Aflatoxin: A Dangerous Mycotoxin

Mycotoxin contamination poses a serious threat to human health, with Aflatoxins (AFs) being among the most detrimental mycotoxins. These toxins are produced by fungi such as Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, commonly present in the production and preservation of grain and feed. The toxic effects of AFs, including carcinogenic, teratogenic, and mutagenic properties, can adversely impact both animal and human health.  Integrative health specialists around the world are working to help people get rid of aflatoxins that have accumulated in their bodies.

The Challenge of Getting Rid of Aflatoxins

Addressing the removal of AF has become a significant challenge. Current research is looking at microorganisms with detoxification capabilities, exploring their mechanisms, the safety of degrading enzymes, and applying these microorganisms as detoxification strategies for AFs. The aim is to establish a reliable reference strategy for the biological detoxification of AFs.

Aflatoxins are a Carcinogen

Aflatoxins, known for causing liver cancer, particularly in individuals with hepatitis B, have far-reaching health implications. Prolonged exposure is associated with immunodeficiency, immunosuppression, stunting, kwashiorkor, and interference with children’s micronutrient metabolism. Regions with poor control and monitoring systems often experience high aflatoxin levels in staple foods, leading to chronic exposure for consumers.

Aflatoxins May Worsen Mast Cell Disorders

Although the precise connection between aflatoxin and MCAS is not well-established, it is theorized that aflatoxin exposure may contribute to immune system dysregulation, potentially triggering or exacerbating MCAS symptoms. Mast cells are involved in the body’s defense against pathogens, and any disruption in their function could potentially lead to an abnormal immune response.

Where Aflatoxins Come From & How They Cause Harm

Produced by Aspergillus fungi, aflatoxins’ levels are influenced by climatic conditions, and both pre- and post-harvest measures are essential to prevent contamination. The severity of aflatoxin’s impact extends beyond liver-related issues, affecting the immune system, gut flora, brain barrier function, and pregnancy. Aflatoxin weakens defenses against viruses, increases susceptibility to respiratory infections, and correlates with various health issues, including birth defects, anemia in pregnancy, premature birth, and stunted growth in children.  It has been shown that aflatoxin can cross the blood-brain barrier and cause damage to the brain, leading to brain fog and much worse.

In addition to its health impacts, aflatoxin is associated with mold sources, specifically Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus, and manifests in various signs and symptoms, such as dark urine, fatigue, anemia, and liver pain. Aflatoxin exposure can also lead to chronic conditions like accelerated aging, reduced immunity, and toxic metal accumulation.

How to Get Rid of Aflatoxin

Mitigating the effects of aflatoxin involves adopting a therapeutic diet rich in antioxidants, protein, essential fatty acids, and specific nutrients such as Vitamin D, Vitamin E, DHA, turmeric, glutathione, melatonin, quercetin, resveratrol, grape seed extract, and red sage. While these dietary measures may aid in alleviating aflatoxin-induced cell injury.  Likewise, mycotoxin binders can help to grab ahold of mycotoxins in the body and help escort them out through the digestive pathway.