BioPure

Environmental Toxins and Genomics Conference: Mycotoxins 2020

Details

I had the opportunity to attend the NutriGenetic Research Institute "Environmental Toxins and Genomics Conference".  The focus of the event was mycotoxins.  The event was held online on September 18-20, 2020. This was my first NutriGenetic Research Institute conference, and I don't think it will be my last.  The total IQ in the "room" was off the scale.  My brain hurt for a few days after this one!  

For practitioners, I highly urge you to check out NutriGenetic Research Institute's events and get the recordings of this event.  My notes below are a small subset of the information covered at the event.

Disclaimer: Nothing in this text is intended to serve as medical advice. All medical decisions should be made only with the guidance of your own personal licensed medical authority.

Disclaimer: This information was taken as notes during the training course and may not represent the exact statements of the speakers. Errors and/or omissions may be present.

Note: As this information may be updated as any errors are found, I kindly request that you link to this single source of information rather than copying the content below. If any updates or corrections are made, this will help to ensure that anyone reading this is getting the most current and accurate information available.  

Bob Miller, CTN opened the event and shared:

  • The vibe attracted the tribe.
  • This was their 2nd Annual event.
  • When the house is burning down, don't wash the windows and mow the lawn.
  • NOX senses pathogens and takes an electron from iron to make superoxide and hydrogen peroxide. SOD combines with NO to make peroxynitrite.
  • Borrelia and mycotoxins stimulate mast cells to produce histamine.
  • Histidine in pork chops, milk, navy beans, and other foods can turn into histamine.
  • Histamine, mast cells, and SOD stimulate renin; feeds upon itself.
  • Adrenal fatigue is a very real thing and is impacted by mycotoxins.
  • Mycotoxins can lead to POTS. 

William Shaw, PhD spoke on "Organic Acids and Mycotoxins: Correlations with Mold in Various Chronic Illnesses" and shared:

  • Cereals are a problematic source of molds and mycotoxins.
  • Iran used mycotoxins as weapons against Iraq.
  • People on a conventional diet with no provocation is how they arrived at the reference ranges on the MycoTox.
  • You do not need to do any provocation for their test.
  • Ochratoxin A is the most commonly found on the MycoTOX and the most serious; has seen up to 10,000 times the mean.
  • Gliotoxin attacks the immune system.
  • Zearalenone is a common corn contaminant.
  • Mycophenolic acid is used to prevent transplant rejection.
  • Ochratoxin A is nephrotoxinc, immune suppressive, carcinogen, creates neurological symptoms, more toxic to males, and most common. Comes from Aspergillus and Penicillium.
  • Treatment: remove the source, antifungal drugs an supplements, glutathione, charcoal, clay (Novasil), charcoal and clay (GI Detox), chlorophyllin, Cholestyramine, probiotics (L. pentosus and beveris), chlorella
  • Mold exposure can be a major cause of Alzheimer's.
  • Grain contamination in dog foods may lead to lipomas in dogs.
  • Healthy people have some degree of mold in their GI tract.
  • There is no easy way to determine colonization.
  • A study from Townsend Letter November 2019 showed that normal people have low levels of mycotoxins, but not the same as the mycotoxin-exposed individual.
  • Mold seems to be a major factor in Parkinson's.
  • Oxalates can come from Aspergillus.
  • Autism is a disease where mold plays an important role.
  • Furans are associated with Aspergillus; OAT markers 2, 4, 5.
  • Oxalates can deposit in muscle tissue and act like sharp knives.
  • Colonization is an issue that may require RX antifungals.

Stephanie Seneff, PhD spoke on "Glyphosate, Deuterium, Yeast, Fungus and Cancer: A Complex Story" and shared:

  • She was introduced to deuterium by Dr. Laszlo Boros from UCLA
  • Believes it is a central feature of modern disease
  • Glyphosate and deuterium collaborate to destroy our health
  • Glyphosate is replaced for glycine in our bodies; glycine analogue
  • Deuterium is heavy hydrogen
  • Mitochondria hate deuterium
  • Impacts ability to make ATP leads to higher ROS
  • Sulfate deficiency is a critical issue in modern disease
  • Ocean water is 155.8 ppm deuterium
  • Gas in our systems are often present to deplete deuterium
  • Lowest deuterium is in animal-based fats like butter and pork fat.
  • A high fat diet can deplete deuterium
  • Depression maps overlap with higher deuterium in tap water in various states.
  • Higher elevation leads to lower deuterium in drinking water; near the ocean is higher; southern US higher than northern.
  • Deuterium-depleted water can be helpful for depression or even cancer
  • Glyphosate used in the US more than any other country; needs to be banned
  • Glyphosate disrupts EPSPS in Shikimate pathway.
  • Glyphosate causes fatty liver disease
  • Hydrogen containing and methane gases; gases are depleted in deuterium. Microbes generate gas to have food low in deuterium and benefit mitochondrial health.
  • Hydrogen-enriched water looks promising
  • Hydrogen gas produced by microbes anaerobically can deplete deuterium down to 30ppm
  • NAD and FAD can be essential; NAD from B3; FAD from B2; supply deuterium-depleted protons to mitochondria
  • Hydrogen gas as therapy; source of deuterium-depleted hydrogen
  • Flavoproteins from B2
  • Glyphosate interferes with the production of pyrroles
  • Heme oxygenase tames inflammation
  • COVID-19 shows extreme inflammation in the vasculature
  • Foods high in niacin -> NAD(P): meat, fish, poultry, avocado, peanuts, whole grains, mushrooms, green peas, potatoes
  • Riboflavin for FAD: beef, tofu, milk, fish, mushrooms, pork, spinach, almonds, avocados, eggs
  • Molybdenum - acetaldehyde toxin from yeast; coverts to acetic acid (generates NADH). Foods: legumes, nuts, soy, cheese, yogurt, green vegetables, eggs, liver
  • High fat diet is low in deuterium
  • Hydrogen water produces deuterium-depleted hydrogen gas.
  • LifeWater
  • Flavonoids and polyphenols helpful
  • Eat foods containing sulfur
  • Legumes and oats are high in glyphosate
  • Genetic weakness with heme oxygenase may predict poorer outcomes in COVID
  • MyLabsForLife does glyphosate testing
  • High cholesterol may be due to glyphosate
  • EDS may be caused by glycine mutations in collagen; glyphosate creates a pseudo-EDS
  • Glycine supplementation may help remove glyphosate

Several vendors presented during the event to share their products.  

AMD IonCleanse shared:

  • Net reduction in glyphosate was 34% after 12 sessions.
  • In a 2018 mycotoxin study, 12 cleanses at three per week for 4 weeks led to 39% reduction in Ochratoxin A.
  • 55% reduction has been seen in ATEC scores in autism in one study; included teenagers which shows that the recovery window does not close.
  • Detoxification is primarily after the session; did 24 hour urine collections 5 days in a row, then a session, then 5 more days of collection. Showed 34% increase in excretion.
  • Positively charged: metals, pesticides, mycotoxins
  • Negatively charged: ammonia, endotoxins, biofilm, herbicides/glyphosate, Candida
  • Their system can help with excretion of both positively and negatively charged toxicants.

