The Hidden World of Mold Part 3: Testing & Solutions

Last updated: March 2025

Mold is a complicated topic. In Part 1, we explored how mold can be both beneficial and harmful, highlighting its presence in homes and its potential health effects. In Part 2, we examined mold in food sources and how mycotoxins can impact health. Now, in Part 3, we’ll focus on how to test for mold exposure and effective solutions to detox and remediate your environment.

Mold exposure can have a profound impact on health, but identifying and addressing it can be complex. If you've been experiencing persistent symptoms like brain fog, fatigue, respiratory issues, or skin sensitivities, mold toxins may be a hidden factor.

How to Test for Mold Exposure

If you suspect mold is affecting your health, testing can provide valuable insights. Here are the most effective ways to detect mold in both your environment and body:

Testing for Mold in Your Home:

• ERMI Test (Environmental Relative Moldiness Index) – Uses a dust sample to analyze the presence of mold spores and mycotoxins.

• Mold Test Kits – Detect airborne mold spores by leaving a dish open in your home and analyzing the growth.

• Air Quality & Surface Sampling – Professional mold inspectors can take air and surface samples to determine contamination levels. Find a qualified inspector in your area

Testing for Mold in Your Body:

• Urine Mycotoxin Test – Identifies mold toxins your body has absorbed and is trying to eliminate. Speak with your provider to order the appropriate test.

• Visual Contrast Sensitivity (VCS) Test – Screens for neurological effects linked to mold exposure by testing visual perception.

• Bloodwork – Markers like C-reactive protein (CRP), TGF-beta1, and C4a levels can indicate mold-related inflammation.

If your results suggest mold exposure, the next step is removing the source and supporting detoxification.

How to Remove Mold from Your Environment

Addressing mold exposure starts with eliminating the source. If mold is found in your home, consider these key steps:

• Identify & Fix Water Leaks – Mold thrives in moisture; fixing leaks prevents further growth.

• Improve Ventilation & Use Dehumidifiers – Keep indoor humidity below 50% to prevent mold proliferation.

• HEPA Air Purifiers – High-efficiency particulate air filters can help trap airborne mold spores.

• Professional Mold Remediation – If contamination is significant, hiring a certified mold specialist is the safest option.

How to Detox from Mold Exposure

Once exposure is minimized, supporting your body’s natural detox pathways is crucial. Here are the most effective ways to flush out mycotoxins and reduce symptoms:

Sweat it Out – Infrared sauna therapy helps eliminate fat-soluble toxins through the skin.

Lymphatic Drainage - The lymphatic system helps move toxins from connective tissue back into circulation so it can be processed to leave your body through your liver and kidneys.

Liver Support – Your liver is key to detoxification. Supplements like Glutathione, NAC, and **Milk Thistle aid in processing mold toxins.

Gallbladder Support - Your gallbladder regulates the flow of bile and fat soluble toxins out of the liver into your digestive tract.  Don't worry if you don't have a gallbladder, you will still benefit from taking bile acids (like Ox Bile or **Tudca) as a way to move fat soluble toxins out of the body

Binders – Activated charcoal, bentonite clay, humic / fulvic acid and zeolite bind to toxins in the intestines, preventing reabsorption.

Electrolyte Balance – Mycotoxins can disrupt mineral balance, so replenishing magnesium, potassium, and sodium is essential.

Nutrient-Dense Diet – Eating whole foods rich in antioxidants, fiber, and sulfur-containing vegetables (garlic, onions, cruciferous veggies) and ensure enough quality protein are all important ways to support detox pathways.

By combining testing, remediation, and detox strategies, you can take control of mold exposure and support long-term wellness.

📌 What's next? We’ll be sharing Spring Detox strategies, focusing on seasonal cleansing to reset and rejuvenate your body!

This blog was originally a collaboration between Dr. Morrison and Tapp Francke, CNS.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease

**These products are available online for TMC patients only. If you are not a TMC patient and interested in learning more about it, please call the TMC office at 212-989-9828.