The Invisible Threat: Mold, Mycotoxins, and the Immune System

Mold is a common household nuisance. Often lurking in damp and dark corners, hidden under cabinets or behind walls, it silently spreads its microscopic spores. While many people may not realize the hidden dangers mold presents, its presence can wreak havoc on the immune system. Here we will explore the relationship between mold, mycotoxins, and the immune system, shedding light on how these hidden intruders can impact our health.

The Mold Menace

Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in moist environments, making homes, offices, and other indoor spaces fertile breeding grounds. Often found in areas with water damage or high humidity, it releases tiny spores into the air that can be inhaled, leading to various health concerns. Mold is common in homes and workplaces and is often overlooked as the reason for health concerns.

The Immune System: Our Guardian

The immune system, our body's natural defense mechanism, is designed to protect us from invading pathogens like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It's a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs working together to identify and eliminate threats to our well-being. However, when faced with chronic mold exposure, this vigilant system can become overwhelmed.

Mold, Mycotoxins, and Immune Dysfunction

Mold doesn't just affect our homes; it can also undermine our immune defenses. Here's how:

1. Inflammatory Response: When mold spores and mycotoxins enter the body, they trigger an immune response. The immune system releases inflammatory chemicals to combat these invaders. Chronic mold exposure can lead to prolonged inflammation, which can weaken the immune system's ability to fight other threats.

2. Immunosuppression: Mycotoxins produced by mold can directly suppress the immune system's functioning. They inhibit the body's ability to produce antibodies and compromise its capacity to fend off infections.

3. Allergic Reactions: Mold exposure can provoke allergies in susceptible individuals. The immune system identifies mold as a threat and releases antibodies, causing symptoms like sneezing, itching, and congestion.

4. Asthma Exacerbation: For those with asthma, mold exposure can exacerbate their condition (and may even be the cause). The immune system's hyperactive response can lead to bronchoconstriction, making it difficult to breathe.

5. Infection Susceptibility: A weakened immune system can leave you vulnerable to other infections. As your immune system redirects its resources to deal with mold, it may neglect its vigilance against other pathogens.

Mycotoxins and Their Impact

Mycotoxins are toxic compounds produced by molds. They are particularly harmful to the immune system. A few noteworthy mycotoxins include:

1. Aflatoxins: Produced by Aspergillus species, aflatoxins can damage the liver and suppress the immune system.

2. Ochratoxin A: Produced by Aspergillus and Penicillium and is also commonly found in foods like cereals and coffee, this mycotoxin is immunosuppressive and nephrotoxic.

3. Trichothecenes: Produced by various molds, these mycotoxins can trigger severe immune responses, causing fever, vomiting, and diarrhea.

All of these molds can also produce symptoms like allergies, anxiety, depression, fatigue, icepick-like head pain, joint pains, and more!

Protecting Your Immune System

Preventing mold growth in your home is crucial for maintaining a robust immune system. Here are some steps you can take:

1. Control Moisture: Address any leaks, water damage, or dampness promptly. Mold requires moisture to thrive.

2. Ventilation: Ensure good ventilation in bathrooms, kitchens, and basements to reduce humidity levels.

3. Regular Cleaning: Regularly clean and vacuum your living spaces, using mold-inhibiting products where necessary.

4. Remove Mold: If you spot mold growth, take immediate action to remove it. If it's extensive, consider professional remediation.

5. Monitor Indoor Humidity: Use dehumidifiers to keep indoor humidity levels in check, ideally between 35-50%.

Mold and mycotoxins may be hidden dangers lurking in our homes, but understanding their impact on the immune system is crucial. Chronic mold exposure can lead to inflammation, chronic symptoms, and immunosuppression, making our bodies more susceptible to a range of health issues. Taking steps to prevent mold growth and address it promptly can help safeguard our immune system and overall well-being. Remember, a healthy home supports a healthy immune system, ready to protect you from the challenges of daily life.

Test Your Home and Your Body for Mold

• To evaluate mold in your environment:

  • ERMI (for severity) - use code EB 2338 for 10% off

  • Immunolytics (for location within the home)

• If you want to evaluate the levels in you:

  • MycoToxins Test (you can order from the link or pick up a kit for this urine test in our office)
    
    

Clean Your Air

Air quality is important in the home and workplace, here are the units we recommend.

• High Tech Air Reactor (cleanses the air, a step up from filtration. Our doctors have the 101 model in their home)

  • select Drs. George and Michelle Stanton as your “Salesperson”

• Austin Air (a high-performing filter)

If you are stuck and need help, consider working with one of our doctors at Prairie Sage to help assist you in your journey!

The Key to Optimum Living: Sleep

In our fast-paced, modern world, we often prioritize work, socializing, and entertainment over something that is crucial to our well-being: sleep.