Joel Rosen, DC presented "The Truth About Adrenal Fatigue And How It Is Related To Mycotoxins/Mold" and shared:

  • Mold directly impacts mast cells; sits on the hypothalamus and creates feedback loop dysregulation
  • Adrenal fatigue is a change in energy production associated with Cell Danger Response
  • Involves epigenetic influences of gene expression
  • Hans Selye talked about adrenals, mast cells, and oxalates
  • CRH is a master alarm that promotes inflammation
  • Mold and mycotoxin illness will be the proverbial straw; leads to CDR and cannot move through the healing stages
  • CDR1 is damage control, inflammation, cleanup, innate immunity
  • CDR2 is cell proliferation, biomass replacement
  • CDR3 is cell proliferation and migration stopped and cells begin to differentiate and take on organ-specific functions
  • CDR1 is associated with Nrf2; HPA axis involved
  • CDR2 is involved with mTOR, HIF1a (hypoxia induced factor 1), and AHR (aryl hydrocarbon receptor)
  • CDR3 is involved with AMPK

Beth O'Hara spoke on "Mast Cells and Mold Toxicity: Applications for Sensitive Patients" and shared: 

  • Many of her clients have worked with numerous practitioners and barely hanging on; often MCAS associated
  • Mold toxicity is the number one trigger; 80% of her clients
  • Food, inflammatory triggers (iron, EMF), chemicals, metals, infections, genetics, nutritional imbalances, hypoxia, hormones, stress, and trauma all contribute
  • Mast cells have over 1000 mediators
  • Lab testing catches 10% of MCAS patients
  • Mycotoxins push cytokine release from mast cells
  • MCAS immune changes lead to Th1 reduction and Th2 dominance which drives Th17 mediated autoimmunity
  • Genes implicated: NOX, KIT, CYP21A2, ABP1 (DOA), HNMT, HDC (increases histidine to histamine; people may react to P5P), HRH, IL13, SIRT2 (inflammasome production; resveratrol)
  • CDR leads to stiff membranes, methylation changes, decrease in vitamin D, HDC increase, heme alterations, tryptophan moves from serotonin/melatonin to quinolinic/kynurenine, metal accumulation, bowel changes, and mitochondrial changes.
  • Often sees poor response in MCAS to PC, methylation support, B6/P5P, low carb diets, metal detoxing before mold, antimicrobials for gut/SIBO before mold binding, mitochondrial support
  • If not addressing mold first, hard to fix EBV, Lyme, SIBO
  • Common in MCAS and mold: supplement and medication sensitivity, chemical sensitivity, histamine intolerance, lectin sensitivity, high oxalates, salicylate intolerance (10%; problems with herbs and foods), FODMAP intolerance, high glutamate
  • Most molds produce oxalates
  • Most detox is too aggressive in MCAS
  • Must address constipation first
  • Personalized binders
  • Do NOT push through a Herxheimer reaction
  • Mast cells last over a year; pushing can have long-term negative effects
  • Address detox in the right order
  • Go slow with glutathione if used for provocation in mycotoxin testing
  • 8 stages of mold detox in MCAS
    1. Which mycotoxins?
    2. Nervous system support
    3. Elimination - constipation and water
    4. Support mast cells
    5. Targeted binders
    6. Support detox pathways
    7. Antifungals
    8. Biofilm busters
  • Low histamine, low lectin diet often helpful
  • Mast cell support
  • Micro-dosing
  • 1 change at a time
  • What if still reacting?
  • Salicylate sensitivity - cross-reference with reactions; ear ringing can be related particularly if worsened by aspirin
  • Heme dysregulation and subclinical porphyria (problems with low carb diet; extreme abdominal pain; saline/dextrose IVs)
  • Nervous system imbalance - startle, weak gag reflex, trouble relaxing, sleeping, handling change, wired after conversation, lack of intestinal motility, uvula doesn't move or veers to the side (vagus nerve), immune disorders
  • Nervous system support: DNRS, Gupta, Emotion Code
  • Vagal support: BrainTap, Hemi Sync, FSM, Safe and Sound
  • Structural vagal - exercises, cervical, cranial
  • Synchronized breathing GIF
  • Foods often missed on low histamine diet: beef, ground meat, thawed meat, leftovers, yogurt, fish (wild caught salmon only safe), cinnamon, clove, nutmeg
  • MCAS-triggering additives: carrageenan, citric acid, sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, guar gum, xanthan gum, citrus oil
  • Magnesium citrate can be a problem
  • Low Histamine Foods List
  • Perilla seed, quercetin, baicalin, DAO, Vitamin A as retinyl acetate or beta carotene, baking soda in water, D3/K2, SPMs, adrenal support
  • They formulated MC Stabilizer - https://functionalgenomicnutrition.com/products/mc-stabilizer
  • Avoid: niacin, ascorbic acid (fermented), ascorbyl palmitate (fermented), MTHF, dried spinach/strawberry/pineapple, collagen, citrates, citrus, clove, and cinnamon
  • Avoid titanium dioxide, potassium sorbate, sodium benzoate, guar gum, xanthan gum, carrageenan, citric acid, sodium triphosphate, potassium triphosphate, talc
  • Tolerated: Cromolyn, Ketotifen, H2 blockers, H1 blockers, Hydroxyzine (without fillers)
  • Nystatin has corn starch, talc, coloring
  • Diflucan has colorings
  • Sporanox has corn, titanium, and colorings
  • May use Biocidin or nano-silver such as Argentyn 23
  • Beta glucuronidase undoes glucuronidation

Mackay Rippey, LAc spoke on "IL-4 and IL-13" and shared:

  • People with these mutations cannot get well no matter what they do.
  • Involved in MCAS, mycotoxins, virus, and bacterial clearance, obesity, metabolic syndrome, parasitic clearance, anxiety, depression, autism, autoimmunity, chronic infections
  • These are said to be anti-inflammatory cytokines - true and not true.
  • True when the immune system is properly regulated.
  • When they go rogue, they cause inflammation.
  • IL-4 - susceptibility to intestinal inflammation in food allergy in mice (not seen in those mice with IL-4 knocked out).
  • IL-4 plays a role in MCAS and intestinal barrier dysfunction.
  • IL-13 deficient mice had normal bile acids, intestinal integrity, and microbiome.
  • Impacts other barriers as well like sinus and lungs.
  • Innate immune system is fast-acting; white blood cells.
  • Adaptive is slower; T/B cells.
  • Often reference to Th1 as inflammatory and Th2 as anti-inflammatory; only half the story
  • Th17 is associated with autoimmunity
  • Th2 helps with helminths, extracellular parasites, particulates, tissue healing, resolution of inflammation.
  • Asthma, allergy, environmental sensitivity, recurring infection, tumor formation/cancer, barrier issues associated with Th2.
  • Mycotoxins push towards Th2 and IL-4
  • Th1 cells are resistant to histamine
  • MCAS is polarized to Th2
  • In IL-4 environment, mast cells more likely to degranulate
  • IL-4 primes mast cells
  • IL-4 and IL-13 prime IgE and degranulates mast cells
  • Causes of Th2 imbalance and IL-4/IL-13 over-expression: mycotoxins, parasite, allergens, MCAS, genetics, excessive exercise, antioxidant depletion
  • All lead to Th2 imbalance, IL-4, IL-13
  • Perilla seed, astragalus, Baicalin, rutin, fisetin can inhibit Th2 mediated inflammation
  • http://beyondprotocols.org

