How Can I Be Exposed To Mycotoxins
Food
Indoor Mould Growth
Indoor Mould Growth
Foods that are processed or manufactured containing mycotoxins can be a common source for mycotoxin exposure. Corn, grains, wheat, barley, nuts, cereals, etc can have mycotoxins from improper growing, handling, storing or production.
Indoor Mould Growth
Indoor Mould Growth
Indoor Mould Growth
In North America and some parts of Europe homes are built with wood framing, drywall, wood flooring etc. Mould needs a cellulose material to grow indoors. Wood, paper, cardboard, etc is a food source for mould to grow indoors if the environment is damp or has water damage.
Common Mycotoxins
Aflatoxin B1,B2, G1, G2
Aflatoxins come from mould species known as Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. This type of mould can grow on corn and tree nuts. However, can also often be found growing inside wall cavities on the back paper of drywall that has sustained water damage. Aspergillus flavus spores when inhaled can contain Aflatoxins. Health risk with aflatoxins can be liver cancer.
Ochratoxin A
Ochratoxin can be found in a large variety of food products. Cereal, coffee, dried fruit all can be affected by this mycotoxin. Mostly Aspergillus and Penicillium type growth product this toxin. Indoors it can be found under sub-floors and on framing inside water damaged wall cavities. It is also recognized as a carcinogen.
Tricothecene Group T2, HT2
T-2 type mycotoxins are the most toxic when inhaled or ingested in large enough quantity but can also be toxic at low levels over a longer period of time. Grains and hay can grow this toxin. Indoors it is usually found in homes that have chronic water damage issues. Stachybotrys, Fusarium and Trichothecium can produce this mycotoxin.
Fumonism
Fumonism has been responsible for many diseased in animals that eat or are exposed to this toxin. It is mainly produced by Fusarium type growth. This toxin can be present in your home if you have chronic water damaged basements.
Zearalenone
Zearalenone mycotoxin is also referred to as F-2 toxin. It is an estrogenic mycotoxin that can affect the reproductive capacity of animals and is being studied I depth to determine the effect on humans and infertility. It can be found in grains and cereals but can also be part of the air you breathe in water damaged buildings.
Gilotoxin
Gilotoxin is a mycotoxin that can be produced by Aspergillus, Penicillium and Alternaria type mould growth. It can significantly affect your immune system and the ability to ward off infections and diseases. It is an opportunistic human pathogen.