Mycotoxin Binders

Mycotoxin binders play a crucial role in the detoxification of mycotoxin-related illnesses. Determining the appropriate binder for a specific mycotoxin can be challenging, but understanding the connection between mycotoxins and effective binders is essential to help people overcome unexplained fatigue and all over body pain. Here we take a look at research linking mycotoxins to suitable binder choices.  A good way to better understand the following information is to locate a functional medicine practitioner who is trained in mold diagnosis and treatment.

Positive OAT and MycoTOX Tests

Following a positive Organic Acids Test and MycoTOX Profile, mold and mycotoxins become a significant factor for many symptomatic clients. Selecting the right binder becomes a challenge when dealing with mycotoxicosis. The research on the binding capacity of each binder may not be as extensive as that of other agents, making it daunting to navigate through the available information. While the task of eliminating mold can be daunting, the benefits of mold symptom relief and improved health and lifespan far outweigh the frustration of getting rid of mold from the body.

Toxin Elimination Pathways

Toxins are eliminated from our bodies through various pathways, including urine, stool, bile, and skin. Binders play a crucial role in the detoxification process, particularly in bile and stool elimination routes. Bile, responsible for packaging fat-soluble substances like mycotoxins, can be reabsorbed in the colon, leading to toxin recirculation. Binders adhere to the bile, preventing reabsorption, but it’s essential to ensure regular bowel movements to avoid potential resorption issues.

Mycotoxin Binders

Cholestyramine and Welchol

Cholestyramine and Welchol, commonly used in prescriptions, are known for their lipid-lowering activity and are effective binders in mycotoxin detoxification protocols. They directly bind to bile in the gastrointestinal tract, facilitating the excretion of mycotoxin-laden bile, particularly effective against ochratoxin a (OTA).

Activated Charcoal

Activated charcoal, a well-known binder, is effective in binding various mycotoxins in the gut, including OTA and macrocyclic trichothecenes like verrucarin a and roridin e. Bentonite clay and zeolite clay are other binders that exhibit affinity for aflatoxins, particularly useful in reducing toxic loads in animal feed and the GI tract.

Glucomannan

Glucomannan, a water-soluble polysaccharide, has shown efficacy in binding mycotoxins such as aflatoxin and OTA. Fibrous supplements and foods, including oats, wheat bran, and lignans in flax and chia, act as simple overall binders by sequestering bile and lowering cholesterol, indirectly reducing toxic loads.

Chlorella

Chlorella, a plant-based binder, is known for its ability to bind heavy metals and aflatoxins. Its safety profile makes it suitable for various populations, including constipated children and pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Humic and Fulvic Acid

Humic acid and fulvic acid, byproducts of organic matter decomposition, act as biotoxin binders and anti-inflammatories. They are versatile additions to detoxification protocols.

Probiotics

Surprisingly, probiotics, known for their role in gut health, also directly bind to mycotoxins. Lactobacillus strains like L. pentosus and L. beveris bind aflatoxins, while L. plantarum C88 binds aflatoxins and upregulates antioxidant activity. Saccharomyces strains, especially S. cerevisiae and S. boulardii, demonstrate effective binding to various mycotoxins, offering a holistic approach to gut treatment and detoxification. Using a combination of these probiotic strains enhances the detoxification process.