Mycotoxin (Mold)

What are Mycotoxin Tests?

Mycotoxin tests use advanced diagnostic tools to detect and measure the presence of mycotoxins in the body. Mycotoxins are toxic compounds produced by certain types of mold that can colonize the body and intestinal tract. These toxins can have harmful effects on health, contributing to a wide range of chronic symptoms and illnesses.

 

Why Test for Mycotoxins?

Exposure to mold can occur through inhalation of mold spores and/or contaminated food. It’s important to note that while these initial exposures may have occurred years ago, the mold (and the mycotoxins it produces) can remain harboured in the body for decades.

Mycotoxins can negatively impact various body systems, including:

  • Digestive System: Leading to persistent irritable bowel symptoms, including SIBO, that often fail to improve with conventional or first line treatments.
  • Respiratory System: Leading to allergies, chronic sinus conditions, and other lung-related issues.
  • Skin Health: Causing unexplained rashes, hives, eczema, or rosacea.
  • Immune System: Weakening the body’s defences, making it more susceptible to infections or intestinal bacterial/fungal overgrowth (SIBO included).
  • Neurological System: Causing brain fog, chronic fatigue, headaches, and other cognitive challenges. 
  • Detoxification Pathways: Overloading the liver and kidneys, impairing the body’s ability to eliminate toxins.

 

Who Should Consider Mycotoxin Tests?

Mycotoxin testing is recommended for individuals with unexplained chronic symptoms and is particularly valuable for those who have not experienced improvement with other naturopathic/functional medicine treatments or whose stool and other diagnostic tests have yielded unremarkable results.

Additionally, individuals who have lived or worked in mold prone environments, such as water damaged buildings, may benefit from this test.

 

How Do Mycotoxin Tests Work?

Mycotoxin testing uses advanced technology to analyze a urine sample for a wide range of mycotoxins. This non-invasive testing method ensures accurate detection of even low levels of exposure. 

The test provides detailed insights into:

  • The specific types of mycotoxins present in the body

  • The severity of the exposure

  • Patterns of exposure that may indicate environmental or dietary sources

It also provides actionable data to create a personalized treatment plan.

 

What to Expect After Testing

Once your mycotoxin test results are available, a detailed consultation will help you understand the findings and outline the next steps. Treatment plans may include:

  • Addressing environmental mold exposure

  • Enhancing detoxification pathways through supplements and dietary changes

  • Supporting immune and gut health

  • Reducing inflammation and oxidative stress

  • Eradicating intestinal mold overgrowth

 

Ready to Take the Next Step?

As a functional and naturopathic medicine practitioner, I specialize in helping individuals uncover and address the root causes of their health challenges. Mycotoxin tests are an integral part of my comprehensive health assessment services, providing the data needed to overcome your chronic health concerns.

 

If you’re experiencing chronic, unexplained symptoms and suspect past mold exposure, schedule a consultation with Dr. Brass to learn more.