Sandeep Gupta, MD spoke on "Mold Testing and Remediation Made Simple" and shared:

  • IEP and remediator should be independent
  • Looking for mold AND microbial contamination; mold, bacteria, parasite, Mycoplasma, Chlamydia, protozoa.
  • 48 hours or longer with moisture can lead to a Water-Damaged Building and attracts microbes of all types into it
  • Can also have VOCs and mVOCs
  • Suspect microbial contamination (visible mold, visible water damage, musty, self-testing, patient symptoms, CIR testing) -> Inspection by IEP (building investigation, moisture measure, microbial sampling) -> Identify source, contain, relocate -> fix the moisture source (washing machines, vent hoods, fridge with water dispenser) -> IEP Scope of remediation work -> Remediator Implementation (remove materials, drying, cleaning) -> Post Remediation Evaluation (remediator) and Verification (IEP)
  • Mold is often a problem even in absence of mold growth
  • Urine smell can be bacterial overgrowth
  • Assessment by an IEP should be like assessment from a doctor - history and testing
  • Finding a good inspector - building biologist (buildingbiologyinstitute.org), ACAC (acac.org), Industrial/Occupational Hygienist (aiha.org), Myco/Microbiologist (mccroneinstitute.org)
  • Fogging, essential oils, painting over - if that's their approach, not a good inspector to hire
  • Need a deep causative approach
  • A good IEP should seek the cause of water ingress, take 3-5 hours, use ERMI/HERTSMI-2, test HVAC, test VOCs, EMFs, mycotoxins, write a scope of work for remediation, be independent, be familiar with CIRS
  • Air testing - compared to outside, cost effective, but many molds don't float in air.
  • ERMI - fragments and spores, more expensive, historical not current, not perfect but has a place
  • HERTSMI-2 - high level of accuracy
  • EMMA - 10 molds + 16 mycotoxins
  • ERMI + Endotoxin or Mycotoxin
  • ERMI + Actinomycetes
  • Remediate or Relocate
  • Mold Illness Made Simple launching V2 soon - V1 was 4 years ago
  • Aspergillus in the lungs is a severe complication of COVID19
  • Mantra – must remove and replace all contaminated building materials

Bob Miller reminded us at the start of day 2 that mycotoxins lead to histamine which leads to more need for cortisol; stressing the adrenals.

Bob Miller, CTN spoke on "The NADPH Steal, Cytokine Storm, and the Holmes Cycle" and shared:

  • Mycotoxins stimulate the NOX enzyme.
  • Oxidative stress by NOX2 activation is associated with severe disease and thrombotic events in COVID19 patients.
  • Mycotoxin exposure could make one more susceptible to cytokine storms
  • Mycotoxins stimulate mast cells
  • Mast cells stimulate REN gene. Super Oxide also stimulates REN gene.
  • "The Holmes Cycle" is a hypothesis that toxic environmental factors serve as epigenetic influences in those with genetic predispositions leading to overstimulation of the NOX enzyme which results in over production of superoxide, peroxynitrite, mast cells, histamine, and glutamate. NOX uses NADPH to produce free radicals leading to "NADPH Steal" and less ability to have adequate NADPH to support Phase 1 detox, produce nitric oxide, and recycle antioxidants such as glutathione. Free radicals stimulate Renin, Angiotensin, Aldosterone, IL6, and NOX resulting in a "self-perpetuating vicious cycle of inflammation".
  • Edema at night may be upregulated aldosterone as a result of glucose, superoxide, mast cells, histamine, dopamine, or testosterone.
  • Bone broth and collagen can increase glutamine and thus glutamate
  • Aldosto Ease Product may support the ACE2 enzyme. Can see drops in blood pressure if starting too high.
  • NOX protects us from infection but environmental/epigenetic factors stimulate the NOX enzyme excessively and produce ROS and inflammation.
  • Critical to take steps to make sure that NOX is not over-active. Without it, you die of infection. Overactive has negative effects.
  • COVID uses mTOR for replication; hi-jacks.
  • Heme Oxygenase 1 is critical for antiviral, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and is cyto-protective; inhibits several subunits of NOX.
  • High quinolinic acid is inflammatory.
  • Mycotoxins stimulate NOX, mast cells, and inhibit the Holmes Cycle.

Great Plains shared:

  • Oxalates are exclusive to their OAT test.
  • Oxalates can trap metals in tissues.
  • Mold growing inside the body can be identified via the OAT.
  • Mold plays a role in Parkinson's; 79% were positive for Ochratoxin; 72% for both mycotoxins and elevated arabinose.
  • New IgG Food Map test looks at 190 foods.

Andrew Campbell, MD presented on "Mycotoxins: Human Effects: An Evidence-Based Lecture" and shared:

  • Key to solving problems from toxins: detect cause, remove cause (hardest part), and repair damage.
  • OSHA approves of only one product to get rid of mold/mycotoxins; TM-100
  • Get the toxin away from patient or patient away from the toxin
  • Ongoing exposure will result in no treatment helping
  • Four types of pathogens: bacteria, viral, fungal, parasitic
  • We develop antibodies after infection
  • Antibodies to organisms = past exposure
  • Antibodies to toxins are current immune reaction; they are not alive; once the toxins are gone, the antibody reaction fades away
  • Mycotoxins inhibit protein synthesis which inhibits RNA/DNA, forms DNA adducts and protein adducts, causes oxidative stress and mitochondrial-directed apoptosis.
  • A mold produces a series of mycotoxins; not just one.
  • Human hair is 100 microns, fungal spores are 12 microns, mycotoxins 0.1 microns (can be absorbed through skin)
  • Mycotoxins go into nasal passages, sinuses, and lungs
  • Mycotoxins get into the nervous system and alveoli.
  • When entering lungs, get into systemic circulation.
  • They lead to the generation of ROS, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and injury to DNA.
  • Another mode of transportation is via olfactory neurons; attaches nasal mucosa and transported up the olfactory nerve through cribriform plate and enters hypothalamus and pituitary.
  • First place mycotoxins impact is the brain and nervous tissue.
  • Mycotoxin antibodies bind to neural tissue such as myelin and trigger demyelination.
  • He likes Cyrex Array 7 to look for antibodies to neural tissue.
  • Anisocoria (pupil size differences) often observed.
  • Nerve conduction velocity study - can have damage to motor and sensory (more common) nerves; great majority have both.
  • Mycotoxins impacts CNS and immune system in additional to pulmonary system and allergies
  • Mycotoxins impact memory, autism, chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy, loss of balance, movement disorder, decreased visual acuity
  • Mold and mycotoxins can lead to production of proinflammatory cytokines from mast cells
  • Fungal neurotoxins have been seen in ALS
  • Fungal neurotoxins lead to higher glutamate production
  • Upregulates aromatase; testosterone conversion to estrogen
  • When you get rid of mycotoxins, hormone levels come back
  • Penicillium toxin impact fertility of males.
  • Mycotoxins impact thyroid hormone; T4 conversion to T3.
  • 25% of crops have mycotoxins but it is at VERY low levels.
  • Mycotoxins can be found in urine in healthy people.
  • Ochratoxin cannot be excreted in urine; it is bound to albumin in the body.
  • MyMycoLab tests for 12 mycotoxins - both IgG and IgE for each
  • Gliotoxin can cause demyelination
  • Mycotoxin antibody testing works in humans only.
  • Parts per billion analogy - cover 100 football fields with golf balls - take out 1 golf ball.
  • Treat and then test after 6 months
  • Psoriatic arthritis case resolved with mold/mycotoxin treatment
  • Alzheimer's can have mycotoxins as a potential cause, autopsy has shown mycotoxins
  • Treatment - antifungal (Itraconazole with food), melatonin for neuroprotection, D3, C, B, ReadiSorb Glutathione, Magnesium up to 3 grams per day (Jigsaw SRT), PS, Omega Q Plus Max
  • Diet - 80% of the immune system is in the gut; probiotic ProFlora 4R
  • Olivirex useful with fungal issues
  • MegaSporeBiotic
  • Fluconazole is for Candida only.
  • Binders: Activated Charcoal
  • Sodium bicarb can decrease absorption of ochratoxin
  • Best to use for binding: NAC, glutathione, C, E (alpha tocopherol), quercetin, zinc, lycopene
  • Immunosciences is only patented Lyme test

