Mold & Toxin Binding
Mold and mycotoxins can be responsible for a whole host of problems — what is ‘toxin binding’ and how can it help?
In the past, we’ve discussed how important it can be to monitor mold growth in your home and work places. But how do you address growth within your own body? Mold spores are small and hard to catch. In the same way, the mycotoxins produced by those spores are even tinier, hard to know when we’re exposed to them, and difficult to begin clearing from the body.
While many food-borne molds can be broken down and neutralized by our stomach acid, mycotoxins can be especially tricky if left unaddressed. Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and diarrhea, headache, fever, and fatigue can all fall under the umbrella of mycotoxin exposure. These toxins can also affect the central nervous system and cause headaches, dizziness, and other symptoms.
Binders and
Certain clays and charcoal can be used as little filters to catch as many mycotoxins as possible. We call these “binders.” These metaphorical tiny sponges get to work quickly and start absorbing (binding to) harmful substances, like mycotoxins from mold. Much like using a fogger after mold remediation, binders can provide an added layer of support to your system, and should be used with some guidance.
Of the different binders to consider, our recommendations are zeolite clay, activated charcoal, and pectasol-C.
Zeolite clay and Pectasol-C have unique structures that allow mycotoxins to be attracted and trapped by the binders, just like a magnet. Once the binder has adhered itself to the toxin, the toxin is prevented from being re-absorbed back into your bloodstream. Instead, it’s carried out of the body like all other waste.
Activated charcoal works in a similar way: its porous structure acts like a sponge, absorbing toxins and unwanted chemicals as it passes through the digestive system. Once bound to the undesired toxins, the charcoal also removes them from your body through your stool. (This is a key reminder — when you’re healing, you must be pooping!)
When you’re healing
Our bodies do their best to regulate and remove toxins on their own. But by using supplemental binders, you're giving your body extra help in ridding itself of mold mycotoxins lingering in your system.
When you’re healing from mold and mycotoxins, you need to keep these two things in mind:
Mold must be removed from your environment
Whether it’s removing spoiled food from the pantry or finally addressing that damp basement wall, removing the offending mold is always step one. At Lake Pointe, we’re here to help every step of the way, from internal mold exposure testing (Vibrant Wellness) to on-site air quality and mold inspection for your home or workplace.
Use binders as part of your healing plan
Armed with an array of effective and science-backed toxin binder supplements, our doctors are your first stop on the way to feeling better. Call to book a complimentary consult or schedule your functional medicine consult today!