Mold mycotoxin is a common household problem that can lead to potential health hazards if left untreated. It can grow on any surface where there is moisture and can cause allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and even neurological symptoms in some cases.
For more information on mold and mycotoxins, visit this video.
Therefore, it is essential to test and identify the presence of mold in our homes. It is also important to detect the presence of mold mycotoxins in our body.
There are two types of testing commonly used to detect mold: urine testing and antibody testing. While both tests aim to detect mold, they have different methods and purposes. In this blog, we will explore the difference between urine testing for mold and antibody testing, and their significance in detecting and treating mold-related illnesses.
Urine Testing for Mold Mycotoxin:
Urine testing for mold, also known as mycotoxin testing, involves collecting a urine sample and analyzing it for the presence of mycotoxins – toxins produced by certain types of mold. These mycotoxins are present in the urine as a result of the body’s attempt to eliminate them from the system.
Urine testing has gained popularity in recent years, especially in the field of functional medicine, as it allows for the detection of mold exposure that may not present clear symptoms. It is a non-invasive and convenient testing method, as the sample can be collected at home and does not require any specialized equipment or personnel.
One of the key advantages of urine testing is its ability to detect mold exposure even after the individual has left the affected environment. The mycotoxins can remain in the body for an extended period, providing evidence of past exposure. This is particularly useful in occupational or long-term mold exposure scenarios.
However, one big drawback that urine testing is not validated. And this can be a problem when it comes to interpreting the test.
Dr. Andrew Campbell, an expert in mold-related illnesses discusses in the video that because urine testing is not validated, consumers should be careful in how they interpret the results.
Antibody Testing for Mycotoxin:
The first step is to see if you are suffering from the effects of mycotoxins and molds. Molds are biological, but mycotoxins are toxins, therefore much more dangerous. The test that we use at IC Healer is the serum antibody test by MyMycolab. This blood serum test is the most precise and accurate test there is for the detection of the body’s reaction to mycotoxins, both toxicologically and/or allergically. With the results of this test panel, a health care professional can then take the next step and start treatment.
MyMycoLab is a laboratory specializing in blood serum antibody testing for mycotoxins. Their laboratory tests for 12 different mycotoxins for both IgG and IgE antibodies. This is the most precise and accurate method to determine if a person has been exposed to mycotoxins.
Mold Allergies vs Mold Toxicity:
It is essential to understand the difference between mold allergies and mold toxicity. Mold allergies are an immune response to mold spores, and the symptoms are similar to other allergies, such as sneezing, itchy eyes, and runny nose. This is often accompanied by mast cell activation and histamine intolerance. Often, this is associated with an IgE immune mediated reaction.
On the other hand, mold toxicity, also known as mycotoxin illness, is a result of exposure to toxic mold species, which can lead to a wide range of symptoms, including fatigue, headaches, joint pain, and gastrointestinal issues. Often, this is associated with an IgG immune mediated response.
The MyMycolab test tests for both IgG and IgE immune mediated reactions.
Symptoms of Mycotoxin Illness:
Mycotoxins are harmful to our health and can cause a variety of symptoms, making it challenging to diagnose mold toxicity. Some of the common symptoms include fatigue, brain fog, respiratory issues, skin rashes, and neurological symptoms. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and may mimic other illnesses, making it difficult to identify the underlying cause.
Treatment of Mycotoxin Illness:
The treatment of mycotoxin illness involves a multi-faceted approach, depending on the severity of symptoms and the individual’s overall health. It is crucial to first identify the source of mold exposure and remove it from the environment to prevent further exposure.
In terms of medical treatment, some healthcare practitioners may prescribe antifungal medications or supplements to help eliminate the mycotoxins from the body. Detoxification protocols, such as sauna therapy and colon cleansing, may also be recommended to aid in the removal of mycotoxins from the body.
Other treatments include binders and medical nutrition therapy. Most binders can help to bind up mycotoxins in the GI tract. The downside to most traditional binders is that they also can bind up your vitamins and minerals. This can be a problem, because most patients that are afflicted with mycotoxin illness are very depleted in important minerals like magnesium, sodium, potassium, copper, but also vitamins like B-vitamins, and antioxidant nutrients like vitamin A, D, and E.
There is one exception and this is zeolite.
Zeolite acts as a strong “Detox magnet” in your body with the unique ability to selectively remove toxic elements while leaving essential minerals, vitamins and nutrients alone. Opposed to just grabbing everything it comes across, zeolite works by selectively binding toxic elements through a process we call “swap and drop.” Zeolite’s unique ability to selectively detox is what makes it a “smart binder” and such an incredible detox product.
The product we use at ICHealer is Zeocharge. To learn about the 3 levels of detox in this product, watch the video below.
I have found that my patients not only can remove environmental toxins using this product, but they are also able to improve their vitamins and minerals. This is especially true when we combine a higher dose of Zeocharge with Vykon, which is a customized formula that I compound for all my patients who have run a Hair Tissue Mineral analysis with me (and often paired with a Nutreval to help dial in their exact nutrient requirements).
You can buy Zeocharge here . Use the coupon ICHealer to get 10% off.
Here are some amazing case studies demonstrating this very interesting mechanism of Zeocharge.
Remediating a Home with Mycotoxins:
If mold is present in the home, it is essential to remediate the affected areas to prevent further exposure. Remediation involves removing the mold source and affected materials, such as drywall and carpets, and thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting the area. It is crucial to seek professional help and follow proper safety measures when remediating mold to avoid further contamination.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, urine testing and antibody testing are two types of testing commonly used to detect mold exposure. Urine testing is a useful tool in identifying past exposure to mold, while antibody testing shows an immediate physical reaction to mold allergens. In the case of mold toxicity, specialized testing for mycotoxins may be necessary.
If you suspect mold exposure or are experiencing mold-related symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical advice and address any potential mold sources in your home. With proper testing and treatment, mold-related illnesses can be managed and prevented, ensuring a healthy and safe living environment.
References:
1. Mycotoxins in urine vs mycotoxins in the environment: an in-depth analysis – https://www.mymycolab.com/blog/mycotoxins-in-urine-vs-mycotoxins-in-the-environment/
2. Diagnosis and treatment of mycotoxin illnesses: a primer for health care providers with case reports – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5594041/
3. Mycotoxin Testing and Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome – https://drmyhill.co.uk/wiki/Mycotoxin_Testing_and_Chronic_Inflammatory_Response_Syndrome
4. Urine Mycotoxin Testing: An Effective and Non-Invasive Tool for Identifying Exposures to Mycotoxins – https://labs.mymycolab.com/assets/reports/097 Molds and Mycotoxins.pdf