Emily Givler, DSC presented on "Mycotoxins and GSH Conjugation" and shared:

  • Glutathione levels are predictive of longevity and cellular health
  • Levels drop 1% per year starting at age 20. By 60, only 40% of levels of 20.
  • Master antioxidant
  • Detoxifies formaldehyde, acetaminophen, some mycotoxins, benzopyrene, and others toxins
  • Glutathione alone will not do it; need Glutatione S-Transferase.
  • More glutathione in a toxic system doesn't help.
  • Glutathione S-Transferase converts glutathione from and antioxidant to detoxifier.
  • Glutathione S-Transferase us present mostly in liver, kidney, and intestines
  • EnviroTox from GPL is an excellent way to assess Glutathione S-Transferase activity
  • Aflatoxin and Ochratoxin are cleared by glutathione conjugation
  • Alpha ad Mu (GSTM1) classes are most relevant.
  • Deletions or copy number variations are common.
  • Mycotoxins may decrease the production of glutathione.
  • Need both glutathione and Glutathione S-transferase.
  • Have to consider Nrf2 and expression of Glutathione S-Transferase
  • Cannot overlook the role of Nrf2
  • If inflammation is a fire and glutathione is the water, Nrf2 is the sprinkler and KEAP1 is the sensor
  • If the sprinkler keeps running and there is no fire, you also have problems
  • Can modulate KEAP1 and Nrf2 with molecular hydrogen
  • In addition to decreasing glutathione, Ochratoxin A inhibition of Nrf2 decreases production of Glutathione S-Transferase isoform GSTP1.
  • Ochratoxin A inhibits its own detoxification
  • Mycotoxins such as aflatoxin don't cause problems IF they are bound to glutathione via Glutathione S-Transferase.
  • Interventions: S-Acetyl Glutathione, liposomal glutathione, or IV glutathione
  • Product Glutathione Conjugation Support is a tool they created with garlic, turmeric, green tea, rooibos, rosemary are included
  • Brassicas enhance Glutathione S-Transferase even in null genotypes; may be an issue in some with sulfur intolerance
  • Oxalates can lead to sulfate intolerance

Jill Carnahan, MD spoke on "Mold and Mycotoxin Detox: Everything You Need to Know" and shared:

  • Being scared means that you are about to do something really brave.
  • We do today what we know; tomorrow we do better as we know more.
  • Often comes down to toxic load and infectious burden
  • Dose is not always the poison
  • Total toxic body burden; full bucket can lead to cancer, autoimmunity, neurodegenerative disease
  • The goal is to create margin to detoxify and heal
  • We don't need to do that much; the body knows how to heal
  • You don't need to find every last toxin in the body
  • Burden = diet, metals, chemicals, food allergies, mold, mycotoxins, medications, and more
  • Trouble losing weight can be a huge clue for toxicity
  • Will fight a losing battle with weight loss until you deal with toxins first
  • History includes: community, home/office, personal, diet, dental, medical history
  • Avoidance is number one key to healing
  • 85% of illness is lifestyle; 15% is genetic
  • No tagging of antigen leading to a merry go round of toxins
  • Body's innate immune system is what causes damage and inflammation; misfire
  • Aspergillus / Penicillium - more allergic, histamine, MCAS, red itchy eyes, brain fog, congestion, or cough
  • Chaetomium - more neuro toxic effects; narcoleptic mold
  • Tick-borne illness toxins play a role
  • Mold and Lyme frequently seen together but have to decrease toxic load and calm the system before treating infections (or you will create more toxic load)
  • Testing environment - IEPs, ERMI/HERTSMI-2 helpful for a slight idea (do not use ERMI score but look at the molds identified)
  • Urinary mycotoxins - challenge with glutathione or sauna for 3-5 days prior; stop and test if exacerbation of symptoms
  • RealTime, Great Plains, Vibrant; uses all of them
  • Mycotoxin antibodies with MyMycoLab is another option
  • High cholesterol can be the result of toxic molds
  • LPS drive metabolic syndrome, diabetes, heart disease, and other conditions.
  • LPS creates same cytokine cascade as COVID
  • NADPH is used in making NO, supporting CYPs, breakdown of heme for toxin clearance.
  • Molds and mycotoxins deplete NADPH
  • Mold/fungus use NOX; need more support.
  • Secret ingredient in her Mold Detox Box is NAD
  • NADPH Oxidase is important in dealing with mold and dealing with inflammation.
  • MCAS - many patients with mold have MCAS; must be controlled early on
  • Klonopin can stabilize mast cells
  • Loves Ketotifen and quercetin
  • Avoid high histamine foods; bone broth, fermented foods
  • Low mold diet helps get people there quicker
  • Treat colonization if necessary - sees frequent with Aspergillus and Candida; OAT markers 2, 4, 5, 6, 9
  • Caprylic acid, grapefruit seed extract, Pau D'Arco, undecylenic acid, and others
  • Addison's/adrenal - will have Candida colonization
  • Candida testing - blood, urine OAT, stool
  • Detox
    • Minimize exposure - clean air, water, food
    • Austin Air, IQAir, Air Doctor
    • Avoid common outgassing items
    • Likes alkaline water and mineral water
    • Home Air Quality meter has been a game changer - particulates, formaldehyde, total VOC
    • Optimize elimination and excretion
    • Optimize gut microbiome
    • Support mitochondria
    • Optimize biotransformation/liver detox
    • Likes Sulforaphane for phase 2 detox
    • Caution with quercetin as it can lead to estrogen issues; breast tenderness
    • GI Detox, Activated Coconut Charcoal, Bentonite, Zeolite, OptiFiber, CSM/Welchol
    • Coffee enemas - can be powerful way to increase glutathione production
    • Her coffee enema kit contains charcoal in the coffee; Carbo Konigsfeld Coffee Kit
    • Spore probiotics are well tolerated with SIBO/SIFO
    • Absinth is a true bitter
    • Lymphatics - exercise, hydrotherapy, drainage, massage, dry brushing, rebounding
    • QuickSilver Ultra Binder Low Sulfur may be better tolerated by people with sulfur issues
    • Her secret weapon is NAD+ Gold
    • Too much NAD can deplete methyl donors; uses TMG in NAD+ Gold to balance this potential

There was a mention that gout can be the result of mycotoxins.