An essential biological process to life itself, sleep allows our bodies and minds to rest, rejuvenate, and function optimally. Between kids, careers, housework, and (dare we say it?) relaxation time, sleep can take a back burner on our priority list. What some may not realize is that overlooking this crucial part of routine may be the missing link to experiencing optimal health! Let’s explore some important sleep habits to help you live your optimal life!

The Importance of Sleep:

Sleep is not merely a time of inactivity; it is a complex and vital process that affects every aspect of our physical and mental health. During sleep, our bodies repair tissues, consolidate memories, drain waste products from the brain, and regulate hormonal functions. It is the foundation upon which our cognitive abilities, emotional balance, and physical stamina are built.

Detriments from Lack of Sleep:

1. Impaired Cognitive Function: Sleep deprivation can significantly impair cognitive function  including memory, attention, reaction time and decision-making. This can lead to reduced productivity and an increased risk of accidents.

2. Mood Disorders: Lack of sleep is closely linked to mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. Chronic sleep deprivation can exacerbate existing mental health conditions and contribute to emotional instability. We have all felt this way when we’ve had multiple days of missed sleep – irritability and mood swings are high, then reduced once we get some good shut-eye.

3. Weakened Immune System: Sleep plays a vital role in bolstering the immune system. Inadequate sleep can weaken the body’s defenses, making us more susceptible to infections and illnesses. This is also the time the glymphatic system (the brain’s lymphatic system) is working in high gear to drain and restore the brain!

4. Weight Gain and Obesity: Poor sleep disrupts the balance of hunger hormones, leading to increased appetite and cravings for unhealthy foods. This can contribute to weight gain and obesity over time. Do you ever feel like you want those high-carb snacks when you’re extra tired? This is from a physiological response, the body trying to get quick energy anywhere it can.

5. Cardiovascular Health: Chronic sleep deprivation has been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension and heart disease.

Best Ways to Optimize Sleep:

1. Establish a Consistent Sleep Schedule: Try to go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on weekends. This helps regulate the body's internal clock and improves sleep quality.

2. Create a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: Engage in calming activities before bedtime, such as reading, meditating, or taking a warm bath. Avoid stimulating activities and electronic devices that emit blue light, as they can interfere with melatonin production. Investing in blue light blocking glasses to wear while looking at screens can be helpful in regulating your sleep hormones as well (and wearing throughout the day - not just in the evening!). F.lux is another helpful program to reduce blue light emitted from devices.

3. Create a Sleep-Friendly Environment: Make your bedroom a comfortable and sleep-conducive environment. Keep it cool, dark, and quiet to promote relaxation and uninterrupted rest. Even a tiny amount of light can disrupt sleep, so try covering up all lights, or sleep with a sleep mask.

4. Limit Caffeine and Alcohol Intake: Caffeine and alcohol can disrupt sleep patterns and reduce sleep quality. Limit their consumption, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime, but even in the earlier hours. Those who “need” caffeine the most should have it the least! This is because of the disruption it has on the brain-adrenal connection.

5. Exercise Regularly: Regular physical activity can improve sleep quality. However, avoid intense exercise close to bedtime, as it may make it harder to fall asleep.

6. Watch Your Diet: Avoid heavy, spicy, or large meals close to bedtime, as they may cause discomfort and disrupt sleep. Opt for light, sleep-promoting snacks if necessary. Routine here is a good idea as well. Eat your last meal at the same time, allowing enough time for your food to digest before going to bed.

7. Manage Stress: Practice stress-reduction techniques, such as deep breathing, yoga, or mindfulness meditation, to help ease your mind before bedtime. We like Calming Crossovers and Tapping with intentional breath practices before bed. Try 4-7-8 breathing (in for 4 seconds, hold it for 7, then exhale for 8 seconds). Do this rhythm for a few minutes to allow your mind and body to relax into a sleep-ready state.

Sleep is the foundation of a healthy and fulfilling life. Prioritizing sleep and implementing strategies to optimize it can significantly improve our overall well-being, cognitive abilities, and emotional balance. Remember, a well-rested mind and body are better equipped to face life's challenges and enjoy its wonders. So, let's prioritize sleep and unlock the key to optimum living!

Some additional tools to help promote restful sleep for the long term are:

• Supplements such as Liposomal Melatonin, which delivers a high quality of melatonin through the skin

• Adding castor oil packs to your evening routine (see instructions here)

• Utilizing binders in the evening since the body detoxes primarily during sleep

• Addressing hidden infections like parasites with a thorough protocol may be necessary to resolve your sleep issues for good

Do you need more support along your health journey? Call our office to schedule with one of our doctors or health coach to start working toward your optimized health!

Ginger Tea for an Immune Boost

Ginger Root Tea

 Ginger root has long been used as an immune-boosting food. Here, we utilize it in a warming and healing tea. Note: raw ginger root can be found in the produce section at the grocery store.

Ingredients:

• 2 inches of raw ginger root

• 2 cups filtered water

• 1 Tbsp local honey (for an added boost to the immune system)

• Optional: Juice of ½ lime or lemon (about 1 Tbsp)

• 1 super-fun mug to brighten your day

Instructions:

• Peel ginger and slice into thin slices.

