Why Mould Matters
Often overlooked, mould can have profound implications for brain health and overall well-being. Here’s why mould matters, especially in the context of preventing Alzheimer’s disease.
Mould is a type of fungus that thrives in damp, humid environments. It hides - behind wall cavities and furniture, in heating and ventilation systems and under cabinets - so you might have significant mould exposure even if you can only see a little bit in your bathroom. When our parents moved out of their house, we found mould in the bedroom and kitchen, all completely hidden behind the furniture. There was no smell whatsoever and no traces of it anywhere else. It was all the more of a shock because my dad prided himself on looking after the house and loved his DIY.
Mould is dangerous because it releases spores into the air, which can be inhaled. It can also settle and colonise on semi porous furniture and items we have around the home like sofas and books. While it is commonly associated with respiratory problems, research has shown that exposure to mould and its mycotoxins (the toxins it releases), can contribute to neurological damage and cognitive decline. Studies have found fungal components, such as proteins and DNA, in the brains of individuals with Alzheimer’s indicating that chronic exposure to mould could play a role in the development and progression of the disease.
One of the ways mould may contribute to Alzheimer’s is through chronic inflammation. Mould exposure can trigger an immune response, leading to persistent inflammation in the body. Chronic inflammation is a known risk factor for Alzheimer’s, as it can accelerate the accumulation of amyloid-beta plaques and tau tangles in the brain—hallmarks of Alzheimer’s pathology.
Dr. Dale Bredesen has highlighted the importance of addressing environmental toxins, including mould, in his approach to preventing and reversing cognitive decline. In his book, “The End of Alzheimer’s,” he emphasizes that mould exposure can be a significant contributor to the toxic burden on the brain and advocates for thorough environmental assessments and remediation as part of his ReCODE protocol.
Dr. Neil Nathan, another prominent figure in the field of environmental medicine, has also highlighted the dangers of mould exposure. He discusses how mycotoxins can disrupt the immune system and lead to chronic inflammatory responses. These can be highly detrimental to brain health but can also cause a whole host of other symptoms including auto-immune conditions, chronic fatigue, joint and muscle pain, UTIs, depression and numbness. He stresses the importance of identifying which mould species you are dealing with (via testing) and a detoxification programme, using binders to heal the body and the brain. It’s not a quick fix and patients need to go slowly.
Given the potential risks associated with mould, it is essential to take proactive steps to minimize exposure, especially for those at risk of Alzheimer’s. Here are some reminders
Maintain a Dry Environment: Ensure that your living spaces are well-ventilated and free from excess moisture. Use dehumidifiers in damp areas and fix any leaks promptly.
Regular Cleaning: Clean and disinfect areas prone to mould growth, such as bathrooms and kitchens, regularly. Use mould-resistant products where possible.
Monitor Indoor Air Quality: Consider using air purifiers with HEPA filters to reduce airborne mould spores. Regularly check and replace filters.
Explore further: Toxic, Heal your Body by Dr Neil Nathan.
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