Understanding Mold Toxicity: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Mold often goes unrecognized, leading to chronic health problems. In this article, I will delve into the symptoms of mold exposure, how to diagnose it, and the available treatment options; understanding mold toxicity is essential for anyone who suspects they may be affected. This is my second article about mold toxicity, as I believe it is a serious health issue that can affect individuals in various ways.  Feel free to have a glance back at the other article and podcast here: Episode 34 - How To Find And Get Rid Of Mold Episode 10 - Mold And Radon Gas Can Be Making You Sick

Common Symptoms of Mold Exposure

I recently interviewed Dr Terri Fox, an MD who specializes in mold. You can listen to the podcast here:  Episode 47 -  How To Heal From Mold Exposure

This is what I learned:

Identifying mold toxicity can be challenging, as symptoms often overlap with other health conditions. Here are five signs that may indicate mold exposure:

• Fatigue: Persistent tiredness that doesn't improve with rest can be a significant symptom.
• Brain Fog: Cognitive dysfunction, including difficulty concentrating and memory issues, is commonly reported.
• Weight Fluctuations: Rapid weight gain or loss without an apparent reason can be linked to mold exposure.
• Neurological Symptoms: Unusual sensations such as numbness, tingling, weakness, and involuntary muscle movements may occur.
• Emotional Disturbances: Increased anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts can arise, particularly in children.

Children and Mold Exposure

In children, symptoms may manifest differently. They might experience anxiety, sleep disturbances, and mood changes rather than the physical symptoms adults typically report. The neurological impact of mold toxins can lead to conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and tics.

Understanding the Biotoxin Illness

Mold exposure can trigger biotoxin illnesses, including conditions like Lyme disease and other chronic inflammatory responses. If someone has multiple "trash can diagnoses," such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), fibromyalgia, or chronic fatigue syndrome, they might be suffering from a biotoxin illness related to mold or Lyme disease.

How to Diagnose Mold Toxicity

Diagnosis of mold toxicity involves thoroughly evaluating symptoms and potential exposure history. Here are some key steps in the diagnostic process:

• Visual Contrast Study: This online test assesses cognitive function by presenting visual patterns. Those with mold toxicity often struggle to see the patterns.
• HERE is a link to a free test that gives a positive or negative answer.
• HERE is a link to a paid-for test that goes into more detail. 
• Urinary Mycotoxin Test: A urine test can identify the presence of mold toxins in the body, indicating mold exposure.
• Environmental Testing: Assessing the home environment for mold presence is crucial. This may involve hiring a professional for thorough testing.

Understanding Exposure Types

It's important to differentiate between chronic and acute mold exposure. A urinary test may not specify the duration of exposure but can indicate the presence of toxic molds. For example, while outdoor molds are generally non-pathogenic, indoor molds can produce harmful mycotoxins.

Treatment Strategies for Mold Toxicity

Treatment for mold toxicity typically follows a two-phase approach:

Phase 1: Detoxification

The first phase focuses on detoxifying the body from mold toxins. This may include:

• Binders: Substances like activated charcoal or bentonite clay help bind mycotoxins in the gastrointestinal tract, allowing for their elimination.
• Glutathione: This antioxidant supports the body's detoxification processes.
• Supportive Therapies: Infrared saunas and detox baths can facilitate toxin removal through sweating.

Phase 2: Eradication

Once the body is detoxified, the second phase involves targeting any mold colonizing. This often includes:

• Antifungal Medications: Prescription antifungals are used to eliminate mold present in the system.
• Biofilm Disruption: Tactics to break down biofilms that protect mold colonies from treatment.

Environmental Considerations

Addressing mold toxicity also involves remediating the living environment. Here are key steps to consider:

• Identify and Remove Mold Sources: Any wet materials should be removed from the home.
• Professional Remediation: Hiring experts for mold removal ensures that spores are contained and adequately managed during the process.
• Regular Cleaning: Frequent cleaning with antifungal agents can help maintain a mold-free environment.