Neil Nathan, MD spoke on "Mold and Mycotoxins: Effective Testing and Treatment" and shared:

  • The right protocol is the one that gets your patient well.
  • A rigid algorithm will not work
  • Mold is much more than mold alone: Actinomycetes, Mycobateria, VOCs, beta glucans, hemolyins, mannans, proteinases; an inflammatory soup.
  • Mold symptoms can be allergen, infectious, colonization, or toxic effects.
  • Triggers or directly influences: MCAS, Porphyria, methylation disfunction, reactivation of infections, limbic dysfunction, vagal nerve dysfunction
  • Treating downstream components will prolong the illness
  • Models: Cell Danger Response, Horowitz MSIDS Map, Bredesen 36 Point ReCODE Program, Biotoxin Pathway
  • 25% are genetically susceptible to not processing mold toxin leading to biotoxin pathway or cell danger response
  • Toxic molds - Stachybotrys, Penicillium, Aspergillus, Chaetomium, Fusarium, Wallemia, and Alternaria
  • Mold biotoxin illness is not from outdoor molds
  • Mold makes everything else worse: Lyme, viruses, MCS, EHS, food allergy, autoimmunity.
  • Anxiety, depression, heightened sensitivities may be indictors for a limbic system component
  • Mold illness may look like Fibromyalgia, CFS, "atypical" neurological conditions, asthma, chronic sinusitis
  • Mold, Lyme, co-infections all look similar; same type of inflammation
  • Anxiety, depression, depersonalization, derealization, cognitive impairment, mood swings, OCD; could be mold
  • Electric shocks, ice-pick pains, non-dermatomal paresthesias, increased sensitivity to everything are big clues for mold illness
  • Internal tremors could be mold or Bartonella
  • Can colonize and continue to make toxins internally even when you leave the environment
  • Testing - urine mycotoxin testing best, VCS, TGFb1, C4a, MSH, VEGF, VIP, MMP9, HLA
  • Urine mycotoxins are most specific in making the diagnosis; tells which toxins and then can derive which binders would be optimal
  • Urine Mycotoxin Testing: ELISA (RealTime or Vibrant) or LCMS (Great Plains)
  • LCMS will only tell you what you are looking for; very specific
  • ELISA measure toxins and metabolites of the toxins; broader net
  • Both tests are helpful.
  • Great Plains and RealTime give him the most useful information
  • Great Plains more accurate for Ochratoxin A, Mycophenolic, Citrinin, Zearalenone
  • RealTime more accurate for Aflatoxin, Trichothecenes, Gliotoxin
  • Challenge with 500mg glutathione twice a day for 7 days collecting on day 7; RealTime only; not for Great Plains
  • Stop all binders 3 days prior or false negative results may be more likely
  • Sweating, hot bath, or shower can help mobilize toxin before collection
  • If provocation worsens, stop and collect. Don't push through.
  • First test is the tip of iceberg; 80% are higher on next test as detoxification is working better
  • If repeat testing is higher, this could be from re-exposure, improved detoxification, excessive binding, excessive killing, stimulating mold to make mycotoxins
  • One study showed 51% of controls do have Ochratoxin but average 1.6 level. Mold patients > 18
  • Ochratoxin level correlates well with mold toxicity
  • A negative urine mycotoxin test could be: not mold toxic, ability to detox is compromised, test is not measuring their toxin, or the test is not accurate.
  • A failed VCS test can be inflammation with mold, Lyme, or mercury.
  • Biotoxin markers suggest inflammation but not from what; often normalize before mycotoxin testing clear
  • MARCoNS is not a significant component of illness; often not important to test or treat
  • HLA-DR does not predict treatment outcome
  • Cannot get well in moldy environment
  • Treatment approach: fix the environment, binders, and antifungals.
  • Testing: ImmunoLytics plates (2 hours), ERMI/HERTSMI-2, IEP
  • Binders
    • Ochratoxin: CSM, Welchol, Charcoal
    • Gliotoxin: Bentonite, NAC, Saccharomyces boulardii
    • Trichothecenes: Bentonite, Charcoal, Chlorella
    • Aflatoxin: Bentonite, Charcoal, Chlorella
    • Zearalenone: Bentonite, Saccharomyces boulardii
    • Chaetoglobosin: likely Bentonite, Charcoal, Chlorella

  • Dosing is based on constitution

  • Ideally binders away from food and supplements

  • Ideally once daily at 3pm in the afternoon

  • Diet - high protein, low carb; keto preferred

  • Not a significant amount of mold toxin in food

  • Did a study with 8 people with GPL; avoid all moldy food for 10 days then ate moldy foods for 10 days; 7 had LOWER levels in the second test and one had increase

  • Nasal Support: Argentyn 23 followed by antifungal/biofilm agent (Amhpo B; Nystatin if sensitive; Itraconazole or Ketoconazole middle); use EDTA for biofilm.

  • Gut - Argentyn 23, Nystatin (for Gliotoxin or Candida), Intraconazole; may use Ampho B solution

  • Biofilm: Beyond Balance MC-BFM or Interfase Plus

  • Regular use of antifungal agents does not appear to cause resistance

  • Other Useful Treatments: Beyond Balance PRO-MYCO, MYCOREGEN, TOX-EASE BIND, TOX-EASE GL, Byron White A-FNG, CellCore Biotoxin Binder, Biocidin nasal spray
  • Loves IV PC, ozone insufflation
  • LDI, Transfer Factor ENVIRO can be helpful
  • May need to START with limbic system, vagus nerve, MCAS
  • Support detox with TOX-EASE GL, ITIRES, RENELIX
  • Make bile: Acetyl L Carnitine, Calcium pyruvate, Pantethine, PC, Ox Bile
  • Mobilize bile: bitters, artichoke, milk thistle, coffee enemas
  • Use care with L glutamine as it may turn into glutamate
  • A focus on gut first doesn't work; focus should be on mold and Candida FIRST
  • Sensitivity to light, sound, touch, chemicals, EMFs suggests limbic system impairment 

Researched Nutritionals shared information on their new detoxification tool ToxinPul.

