The body is designed in a sophisticated way: to engage with the outside environment, balancing both the ability to absorb helpful compounds and to protect against harmful agents. Protective elements including the skin, mucus membranes, and immune system work together to fight against outside threats that can harm health. Even with all of these factors at play, exposure to a threat can occur and illness can manifest. A common illness caused by the environment, mold toxicity, is an example of an outside threat that can manifest in the body and lead to devastating symptoms driven by a prolonged immune system response in susceptible individuals. Mold toxicity can be a life-altering course of illness for many and can be challenging to overcome. Understanding the nature of the exposure and applying a deeply personalized approach to healing with functional medicine can lead to symptom relief and recovery.

What is mold toxicity?

Mold toxicity, also known as mold illness or mold-related illness, is a condition that occurs when an individual s exposed to a high concentration of mold spores, leading to various health issues. Mold toxicity is a categorization of biotoxin illnesses called Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), medically define as: “An acute and chronic, systemic inflammatory response syndrome acquired following exposure to the interior environment of a water-damaged building with resident toxigenic organisms, including, but not limited to fungi, bacteria, actinomycetes and mycobacteria as well as inflammagens such as endotoxins, beta glucans, hemolysins, proteinases, mannans and possibly spirocyclic drimanes; as well as volatile organic compounds.”

According to the National Institutes for Occupational Safety & Heath, it is estimated that close to 50% of today’s existing buildings have had or currently have water damage that produces mold. Therefore, the likelihood of exposure is relatively high within the U.S. population.

Certain foods can also contain a higher risk of mycotoxins (toxic substances produced by mold) and should be avoided by people who are vulnerable to the effects of mold exposure. These can include, but are not limited to, grains, dried beans and fruits, coffee grounds, some nuts and dried spices.

What causes mold toxicity?

Mold toxicity results from exposure to any type of mold, including common household molds like black mold and others found in damp environments, or mold found in food sources. Mold toxicity occurs when the body’s immune system reacts to mold spores, mycotoxins, or other mold-related substances. What sets mold toxicity apart from other environmentally driven illnesses is an individual’s genetic susceptibility to mold-related immune system responses. Those who have certain immune response genes may exhibit a dysregulated innate immune system response to mold. Unlike a typical immune response from the body, many can experience the inability to fully heal from mold toxicity on their own, leaving them stuck with symptoms that can range from low-grade discomfort to truly life-altering symptoms. This type of genetic susceptibility to mold is estimated to affect about 25% of the population.

Symptoms of mold toxicity

When mold spores are inhaled or ingested, they can trigger allergic reactions or toxic effects in susceptible individuals. Prolonged exposure to mold can lead to chronic health issues and exacerbate existing conditions due to long-term inflammation from constant immune system activation. Inflammation as a result of exposure to mold or mycotoxins can be an acute episode of illness or delayed over weeks to months.

Common symptoms of mold toxicity include:

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Brain fog, difficulty concentrating, and/or memory impairment
• Joint and other body aches
• Headaches
• Light sensitivity
• Skin sensitivity or rash
• Sinus congestion
• Shortness of breath
• Abdominal pain
• Cough
• Visual disturbances and/or eye irritation
• Mood changes, anxiety, and/or depression

Symptoms of mold toxicity can vary widely among individuals and may mimic other health conditions, making it challenging to diagnose, and for those who are extremely susceptible, difficult to heal. It also is important to note that mold toxicity can affect individuals differently, and some people may be more sensitive to mold exposure than others.

How to heal from mold toxicity

Healing from mold toxicity is unique to the individual. In people who are not genetically susceptible to mold, a normal immune system response to spores or mycotoxins will generally help clear the body of the threat. For those who are genetically vulnerable, it’s not as simple. Regardless, a good first step for anyone who was diagnosed or suspects they have mold illness is to relocate from any living or working environment that is suspicious for mold and have the area tested. Consider possible exposure in work or living spaces that may be damp, are older in construction, or poorly ventilated. Take note if any of the above symptoms are present or exacerbated when in those spaces.

If the body is unable to heal on its own from mold, consulting with a medical provider who has experience working with mycotoxin illness is crucial.

“We typically start by obtaining a thorough health history, identifying possible mold sources, ordering appropriate lab testing, and partnering with the individual to formulate a treatment plan,’ says Jill Vanarthos, PA-C, IFMPC, Essential Health – Raleigh provider and expert in mold toxicity.

“A treatment plan typically includes practical aspects of daily living as well as incorporating supplements, medications (mold binders, antifungals, etc.), and other modalities to support detoxification and elimination of mycotoxins from the body.”

Comprehensive testing may also be ordered to assess immune function, hormonal balance, micronutrient status, and other factors contributing to mold toxicity.

A functional medicine approach to mold toxicity healing is comprehensive and systemwide. Supporting the body’s natural detoxification pathways may involve targeted nutritional support, including antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, to enhance liver function and promote toxin elimination. Lifestyle modifications like incorporating leafy greens, cruciferous vegetables, berries, and omega-3 fatty acids into the diet can help combat inflammation. Restoring balance in the gut microbiome with probiotics, prebiotics, and gut-healing nutrients can help promote a healthy gut environment and support immune function. Finally, stress management, adequate sleep, regular exercise, and reducing exposure to environmental toxins can also be beneficial in healing from mold toxicity. A functional medicine provider experienced in mold healing can help design a personalized plan to lead to healing using targeted medicines and a whole-body, lifestyle-oriented approach to both recovery and prevention.

Mold toxicity is a complex health issue that requires a full understanding of genetic susceptibility and a multifaceted approach to healing. By supporting detoxification, optimizing nutrition and targeted supplementation, restoring gut health, and making lifestyle modifications, individuals can take proactive steps towards healing from mold toxicity and reclaiming their health – and life.

If you suspect you may be struggling with mold toxicity, speak to our qualified functional medicine providers to begin your healing journey today.