The Role of Nutrition

Diet can play a role in managing mold toxicity. An anti-inflammatory diet can help reduce the overall burden on the body, but Dr Fox felt the remediation above should be done before addressing your diet. Certain foods should be limited, such as:

• Nuts and berries, which can contain mycotoxins.
• Processed foods that may exacerbate inflammation.

Healthy Dietary Choices

Focusing on whole foods, including fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins, can support healing and recovery. Maintaining a balanced diet while managing mold exposure is crucial.

Emotional and Psychological Effects

Mold exposure can lead to emotional disturbances, including anxiety and depression. The neurotoxic effects of mycotoxins can disrupt normal brain function, leading to these mental health challenges. Children are particularly vulnerable, as they may exhibit increased behavioral issues and emotional instability. Identifying and addressing mold exposure is essential for their mental well-being.

Conclusion

Understanding mold toxicity is critical for anyone experiencing unexplained health issues. With proper diagnosis and treatment, individuals can recover from mold exposure and improve their quality of life. If you suspect you have been exposed to mold, consider seeking out healthcare professionals familiar with mold-related illnesses. Remember, you are not alone in this journey; effective treatment options are available. Don't hesitate to reach out for support and guidance. To find out more about the services Dr Terri Fox has, please visit her website here: https://boulderholistic.com/meet-our-team/

Beating Morton’s Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a painful condition affecting football; it often arises from nerve compression between the toes. Manual therapy, including osteopathy,  can be an effective, non-invasive approach to managing symptoms, offering relief by reducing pressure on the nerve and decreasing healing time. This article is based on a self-help YouTube video I filmed live with an online client. After doing these exercises for a few weeks, her foot completely recovered.  If you would like to follow the video, please click here.  

What is Morton's Neuroma?

Morton's neuroma occurs when the nerve between the toes becomes irritated, often due to tight footwear, repetitive stress, or biomechanical imbalances. Symptoms include:

• Burning or shooting pain in the ball of the foot.
• Tingling or numbness in the toes.
• A sensation of a pebble under the foot.

After removing the initial cause—many times a change in footwear or a sudden increase in activity—use manual therapy to address the symptoms by improving the structural alignment of the foot and reducing soft tissue tension.

Manual Therapy Techniques for Morton's Neuroma

Soft Tissue Massage 

Gentle massage around the affected area can help release tension and improve circulation:

• Technique: Use your thumbs to apply circular pressure to the ball of the foot and the spaces between the toes. Work between each toe to increase the space between the bones in your mid foot, called metatarsals. 
• Benefit: Relieves tightness in the plantar fascia and surrounding tissues, reducing pressure on the nerve.  

 

Metatarsal Mobilization

Mobilizing the metatarsal bones can relieve compression of the nerve

• Technique: Gently grasp the foot and move the metatarsal heads apart using a spreading motion.
• Benefit: Creates space around the nerve, alleviating irritation.

 

Toe Stretching and Alignment

Stretching the toes helps reduce tension and improve alignment:

• Technique: Hold the toes and gently pull them apart and backward to stretch the tissues.
• Benefit: Reduces strain on the nerve and improves flexibility.

 

Myofascial Release

Targeting the connective tissue can relieve deep-seated tension:

• Technique: Apply slow, sustained pressure along the foot arch using your fingers or a massage ball.
• Benefit: Releases tight fascia, improving overall foot mobility.

 

Self-Care Tips to Enhance Manual Therapy

1. Footwear Choices: Wear shoes with a wide toe box and adequate arch support to reduce compression on the nerve. I like vivobarefoot shoes and Birchbury. I especially like Birchbury because their shoes look 'normal', and I've worked with their owner, so I know the passion that goes into their shoes. 
2. Stretching Routine: Incorporate daily stretches for the calves, arches, and toes to maintain flexibility.
3. Use of Insoles: Orthotic inserts can help redistribute pressure away from the neuroma. This is best done with the supervision of a foot specialist.  Don't fall for expensive rigid insoles, though; all you need is an insole that lifts the ball of your foot and helps your foot expand.
4. Cold Therapy: Apply ice packs after manual therapy to reduce inflammation.