Sandeep Gupta, MD presented on "Roadmap to Mold and Mycotoxin Testing" and shared:

  • Need to ask specific questions to get the history of potential mold exposure
  • Were there any homes you lived in that you did not feel well?
  • Most commonly sees ME/CFS, FMS, MCS, MCAS, EDS, Lyme; but also autoimmune, SIBO/dysbiosis/leaky gut, Alzheimer's, MS, anxiety/depression, PTSD, ADD, EHS, ASD
  • Symptom clusters from Shoemaker - 6-7 symptom clusters positive = investigate. 8+ = 95% chance of CIRS
  • VCS 92% sensitive, 98% specific but ISEAI finds it is less in practice. A positive result is notable.
  • Need above 6 in C and above 5 in D; looks at the last one you got correct
  • May use RX binders until negative then use natural binders longer
  • History/Symptom Cluster -> VCS -> Direct/Indirect Testing -> Treatment
  • Contaminated possessions can be a big factor that keeps people ill
  • Burning pain, reactivity to foods/supplements can be MCAS
  • Using tests as a replacement for history will not work
  • Direct Tests
    • GI Colonization - GI MAP, CDSA, GI360, NGS
    • OAT can give bacterial and fungal overgrowth markers for fungal colonization
    • Nasosinus - Fungal culture Microbiology DX, Fungal Culture ENT, RealTime nasal mycotoxins
    • Urinary Mycotoxin - ELISA/RealTime, LCMS/Great Plains, ELISA/Vibrant
  • Indirect Lab Tests
    • Skin prick or RAST for allergy
    • ArminLabs Aspergillus Peptide Mix EliSpot
    • TGFb1, C4a, MMP9, Leptin, VEGF MSH, ACTH, ADH, VIP
    • Blood Mycotoxin Antibody Testing
    • MARCoNS
    • OAT is one of most useful
      • High lactic acid can be specific for mold toxicity
      • High pyroglutamic can be chemicals or mold; low can be mold
      • Succinic can be high in mold or chemicals
      • Mandelic acid can be chemicals
      • Oxalates can be fungal colonization
      • B vitamins are used up trying to metabolize oxalates; B1, B2, B6
    • NeuroQuant - volumetrics of non-contrast brain MRI; Triage Brain Atrophy Report (TBAR), General Morphometry, and Age Related Atrophy Reports may be used
    • HLA-DR has been de-emphasized even in Shoemaker group
    • GENIE Transcriptomics - expression of 215 genes; newer testing option; not yet peer reviewed
    • High VEGF can be Bartonella.
    • Bartonella + mold could lead to a normal VEGF
    • Futhan assay for C4a is much less accurate; should go to National Jewish Hospital
    • Ozone is not satisfactory for remediation
    • For filtration, often use combination of HEPA and PCO; Molekule is excellent 

Emily Givler, DSC and Beth O'Hara, FND spoke on "Precision Mycotoxin Detoxification" and shared:

  • Optimize elimination (bowels/water/kidneys), Binders, Bile support (if light stool), lymph and sweating, Phase 2 support, Antifungals (if needed), Biofilm Support (if needed)
  • Elimination includes: bowels moving; renal excretion of mycotoxins can be significant; PEKANA remedies; when mycotoxins on the table, not a heal your gut first approach; if bowels not moving, you cannot push the liver; optimize elimiation before binders
  • Binders - start slow, micro-dose, 1 at a time, more gentle binders like charcoal and clay before chlorella, zeolite, CSM which can be more harsh
  • Indicators to slow down: new symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, muscle cramps, seizures, sleep disruption
  • If reactions, stop binders for 2 weeks, re-start slowly, start with 1 sprinkle every third day
  • Precision Binders and Supported Mycotoxins
    • Charcoal - Aflatoxin B1, Diacetoxyscirpenol (Fusarium Type A Trichothecene), Ochratoxin A, T-2 Toxin
    • Bentonite - Aflatoxin B1/B2, Diacetoxyscirpenol (Fusarium Type A Trichothecene), T-2 Toxin, Zearalenone
    • Chlorella - Aflatoxin, Chaetoglobosin (?)
    • CSM - Ochratoxin, Chaetoglobosin (?)
    • Diatomaceous Earth - Aflatoxin, Ochratoxin
    • Glucomannan - Aflatoxin, Ochratoxin, Trichothecenes; may not be as well tolerated in those with SIBO
    • NAC - Gliotoxin, Chaetoglobosin (?)
    • Propolmannan - Gliotoxin; may not be as well tolerated in those with SIBO
    • Saccharomyces boulardii - Zearalenone, Gliotoxin, Enniatin B, Chaetoglobosin (?); take with food; other binders should be taken by themselves (away from food, supplements, medications)
    • Welchol - Ochratoxin
    • Zeolite - Aflatoxin B2, Chaetoglobosin (?), Diacetoxyscirpenol (Fusarium Type A Trichothecene), Ochratoxin, T-2 Toxin
  • Lymph Support - dry brushing, microcurrent, lymph drainage, rebounding (can be hard with high oxalates)
  • Sweating is a pathway for oxalic acid (consider hydration) and can be irritating to the skin; need to support adrenals with salt; may not be tolerated in MCAS
  • Castor Oil Packs - organic castor oil, glass bottle, apply to abdomen, compression helpful, support circulation and lymph, ricinoleic acid is anti-inflammatory and can lower histamine; preserves glutathione
  • Consider pairing castor oil with coffee enemas
  • Coffee Enemas - kahweol palmitate and cafestol palmitate only found in coffee and increase glutathione in intestines and liver; lighter roasts have higher levels, caffeine key (may prevent liver fibrosis and dilate blood vessels), coffee is more effective rectally than orally, stimulates release of bile, re-absorption potential minimized due to rapid excretion; every other week to weekly, not daily.
  • Phase III Detox - CYP3A4 associated with aromatase upregulation; impacted by mycotoxins; impairment of mucosal membrane and exposure of villi leads to mycotoxins moving into circulation.
  • Induced by St. Johns Wort (avoid), inhibited by resveratrol and grapefruit.
  • It is not enough to conjugate the toxin if you cannot get it out of the hepatic cell and excreted. ABCC2 variants play a role. Antiporter genes supported with Nrf2 support.
  • Bile Support - pale/yellow stool, constipation, floating/oily stool, gas/bloating/diarrhea with high fat, intolerance to fat, certain genes like CYP7A1 and PEMT, gallbladder removed.
  • Bitters, artichoke, burdock, dandelion, PC, ox bile, bile salts, TUDCA; bile salts may not help detox as much as digestion.
  • Glutathione does not address most mycotoxins.
  • Pathways for Various Mycotoxins
    • Amino Acid Conjugation - Ochratoxin A
    • Sulfation - Deoxynivalenol, T-2 Toxin
    • Glutathione Conjugation - Aflatoxin B1, Ochratoxin A
    • Methylation Conjugation - Alternariol, Fusarium, Zearalenone
    • Acetylation - Deoxynivalenol, Nivalenol, Riordin E, Verrucarin A
    • Glucuronidation - Diacetoxyscirpenol (Fusarium Type A Trichothecene), Alternariol, Mycophenolic Acid, Aflatoxin B2, Ochratoxin, Deoxynivalenol, Riordin E, Zearalenone, T-2 Toxin, Sterigmatocystin, Verrucarin A
  • Glucuronidation is the major detox pathway for mycotoxins. May make sense to support even in absence of genetic variants.
  • Plant-based enzymes may be grown on Aspergillus.
  • Supports for Various Pathways
    • Amino acid conjugation - dietary protein, betaine, digestive enzyme
    • Sulfation - animal protein, legumes, caffeine, ginger, magnesium sulfate, sulfur vegetables, retinoic acid
    • Glutathione Conjugation - alpha lipoic acid, artichoke, cruciferous vegetables, curcuminoids, folate, magnesium, silymarin, selenium, B6, NAC, S-Acetyl Glutathione, Nrf2 support
    • Methylation - betaine, folate, magnesium, methionine, SAMe, B6, B12, zinc; ONLY when ready; high dose MTHF can trigger MCAS
    • Acetylation - calcium pyruvate, pantothenic acid or pantethine, S-Acetyl Glutathione, glutathione, NAC, N-Acetyl Glucosamine; acetylation has a minor role in breaking down histamine
    • Glucuronidation - astaxanthin, Calcium D Glucarate, dandelion, ellagic acid, pterostilbene, rosemary extract
  • Antifungals - in colonization, OAT fungal markers, sinus symptoms, or hollow spaces like lungs, bladder, vagina
  • Do not use if symptoms improved without the need for them or no indicators of colonization
  • Sinus - silver, antifungals, probiotics
  • Gut - silver, Biocidin, Nystatin, Diflucan, Itraconazole
  • Possibly thyme oil for mold and mycotoxins
  • Biofilm - Lumbrokinase, Interfase, Interfase Plus,; glucose avoidance which makes up component of biofilm

