allergy, and a list of foods high in mycotoxins. You'll learn how to use a simple test to check for mycotoxins in your body. My greatest ideas for supporting mycotoxin detoxification will be shared with you.

What Are Mycotoxins and How Do They Work?

Mycotoxins are among the most common toxins in our environment, and they can cause major health issues. They're poisonous substances present in certain species of fungi that look like mold.

Under wet and warm circumstances, fungi may grow practically anywhere. This means they can colonize your home's wallpaper, ceiling tiles, fiberglass insulation, and other surfaces. Mold metabolites, or mycotoxins, are commonly found in buildings, automobiles, and some foods.

They may grow on cereals, bread, nuts, dried fruits, and spices, among other things. Mold development and myotoxicity can occur in food before, during, or after harvesting. Mold growth can be accelerated by storing some foods in a warm, wet, or humid environment.

It's crucial to understand that mycotoxins are chemically stable and can withstand food processing. This means that buying or eating processed or packaged foods may expose you to mycotoxins.

What Effects Do Mycotoxins Have on Our Immune System?

Mycotoxins, according to the World Health Organization, can induce acute symptoms of severe sickness after eating contaminated food. They also warn that mycotoxins, particularly those found in foods, have been linked to long-term health problems such as immune weakness and cancer.

Penicillium and Aspergillus produce ochratoxin A. It's a common mycotoxin found in foods like dry vine fruits, wine, grape juice, coffee, cereal, licorice, and spices. It has the potential to harm your immune system, kidneys, and fetal development.

Another mycotoxin produced by Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Byssochlamys is patulin. Grains, decaying apples and apple products, moldy fruit, and other consumables may contain it. It has the potential to be toxic and detrimental to your immune system, liver, kidneys, and spleen. It can cause nausea, vomiting, and stomach problems.

Fusarium is a fungus that can be present in soil and can cause mold toxins to grow. It can cause immune system suppression, digestive problems, and esophageal cancer.

People who have a compromised immune system as a result of sickness or pharmacological treatment are especially vulnerable to mycotoxins. They are more likely to get infections and symptoms in their skin, eyes, lungs, and other organs since their immune systems are already impaired.

Mycotoxin Allergy Symptoms

Mold exposure can cause mycotoxin allergy, sensitivity, or a range of other unpleasant symptoms. When you breathe in mold or mold spores, it can cause allergic reactions in people who are sensitive or allergic to mycotoxins.