Manual therapy is a powerful tool in managing Morton's neuroma. Soft tissue massage, metatarsal mobilization, and myofascial release can relieve pain and improve foot function. Combine these with proper footwear and regular stretching for lasting relief. By addressing the root causes of nerve compression, you can take significant steps toward a pain-free life.

Unlocking the Power of Omega-3s for Health and Longevity

Omega-3 fatty acids have gained recognition for their significant role in promoting overall health and longevity. This guide is based on a recent conversation I had with Dr. Bill Harris, one of the world's foremost researchers of Omega-3 Oils. In it, we will explore what omega-3s are, their benefits, how to incorporate them into your diet, and how to test your omega-3 levels. Whether you're a health enthusiast or just beginning your journey into nutrition, understanding omega-3s can lead to better health outcomes.

Understanding Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that the body cannot produce on its own, meaning they must be obtained through diet. They are a type of polyunsaturated fat which includes three primary types:

• Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA): Found in plant sources like flaxseeds and walnuts.
• Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA): Primarily found in fish and seafood.
• Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA): Also found in fish, crucial for brain health.

The Importance of Omega-3s

Research indicates that higher levels of omega-3s in the diet correlate with better health outcomes. Individuals who maintain a diet rich in omega-3s often experience:

• Lower risk of heart disease
• Reduced inflammation
• Improved brain function and cognitive health
• Decreased risk of certain cancers

Studies have shown that populations with higher omega-3 levels tend to have lower rates of chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and even dementia.

Sources of Omega-3 Fatty Acids

To ensure adequate intake of omega-3s, it's essential to incorporate various sources into your diet. Here are the best sources of omega-3s: Animal Sources

1. Fatty Fish: Salmon, mackerel, sardines, and herring are rich in EPA and DHA.
2. Fish Oil Supplements: Often derived from sardines and anchovies, these supplements provide concentrated doses of omega-3s.
3. Cod Liver Oil: A potent source of omega-3s and vitamin D.

Plant Sources

1. Flaxseeds: Ground flaxseeds are a great source of ALA -but the conversion to EPA and DHA in humans could be more efficient.
2. Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds are packed with ALA. 
3. Walnuts: A delicious way to add omega-3s to your diet.
4. Algal Oil: A vegan source of DHA derived from algae.

Recommended Omega-3 Intake

The recommended daily intake of omega-3 varies based on individual health needs and dietary preferences. General guidelines suggest:

• For general health: 250-500 mg of combined EPA and DHA daily.
• For those with heart disease: 1000 mg or more of EPA and DHA daily - this is what I aim for.

Testing Omega-3 Levels

Understanding your omega-3 levels is crucial for optimizing health. Bill helped develop The Omega-3 Index, which measures the percentage of EPA and DHA in red blood cell membranes and is a reliable indicator of omega-3 status. Here's how it works:

1. Order a Test: You can order an omega-3 index test online from companies like Omega Quant.
2. Sample Collection: A drop of blood is collected on a specially treated card (this is important; some companies, like a well-known MLM don't treat their cards, meaning the index will always be low)
3. Send the Sample: Mail the sample back to the lab for analysis.
4. Receive Results: Within a few days, you will receive your Omega-3 Index results

Interpreting Your Omega-3 Index

Understanding your Omega-3 Index can help guide dietary and supplement choices:

• Below 4%: Indicates a low intake of omega-3s; consider increasing fish consumption or supplementation.
• 4-8%: Indicates a moderate intake; aim for optimal levels.
• Above 8%: Indicates optimal intake; maintain your current diet.

Potential Concerns and Considerations

While omega-3s are generally safe, some considerations include:

• Contaminants: Fish can accumulate heavy metals like mercury. Choosing high-quality fish oil supplements can mitigate this risk, but Dr. Harris thinks the benefits of Omega oil outweigh the possible problems of heavy metals in fish. We didn't get into detail on this, but I've heard him say elsewhere that things like mercury in fish aren't the problem we think it is.
• Oxidation: Omega-3 oils can oxidize, so it's essential to store them properly and choose reputable brands; once capsulated, they don't oxidize, so again, Dr. Harris wasn't too worried about this.