• Boil ginger in the water for 10-20 minutes (boil longer or add more slices for a stronger tea).

• Remove from heat and add the honey and lemon or lime juice to taste.

• Enjoy several cups a day, sipping slowly throughout the day. Cheers to your health!

Read more on ginger’s immune-boosting effects:

• Fresh ginger’s anti-viral action against HRSV:

  • https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23123794/?from_term=ginger+anti-viral&from_pos=1

• Anti-viral, Anti-bacterial, and other bioactivities of ginger:

  • https:/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6616534/

Winter is coming

With the rapid changing of temperature outside, the ever popular "Flu Season" is upon us. You may or may not have heard the recent buzz, but I challenge you to consider this:

Let's break down this little sticky note with a big message. The "flu" is an infection, we can get it at anytime. College students may know this scenario well, for example. After a long week of finals an otherwise healthy 20-something falls ill over their break from school, which only half the time falls during classic "flu" season time. Why do we still get sick in the summer? It's because an infection causes the flu, not a time of year.

We are most susceptible to the flu during the colder months. Why? 

A lot of factors gather together as we gather with our families to create the perfect sniffly, scratchy-throat, congested, sore-all-over storm.

Our exposure to sunlight dramatically decreases come fall/winter. The sun is out for shorter periods of time, and combining that with wanting to be indoors to avoid the cold, our opportunity for sunlight to create Vitamin D in us plummets. (See our post about the importance of Vitamin D to the immune system.) Water intake also decreases since we don't feel as hot and sweaty, we don't seem to feel as thirsty.

Then we have increased sugar intake. Is it enough to just mention Thanksgiving dinner (ahem, dessert), Pumpkin Spice Lattes, office holiday parties, ginger bread men, candy canes, late night Christmas cookies... I could go on and on. Our intake of sugar sky-rockets during the holiday season compared to our already-high levels. Sugar is a pro-inflammatory substance that attacks the body and keeps the immune system fighting it rather than the important things (like an infection from a flu-bug).

The final piece of our sugary-sweet, flu-inducing pie is the amount of stress we are under during the holidays. Whether it's from family, money-induced, decreased sleep, or travel, stress attacks our immune system as hard as anything else. Again, when the body is busy fighting inflammation from foods we eat or elevated stress levels, it is too tired to fight anything else off.

I hope this puts together a complete picture of why the flu is more or less self induced, from us not properly fortifying our own immune systems. Learn how our doctors and the services we offer can help you fight the flu this year and enjoy the season, not your tissue-covered bed!

Ain't no sunshine

- Vitamin D and how you can feel better this winter -

The Winter Blues

Have you heard the term "winter blues"? Maybe you have heard it by it's more clinical name, Seasonal Affect Disorder (appropriately abbreviated to "SAD").

There are folks who tend to become more depressed as the colder months set it. Light therapy is a common recommendation (check out our infrared sauna), as well as traditional psychotherapy and medications. 

A Potential - and underutilized - Solution

Let me throw something out there for you though. In the spring, summer, and even autumn months, the weather is nice, it's lighter longer, and we are in general exposed to the sun more.  Sun exposure kicks off the Vitamin D synthesis process in our body. We even set up a small store of extra Vitamin D that we can use later in the year when we need it (because our bodies are geniuses!). 

Then, as the cold and dark set in, we use up our excess stores and can often become deficient in this vitamin. Why is it so important -- and why do we end up feeling so crummy when we are low on it?

Vitamin D is a precursor to a lot of processes in the body -- one important process is the synthesis (building) of some hormones -- hormones that give us energy, strength, help us build muscle and strengthen our bones.

Make Vitamin D work for you

There are a few considerations when taking Vitamin D to make sure you are getting all the benefits. 

1) Get it from a quality source:  All supplements are not created equally. If you are looking for a "bargain", consider that your health is an investment and not an expense. Is this really an area you want to be cutting corners? The quality of your supplements will determine their absorbability and utilization in your body. In other words, get a good one and your body will actually use it. Otherwise, you'll be paying for expensive urine.

2) Take with food: Vitamin D is a fat-soluble compound. All that means is it needs some fat from your food to grab onto to travel around in the body  so it can get to where it needs to go.

3) Get the right form: Not all supplements from all companies are made with the correct scientific processes in mind. The compound needs to be in the correct form (think of all those complex structures you learned about in chemistry) to be utilized.

Try it for yourself

If this sounds like something you could benefit from (experts are divided on the subject, stating anywhere from 10-40% of Americans are Vit D deficient), contact our office. We only carry supplements from companies we trust will provide quality products. There is also an option to do a simple blood lab test to determine the levels of Vitamin D in your blood. 

Don't be SAD this winter!

(If you are experiencing depression, please consult a physician. This post is intended to be informative and not a substitute for clinical decision making and diagnosis.)