Molds and Mycotoxins

Here are a few good related articles. 

Here’s a good little article on molds and mycotoxins and how to find them.
https://consciousspaces.com/en-us/blogs/science/everything-you-need-to-know-about-damp-mould-and-mycotoxins

This is another great article by Dr. Jockers on molds and mycotoxins, the various sources and symptoms to watch for, as well as ways to protect yourself and family against them and detox from them. https://drjockers.com/mycotoxins/

After a brief overview this article on The Hidden Health Dangers of Micotoxins in Mold, written by Eve Henry, MD, notes that with climate changes this problem seems to be increasing. Moreover, this is particularly insightful with regards to testing and diagnostic options. https://www.rupahealth.com/post/mycotoxins-101?

We tend to think of molds and mycotoxins lurking in dark basements, however, this article from the World Health Organization has an interesting review of mycotoxins in food. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/mycotoxins#

Almonds & Oats - Who would have thought these could be harmful. They are two of the most nutritious foods on the planet. But an AI search asking if these might contain toxins, produced the following. 

"Yes, almonds can contain a few natural toxins:

1. Aflatoxins: These are produced by certain molds, such as Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, which can contaminate almonds during storage. Aflatoxins are known to be carcinogenic and can pose serious health risks if consumed in large amounts¹.
2. Amygdalin: Found in bitter almonds, amygdalin can be converted into cyanide in the body. While sweet almonds (the kind typically consumed) contain much lower levels of amygdalin, bitter almonds can be toxic if eaten in large quantities¹.
3. Hydrocyanic Acid: This is another compound related to amygdalin, which can release cyanide when metabolized. It’s more of a concern with bitter almonds¹.

Despite these potential toxins, almonds are generally safe to eat when properly processed and stored. Regulatory bodies monitor and set limits to ensure food safety." Buy from reputable sources, but you may want to soak and remove the brown skin, or buy shelled almonds, and eat in moderation.

"Yes, there are a few toxins that can be associated with oats:

1. Mycotoxins: These are toxic compounds produced by certain types of fungi. Oats can be contaminated with mycotoxins such as Fusarium toxins (T-2 and HT-2), deoxynivalenol (DON), and zearalenone (ZEA)¹. These toxins can pose health risks if consumed in large amounts.
2. Ochratoxin A (OTA): This is another mycotoxin that can be found in oat-based products. OTA has been linked to kidney cancer in animal studies².
3. Chlormequat: This is a plant growth regulator that has been found in some oat products. Although not approved for use on edible crops in the U.S., it is allowed in imported foods. Studies suggest it may have reproductive and developmental toxicity concerns³.

While these toxins can be present, it’s important to note that regulatory bodies monitor and set limits to ensure food safety. If you have concerns, opting for organic oats might reduce exposure to some of these chemicals³." See this news article related to common oat products. 

It’s important to note that molds can exacerbate and compound almost any other physical problem, as it overburdens the human immune system. 

The primary recommendation, if you have been exposed to mold is to avoid any contact, and make sure it or you are cleared from that environment. 

See also The End of Alzheimer’s Program by Dale Bredesen, MD. Check out the references to mycotoxins in the index.