Emily Givler, DSC presented on "Oxalate and Mold: A Secondary Mycotoxin" and shared:

  • Oxalates are a secondary mycotoxin
  • Anti-nutrients are found in plants - spinach, beets, chard, rhubarb - defense mechanism
  • Produced as defense by yeast/fungus/mold in high amounts
  • Small amounts as normal metabolism
  • Mineral chelators of calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, and metals
  • Oxalic acid binds with a mineral and forms crystals; sodium oxalate -> calcium oxalate. Can also have iron oxalate. All insoluble. Body is not going to break down; there can be a shredding mechanism in tissue.
  • May find issues like polyps in sinuses if colonized with fungi producing oxalates.
  • They are a poison; destroy mitochondrial function, alter redox by reducing antioxidants like glutathione and SOD, instigate NADPH steal, halt ATP synthesis.
  • Can be seen as a secondary mycotoxin.
  • Produced by Aspergillus and Penicillium; primarily Aspergillus niger.
  • Calcium oxalate hurts the kidney; can grow into stones. Deposits in brain, lungs, blood vessels, joints, and bones.
  • Hidden source of pain
  • Leads to oxidative damage and depletion of glutathione and NADPH
  • Genetic predisposition, fat malabsorption, leaky gut; allows more absorption
  • Minerals should bind with oxalic acid and then unable to migrate through lumen of gut.
  • Fat malabsorption is a major issue.
  • Mechanisms for elevated oxalates:
    • Low sulfate allows for increase of oxalic acid.
    • High oxalic acid leads to wasting of sulfate.
    • Low citrate can play a role
    • Dysbiosis and low Oxalobacter formigenes
    • Mold exposure to Aspergillus / Penicillium
    • Glyphosate
  • Lyme leading to antibiotic treatment may reduce Oxalobacter formigenes setting the stage for high oxalates; Doxycycline, Tetracycline, Fluoroquinolones leading to floxing
  • No amount of dietary oxalate restriction will bring a mold colonization leading to oxalates to balance.
  • Most clients dealing with oxalates are the result of colonized molds.
  • Can be: kidney stone, cataracts, breast cancer, pulmonary fibrosis, Fibromyalgia, endometriosis, uterine/fibroids, PCOS, thyroid, interstitial cystitis, vulvodynia, arthralgia, osteopenia/porosis, ear crystals/vertigo, diverticulitis, sarcoid
  • Oxalate can trigger NLRP3 inflammasome activation. Will keep you stuck in CDR.
  • Sulfation will be disrupted when oxalates are high - the dominant compound will force the other out into the urine.
  • Measure sulfate excretion with test strips for sulfate/sulfite. Raising sulfate with epsom salt baths can help ti push oxalate out - use caution to not do it too quickly
  • Slow and steady with oxalates
  • Can provoke oxalate dump and more pain
  • Oxalates reduce the excretion of mycotoxins that are handled through sulfation.
  • Even after addressing fungal colonization, have to take separate steps to remove oxalates.
  • Genetic variants such as GRHPR can impact oxalates.
  • Oxalate burden measuring is imperfect.
  • Various fibroids or cysts can be a clue for oxalates.
  • Vitamin B1 can be helpful for lactic acid.
  • Consider mold exposure when oxalic is high on OAT.
  • High dose oral vitamin C can lead to more oxalates if there is a genetic predisposition.
  • Treatment
    • Fix the gut and eliminate the organism causing it when the time is right
    • SLOWLY reduce dietary oxalates 5-10% weekly; goal 50mg/day total
    • Big 4: spinach, swiss chard, rhubarb, beets
    • Bind with calcium citrate 30-60 min before eating; acts as a binder. Magnesium citrate also works.
    • When used as binder, does not count toward RDA needs.
    • B6 important
  • Thyroid nodules and colon polyps may be related to oxalates
  • Take the OAT oxalic in the context of the person's symptoms

Beth O'Hara, FND spoke on "Glucuronidation: The Most Important Phase II Detoxification Pathway" and shared:

  • Glucuronidation conjugates are excreted in bile or urine.
  • 40-75% or more of xenobiotic elimination is through glucuronidation
  • Glucuronidation impacts salicylates
  • Elevated bilirubin or high normal could be clue that glucuronidation is compromised.
  • 40-70% of aspirin, salicylates, NSAIDS, steroids, and many other medications are cleared by this pathway. Overloading the pathway can then impair mycotoxin detox.
  • Nitrosamines - cured meats, tobacco, pesticides. Well-done or blackened meats, fried foods. Benzenes.
  • Phenolics in foods or even in quercetin are cleared by this pathways. Resveratrol and Curcumin stress the pathway.
  • A, D, E, K are broken down by glucuronidation, as are bile acids and CBD
  • Estrogen, testosterone, T3/T4/rT3, Melatonin are all broken down via glucuronidation. Estrogen dominance, elevated rT3 may be clues.
  • Mycotoxins cleared through glucuronidation include: Alternariol, Deoxynivalenol, Diacetoxyscirpenol, Nivalenol, Ochratoxin A and B, Sterigmatocystin, T-2 toxin, Zearalenone 
  • Beta-glucuronidase may be elevated in dysbiosis, glucuronidation impairment, toxin or medication exposure, colon cancer, liver inflammation, cirrhosis, cholestatic jaundice.
  • Glucarate is measured on the Genova ION panel
  • Can be toxicity from pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, petrochemicals, alcohol, medications, GI bacteria toxins, mycotoxins
  • Serum bilirubin may indicate impaired glucuronidation
  • GI MAP and Vibrant Gut Zoomer look at beta-glucuronidase.
  • Gilbert's Syndrome is not benign; decrease in UGT1A1 activity - reduced glucuronidation, clearance of hormones, impaired detox of xenobiotics, mycotoxins, impaired heme production, digestive symptoms, anxiety, porphyrin build-up.
  • Support includes: reducing the load, Calcium D Glucarate, increasing brassicas (cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, arugula) which have glucarate.
  • Glucuronidation Assist is a product she formulated to help with this issue.
  • Want to do binders first but before antifungals
  • Beta-glucuronidase unconjugates glucuronidated compounds.
  • Most people can start with Dandelion and Calcium D Glucarate (500m mg twice a day)
  • May want to incorporate D3/K2 to buffer calcium
  • Usually for detox and pulsed for maintenance
  • Oxalate binding: uses magnesium malate or oxide for those with MCAS. Citrate preferred if tolerated, but comes from fermentation.