Incorporating omega-3 fatty acids into your diet can significantly impact your health and well-being. Whether through dietary sources or supplements, ensuring adequate omega-3 intake is vital for long-term health. Regular testing can help you stay informed about your omega-3 status and make necessary adjustments. By prioritizing omega-3s, you can take proactive steps toward a healthier, longer life. For more information, visit Omega Quant or consult with a healthcare professional.

Unlocking the Secrets of Somatic Movement: A Journey to Pain-Free Living

Have you heard of somatic movement? It's gaining popularity in the fitness and wellness world, with celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Gisele Bündchen, and Naomi Watts embracing this mindful way of moving. But despite its recent rise in fame, the somatic movement has deep roots and has been evolving for decades. When I was around 12, I noticed one of my teachers always moved with an effortless grace. Curious, I jokingly asked if he was sneaking up on students to catch them misbehaving. He laughed and explained that he used to have chronic back pain but had overcome it through the Alexander Technique. This method, pioneered by Frederick Matthias Alexander, an Australian actor, originated from his discovery that better posture improved his voice projection. Eventually, Alexander began teaching others how to relieve pain and even coached prominent figures, including President Franklin D. Roosevelt, in public speaking. Alexander's teachings inspired Moshe Feldenkrais, who expanded on this work to develop the Feldenkrais Method. Feldenkrais's unique approach to movement later influenced Dr. Thomas Hanna, a neurologist who revolutionized the field by addressing how habitual neural patterns create chronic tension and pain. Hanna's work birthed Somatic Education, a system designed to "reset" the nervous system and restore muscles to their natural resting state.

Understanding the Science: How Somatic Movement Works

At its core, somatic movement addresses the neural patterns that govern muscle tension. Dr. Hanna introduced the concept of Sensory Motor Amnesia (SMA), a condition where the body "forgets" how to relax certain muscles due to subconscious adaptations. He identified three primary reflexes contributing to SMA:

• The Landau Reflex (Green Light Response): This reflex, emerging in toddlers, activates the extensor muscles of the back to propel the body forward. When overused, it leads to chronic tension, creating the "sway-back" posture seen in many adults.

• The Startle Reflex (Red Light Response): Triggered by stress or perceived danger, this reflex rounds the shoulders and contracts the body inward to protect vital organs. If sustained, it results in a hunched posture.

• The Trauma Reflex: The body adopts compensatory postures to avoid pain following physical injuries. Even after healing, these postures can persist, causing imbalances and discomfort.

Why Does It Work?

Hanna's exercises focus on pandiculations—slow, mindful movements involving full contraction followed by relaxation. These movements mimic the natural stretching patterns of animals like cats and dogs, which "reset" their muscles dozens of times a day. Research suggests these movements recalibrate the nervous system, particularly the alpha-gamma co-activation loop, restoring proper muscle tone.

My Experience with Somatic Education

Intrigued, I attended a three-day somatic workshop led by Martha Peterson, a renowned practitioner in the field. Unlike traditional exercises, somatic movements are slow and deliberate, often performed lying down to eliminate balance-related compensations. On the final day, we applied our newfound skills on real clients. My client was someone I had previously treated with osteopathy but with limited success. Using somatic techniques, I guided her through exercises to address her retained reflexes. Her posture improved significantly in just one session than after four osteopathic treatments. Moreover, she left equipped with exercises to continue her progress at home—a powerful, self-sustaining approach to healing.

Final Thoughts

Somatic movement has opened my eyes to the incredible potential of re-educating the nervous system. It's a transformative tool, especially for those with chronic pain or "hard-to-treat" cases. If you're curious to try it I would recommend following this video, where I show a simple movement that can really help relieve back pain. This is one of the core movements I use in my Back Pain Correction Protocol and my Scoliosis Online Program to help people calm an irritated back so we can proceed with adding mobility and strength. If you have any questions or want to know more, Contact Us and I'd be happy to chat.