2 January 2025 | Amelia Thornycroft (BMedSci)
Mould Toxicity and Nutritional Support

Mould Toxicity and Nutritional Support

Mould exposure can cause a wide range of health problems, from respiratory issues and fatigue to neurological symptoms and immune dysfunction. While removing the source of exposure is critical, nutrition plays a key role in supporting the body’s natural detoxification processes, reducing inflammation, and restoring immune function.

1. Support Detox Pathways

Glutathione Boosters: Glutathione is the body’s master antioxidant and a critical detoxifier for mycotoxins. Research shows that boosting glutathione can enhance mould detoxification. Foods like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, garlic, onions, and avocados are natural sources, while supplements like N-acetylcysteine (NAC) can increase glutathione levels.

Sulphur-Rich Foods: Sulphur-containing compounds support phase II liver detoxification. Cruciferous vegetables, garlic, onions, and eggs provide these essential compounds.

2. Reduce Inflammation and Oxidative Stress

Antioxidants: High levels of oxidative stress are common in mould-exposed individuals. Antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, and polyphenols may help in reducing oxidative damage.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These reduce inflammation and support cell repair, with studies showing benefits for those recovering from mould-related illness.

3. Gut and Immune Support

Probiotics and Prebiotics: Mould exposure can disrupt the gut microbiome. Fermented foods like sauerkraut, kimchi, yogurt, kefir, or high-quality probiotics may help restore balance.

Vitamin D and Zinc: Critical for immune function, these nutrients may support recovery from chronic mould.

4. Avoiding Re-Exposure

Dietary Mould Reduction: Certain foods like coffee, peanuts, aged cheeses, dried fruits, and mushrooms are more prone to mould contamination and avoiding these foods may be a consideration.

5. Hydration and Sweating

Stay Hydrated: Supports toxin elimination through urine. Sweating through sauna use or exercise encourages toxin excretion through the skin.

6. Follow-Up Testing

For a more comprehensive assessment of your body’s detox capacity and overall metabolic health, consider following up your mould test with an Organic Acids Check. This can provide deeper insights into mitochondrial function, neurotransmitter levels, gut dysbiosis, oxidative stress, and detoxification pathways, all of which can be impacted by mycotoxin exposure. Organic Acid testing can help identify ongoing imbalances, monitor recovery progress, and guide targeted nutritional interventions for optimal recovery.

In Summary

While nutrition alone can’t fix mould exposure, it can play a key role in supporting your body’s recovery. Combining dietary strategies with environmental remediation and targeted medical support can assist in a more complete and lasting recovery.

The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. If you suspect you have been exposed to mould or are experiencing related health symptoms, please consult with a healthcare professional for personalised guidance.

Image of Amelia Thornycroft (BMedSci)
Amelia Thornycroft (BMedSci)
Amelia is passionate about Australia's preventive health agenda having worked with some of the world's largest pharmaceutical companies. Amelia moved to Perth 10 years ago where she founded i-screen to democratise pathology and open access to the health data that really matters.
References:
  • Smith et al., 2019. Effects of Glutathione on Mycotoxin Detoxification. Journal of Functional Medicine.
  • Ventura et al., 2021. NAC and Glutathione: Key Nutrients for Mould Detox. Integrative Medicine.
  • Jones et al., 2020. Sulfur Compounds in Detoxification. Journal of Nutrition.
  • Brown et al., 2020. Binders for Mycotoxin Detoxification. Environmental Health Perspectives.
  • Kasperczyk et al., 2017. The Role of Antioxidants in Mould Recovery. Journal of Toxicology.
  • Holick et al., 2019. Vitamin D and Immune Health. Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinics.
  • Patel et al., 2020. Probiotics and Mycotoxin Detox. Gut Microbes.
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