Carly Sink and Lari Young, MD spoke on "Mycotoxins and Essential Oils" and shared:

  • Oils can be used topically or via inhalation
  • Antifungal oils include: Clove, Tea Tree, Oregano, Garlic, Cinnamon, Thyme
  • Some oils may prevent mast cell degranulation: Chamomile, Sandalwood, Lemongrass - 40% inhibition; also high anti-TNF activity with lemongrass being the highest.
  • Peppermint, Ginger, Thyme, Marjoram may increase antioxidants and glutathione
  • EMF can cause mold/mycotoxins to be more plentiful and more virulent. Production of biotoxins went up 600 times.
  • There are oils for mitigating EMF via support of redox and calcium channels
  • Topical application - always dilute and patch test; used inside wrist, bottom of feet, back of neck
  • They have a Mycotoxin Wearable Band, Mast Cell Stabilizing Roll On, and Mast Cell or EMF Support Formula
  • https://livingwellnutrition.com/dna-energetics

Bob Miller, CTN talked about "Functional Genomic Nutrition" and shared:

  • He works with Personalized Nutrients to create their formulas.
  • They do small batches of 200-300 at a time to avoid flow agents which sensitive people often react to.
  • As NOX is overstimulated, it uses NADPH excessively
  • Excess mTOR weakens autophagy
  • Autophagy Support supports autophagy and AMPK.
  • ATP Assist supports mitochondria.
  • Aldosto-Ease is a new formula that Bob is very excited about; if ACE2 is not working as renin stimulates angiotensin 1 and 2 and stimulates aldosterone; support for ACE2 to make anti-inflammatory.
  • DBH Assist for Dopamine Beta Hydroxylase; when not turning dopamine to norepinephrine; not nice to people; lowers dopamine.
  • Excito-Blox for glutamate support; glutamate outnumbers other neurotransmitters 100 to 1.
  • Excito-Blox Clarity for stress; milder formula.
  • Excito-Blox Rest for circadian rhythm support
  • Fatty Acid Assist for lipid metabolism and bile.
  • Glucuronidation Assist for support of the glucuronidation pathway.
  • Hista Ease - histamine is increasing dramatically; many have blood pressure drops when standing up. Can be adrenal related. Has adrenal support in the product.
  • DAO Support
  • Hydroxyl Blox supports Fenton reaction; hydrogen peroxide + iron = hydroxyl radicals
  • Immune Assist
  • Krebs / Heme Assist
  • MC-Stabilizer for mast cells (top seller); KIT mutations play a major role
  • Methylation support - do everything else first; then start 1-2 days a week
  • NAD+ and NADPH Assist - supports production; big fans of NAD
  • NMN Plus - NMN can chew through methyl groups.
  • NADPH Protect - calm NOX
  • NOS Activate, NOS Defend, and NOS3 Assist
  • OXA-BLOX - 1-2 per meal to support oxalates
  • Peroxy-Blox - slow peroxynitrite
  • SOD Plus
  • Sulfation Assist
  • SNPs may be 25% of the equation
  • People often have several supplements with methylfolate that adds up and can make them anxious and inflamed
  • https://functionalgenomicnutrition.com/products

Mackay Rippey, LAc presented in "Nitric Oxide and Mycotoxins" and shared:

  • NO is a communication molecule
  • Balanced immune system is a balance between innate (Th1) and adaptive (Th2)
  • Mycotoxins reduce Th1 and increase Th2; setting the stage for chronic inflammation.
  • Histamine piles on; generating IL13 in combination with IL4.
  • Th2 conditions - Candida/mold, sinus, mycotoxins, ear, gut, microbiome, asthma, sleep disorders, sensitivity, allergies, cancer, fibrosis, tumors, anxiety, brain fog, chronic fatigue
  • Th2 dominance may show TGFb1/VEGF elevations
  • NOS1 - skeletal muscle and brain
  • NOS2 - macrophages, mast cells, liver
  • NOS3 - epithelial cells, red blood cells, platelets
  • Macrophages sample PAMPS (pathogens) and DAMPS (damage) and either create NO to inhibit pathogens or ornithine to heal.
  • M1 and M2 macrophages
  • Macrophages drive naïve T-cells to Th2/B cell or Th1/cytotoxic lymphocytes
  • Unbalanced Th2 allows cancer to grow
  • Nitric oxide gets a bad rap, turn that around a little bit.
  • Anti-inflammatory NO attenuates NOX
  • NO calms down mast cells
  • NO reduces preoxynitrite
  • BH4 is the rate limiting factor for the production of NO

The final portion of the event was a panel Q&A which discussed:

  • Stephanie Seneff looks at illness as the body's attempt to fix itself. MCAS happens when everything else is failing. Looking at ways to keep deuterium out of the mitochondria.
    Sandeep Gupta mentioned the connection between fungal colonization, oxalates, and MCAS.
  • Emily Givler mentioned that mold toxicity is there in the majority of her clients and it does not appear to be the results of personal lens.
  • Jill Carnahan mentioned coffee enemas; generally low in caffeine; some do feel an effect though and may need to do earlier in the day. Low MSH leads to permeable tissues. She gets good results even with C4a from LabCorp; has never seen a high C4a from National Jewish.
  • Andrew Campbell mentioned that IgG persists in infections but not in toxins; will fade away within weeks of having nothing to react to.
  • Beth O'Hara mentioned that high methyl donors stimulate mTOR which stimulates MCAS; methylation support is not tolerated early on.
  • Emily Givler likes Takesumi Supreme and MediClay; need clean sources.
  • Sandeep Gupta mentioned iodine can be helpful in a nasal rinse or neti pot. ArminLabs may be a good option for Mycoplasma testing.
  • Jill Carnahan mentioned Biocidin in a nasal spray was shown to be helpful in children followed with urine mycotoxin testing (isotonic saline and 12 pumps of Biocidin). With constipation with binders, methane SIBO could be an explanation. Fungal dysbiosis and colonization and tick-borne issues like Ehrlichia can impact the vagus nerve and slow motility. Chlorella and OptiFiber Lean may be better options for those with constipation. Need HEPA and VOC filters like Austin Air, Air Doctor, or IQAir. Does not find people do well with filters that create hydroxyls if they have MCS. Hydrogen SIBO is relatively easy to treat; methane SIBO is difficult to treat and frequency returns; often due to tick-borne infections and vagus nerve impact. Helpful tools may be: LDN, low dose erythromycin, Motegrity, and Iberogast.
  • Andrew Campbell mentioned that mycotoxins impact estrogen and testosterone in men and women. Demyelination of the vagus nerve leads to gastroparaesis. IgG with no IgE on his panel means the person is still reacting and still exposed.
  • Emily Givler mentioned that goitregens in food are often inactivated by light steaming. Saccharomyces boulardii should be taken with food.
  • Stephanie Seneff mentioned that no amount of glyphosate is safe.

Disclaimer: While I attempted to accurately represent the statements of the various speakers, it is possible that the above contains errors or inaccuracies. If you have any corrections to the content listed above, please Contact Me. 

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  BetterHealthGuy.com is intended to share my personal experience in recovering from my own chronic illness.  Information presented is based on my journey working with my doctors and other practitioners as well as things I have learned from conferences and other helpful resources.  As always, any medical decisions should be made only with the guidance of your own personal medical authority.  Everyone is unique and what may be right for me may not be right for others.   

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