By Dr. Lisa Ballehr
Do you have a damp, musty-smelling basement? Have you experienced water damage in your home? If so, there’s a good chance that mold is growing—and it could be affecting your health.
Even if you live in a dry climate, you’re not in the clear. Arizona ranks among the top six states with the worst mold problems. Mold and its toxic byproducts, mycotoxins, exist even in arid environments, infiltrating homes, workplaces, and schools.
Mold exposure is often overlooked as a root cause of chronic illness.
Even if you don’t see visible mold, you could be breathing in harmful spores daily—leading to a range of mild to severe health issues.
What Are Mold & Mycotoxins?
Mold
Mold is a type of fungus that grows in moist environments, both indoors and outdoors. It reproduces by releasing tiny airborne spores that we inhale, which can impact our health.
Mold can appear in many colors, including black, green, white, orange, or purple.
Chronic exposure—not just occasional contact—is what causes the most harm.
Mycotoxins
Mycotoxins are toxic compounds produced by mold that can cause serious health problems, including:
✔️ Neurological damage
✔️ Autoimmune issues
✔️ Respiratory problems
✔️ Gut dysfunction
Mycotoxins can be found in:
🔹 Moldy environments (homes, workplaces, schools)
🔹 Contaminated food (grains, nuts, coffee, dried fruits)
Even if mold is not visible, mycotoxins can linger in the air, on surfaces, and in food—leading to toxic buildup in the body.
Health Conditions Linked to Mold Exposure
Many chronic health issues may actually be caused by hidden mold exposure. Here are some of the most common conditions linked to Mold & Mycotoxin-Induced Illness (MMII):
1. Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)
📊 A 2019 study found that 39.4% of CFS patients reported worsened symptoms due to mold exposure.
93% of CFS patients tested had at least one mycotoxin in their urine.
2. Gut Microbiome Disruption
Mycotoxins damage the gut lining, leading to:
❌ Leaky gut syndrome
❌ Hormonal imbalances
❌ Digestive disorders
❌ Increased anxiety & depression
Good news: A healthy gut microbiome can help detoxify mycotoxins naturally.
✔️ Eat organic whole foods
✔️ Avoid antibiotics & processed foods
✔️ Use natural cleaning products
3. Autoimmune & Immune System Dysfunction
📊 Mold exposure has been linked to increased risk of autoimmune diseases.
Chronic exposure can lead to:
❌ Elevated inflammation markers (IgG, IgM, IgA)
❌ Increased risk of autoimmune disorders
❌ Weakened immune system & frequent infections
4. Neurological Damage & Cognitive Issues
Mold exposure can affect brain function & nervous system health, leading to:
🧠 Memory problems & brain fog
🧠 Mood disorders (anxiety, depression, irritability)
🧠 Headaches & migraines
🧠 Dizziness & balance issues
People working in water-damaged buildings have been found to experience significant loss of visual contrast sensitivity (VCS)—a sign of neurological dysfunction.
5. Respiratory Issues & Chronic Lung Conditions
Mold spores are inhaled directly into the lungs, causing:
❌ Shortness of breath & wheezing
❌ Chronic sinus infections & congestion
❌ Asthma flare-ups
❌ Increased risk of pneumonia & lung disease
📊 Meta-analysis studies show a 30-50% increase in asthma & respiratory problems in mold-exposed individuals.
How to Reduce Mold Exposure & Protect Your Health
✅ 1. Test Your Home for Mold
🔹 Schedule a professional mold inspection
🔹 Use an ERMI or Mycometrics test to check for hidden mold
🔹 Remediate properly to prevent mold from spreading
✅ 2. Improve Air Quality
✔️ Use HEPA air purifiers to remove mold spores
✔️ Increase ventilation & open windows daily
✔️ Keep humidity below 50% using dehumidifiers
✅ 3. Clean & Dust Regularly
✔️ Dust & vacuum with a HEPA filter to remove airborne mold spores
✔️ Clean surfaces with non-toxic mold removers (e.g., vinegar & baking soda)
✅ 4. Optimize Your Diet for Detoxification
Eat a low-mold diet by avoiding:
❌ Processed foods
❌ Gluten & grains
❌ Moldy & fermented foods (cheese, dried fruits, alcohol, coffee, peanuts)
Support detox pathways by consuming:
✔️ Organic vegetables & greens
✔️ Healthy fats (avocado, olive oil, coconut oil)
✔️ Gut-supporting probiotics & prebiotics
✅ 5. Consider Mold Toxicity Testing
If you suspect mold exposure, you can get tested for:
🔹 Mycotoxins (urine test)
🔹 T & B Lymphocyte Panel (immune function test)
🔹 Stool Analysis for Fungal Overgrowth
Functional medicine providers can help determine the best testing options for you.
Final Thoughts: Is Mold the Hidden Cause of Your Symptoms?
🚨 Mold exposure is often overlooked, yet it may be the root cause of many chronic health conditions.
If you are experiencing unexplained symptoms, consider mold as a possible factor.
Work with Dr. Lisa Ballehr to Identify & Treat Mold Toxicity
🔹 Dr. Lisa Ballehr, a Functional Medicine Physician in Mesa, AZ, specializes in mold-related illnesses & detoxification.
She offers virtual consultations nationwide!
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Ballehr Today.
Don’t let mold toxicity go undetected—take action for your health today!
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