Various molds are known to produce a host of toxins (aka mycotoxins) that can adversely affect health. There is one substance that can have profound negative effects on immunity and other organ systems in the body. It’s called Gliotoxin.
Gliotoxin is an immunotoxic chemical produced by aspergillus mold. This mycotoxin can break apart the DNA of lymphocytes altering the function of various white blood cells and macrophages. This can lead to a compromised immune function which predisposes an individual to opportunistic infections and allergies.
Gliotoxin can decrease the production of an important digestive system immunoglobulin called Secretory IgA (SIgA). SIgA is the primary immune chemical secreted along the surface of the digestive system, as well as the sinuses, upper respiratory passages and urogenital organs. This too can compromise immune health.
Finally, gliotoxin increases oxidative stress in the body and can lead to chronic inflammation, not only in the digestive system, but systemically as well. This can lead to problems in the kidneys, liver and even the brain and nervous system. The best defense against the adverse effects of gliotoxin is avoiding moldy foods and assessing mycotoxin levels through urine assessment. Environmental mold from water-damaged buildings can often manifest as increased tendency towards allergy, headaches, fatigue and chemical sensitivity.
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