Mould and Your Health: What You Need to Know

Moulds are types of fungi that flourish in damp or humid places. Some moulds are completely safe and even delicious in the case of cheese like brie and camembert or fermented and cured foods like sake, soy sauce and salami. However other moulds can have seriously adverse effects on your health. 

Moulds reproduce by releasing spores into the air that we inhale. Toxic moulds can cause a wide range of symptoms, especially for those with sensitivities, asthma, allergies, or weakened immune systems or even formerly robust people with long term exposure.

Symptoms of Mould Exposure

Mould exposure can cause various symptoms, depending on the individual’s sensitivity and the type of mould present. Common symptoms include:

    •    Respiratory issues: Persistent coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and sinus congestion.

    •    Allergic reactions: Sneezing, itchy or watery eyes, runny nose, and skin rashes.

    •    Neurological symptoms: Brain fog, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue.

    •    Digestive issues: Nausea, bloating, and gut discomfort.

    •    Chronic inflammation: Some people develop joint pain, muscle aches, and worsening autoimmune conditions.

What Types of Mould Are Dangerous?

Harmful moulds produce mycotoxins, which can be hazardous to health. The most concerning moulds include:

    •    Stachybotrys chartarum (Black Mould): Produces toxic spores that can cause severe respiratory and neurological issues.

    •    Aspergillus: Some species can lead to lung infections, especially in those with weakened immunity.

    •    Penicillium: While some species are used in medicine, others can cause allergic reactions and respiratory problems.

    •    Cladosporium: Common in damp homes, it can trigger asthma and allergic responses.

Testing Your Home for Mould

Start with a visual inspection: check for black, green, or white patches, especially in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.

Does your home smell musty? This unmistakable damp odour often indicates mould growth.

If you suspect mould,or just want to be sure you can test your home with a kit available form the hardware store. You can also hire a professional to come to your home to test and advise.

Test Your Body for Mould Exposure

There are DIY test kits you can purchase that test urine for mycotoxins as was all nasal swab and oral swab tests. If you suspect mould exposure is significantly impacting your health, then it’s a good idea to work with a health professional specialising in environmental medicine

How to Treat Mould Exposure

Remove the source of the mould.

    •    Fix leaks and improve ventilation.

    •    Use a dehumidifier to keep humidity below 50%.

    •    Clean surfaces with natural solutions like vinegar and baking soda.  

Detox the Body

There are different protocols that can help with detoxification and restoring wellbeing after mould exposure such as:

    •    Binders: Activated charcoal and bentonite clay help remove mycotoxins from the body.

    •    Sweating: Saunas and exercise can support toxin elimination.

    •    Nutritional Support: A diet rich in antioxidants, fibre, and detox-supportive foods (like garlic and cruciferous vegetables) can aid recovery.

 Support Immune and Respiratory Health

    •    Work on restoring optimal gut health with food and probiotic therapy

    •    Use nasal rinses e.g saline to clear fungal spores.

    •    Consider nutritional supplements like vitamin C, glutathione, and omega-3s to reduce inflammation.

Consider working with a healthcare professional who specializes in environmental medicine such as an Integrative GP or Naturopath.