How Myotoxins Affect Our Gut And Overall Sypmtoms

Everyone is different, but for some people, mold symptoms can be triggered or worsened by the foods we eat. This is related to the buildup of histamines and oxalates in the body. When we are exposed to mold, our cells produce inflammatory substances to combat the toxins, leading to inflammation (eventually chronic if untreated). It’s recognized that mold exposure can lead to a range of symptoms, particularly respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and, in some cases, chronic fatigue. Some individuals with mold sensitivities may experience heightened symptoms when consuming certain foods, especially if those foods contain histamines or other compounds that can provoke an immune response.

For healthy individuals, eating a reasonable amount of foods that may be hard to digest or contain natural toxins—such as tomatoes (which contain toxic alkaloids) or gluten—usually poses no significant issues because their bodies can effectively filter out these toxins. However, someone with an autoimmune disease or myotoxicity* often has dysfunctional cells that are continually fighting what they perceive as an infection (which could be actual mold in their system). This ongoing battle can result in damage to organs, such as the small intestine, leading to conditions like Crohn's disease or IBS.

Every food contains varying levels of histamines** (which can cause inflammation and can trigger allergic-like reactions in sensitive individuals.), oxalates*** (crystal-shaped molecules that affect our body’s filtration), or other substances that are generally harmless in small doses. However, if your body is already overloaded with histamines or oxalates from your diet or mold exposure, it can result in an overwhelming response where the body "dumps" these molecules, wreaking havoc and potentially resulting in symptoms such as exhaustion, brain fog, lack of motivation, and various gastric and skin problems.

While vitamin deficiencies and genetic factors can contribute to an overall sense of unwellness, food can often be a controllable factor that significantly influences our health. Many times, eliminating foods that trigger our symptoms can lead to temporary relief. However, after a few weeks, you might notice fatigue and a return of symptoms, as merely cutting out certain foods isn’t enough for complete healing. It's important to consider that you may also miss out on essential vitamins or fiber from the foods you avoid. Typically, issues with gut health and food intolerances indicate an underlying problem.

The good news is that temporarily eliminating problematic foods and maintaining a food diary can help you identify your specific triggers and better understand your body’s reactions. Nevertheless, individual responses can vary widely, so it's essential for anyone dealing with these issues to work with healthcare professionals to tailor their diets and make informed choices based on their unique situations.

Good luck on your journey toward better health!

Glossary

*Mycotoxins are naturally occurring toxins produced by certain molds (fungi) and can be found in food

**Histamine is a naturally occurring chemical in the body that is involved in various physiological processes, including the immune response, regulation of stomach acid, and functioning of the nervous system. It plays a crucial role in allergic reactions by causing symptoms such as itching, swelling, and increased mucus production when the body reacts to allergens. Histamine is also found in certain foods and can affect individuals differently, especially those with sensitivities or allergies.

***Oxalate is a naturally occurring substance in many plants that some individuals may be sensitive to, particularly with a predisposed condition like kidney stones or specific gastrointestinal issues