Lauren Lemke
BA, RHN, NNCP
YOW Wellness
YOWWellness.com
Lauren@yowwellness.com
My name is Lauren Lemke, and I am a Nutritional Counselor/ Holistic Nutritionist. I specialize in mould and the effects that it has on the body. This is near and dear to my heart since my children and I have both suffered from mould toxicity. Once we realized what was making us sick we were able to rebalance our bodies and start thriving again. I hope that I can help my community by bringing awareness to the effects that mould has on the body and help to regain mental, emotional and physical strength.
Mould is a common problem in many households, often thriving in damp, warm environments. While it may seem minor, mould can pose significant health risks, especially for 25% of the population with a specific gene type. Understanding the causes of mould growth, its potential health effects, and prevention strategies is essential for maintaining a safe and healthy home.
What is Mould?
Mould is a fungus that can grow on various surfaces, including wood, drywall, and fabric. It reproduces by releasing spores into the air, which can be inhaled or settle on surfaces. There are thousands of mould species, but common household molds include Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Stachybotrys, often referred to as "black mould."
Causes of Mould Growth
Mould thrives in environments with:
Moisture: Water leaks, high humidity, and condensation create ideal conditions for mould growth.
Poor Ventilation: Insufficient airflow allows humidity to build up, especially in basements, bathrooms, and kitchens.
Organic Material: Mould feeds on organic substances, such as wood, paper, and fabric.
Health Effects of Mould Exposure
Mould exposure can lead to various health issues, particularly for those with the HLA genetic mutation or overstimulated systems due to stress or chronic infections. Twenty-five percent of the population carry this gene without knowing it. Mould tends to be the silent bucket filler of toxicity. Common health effects include:
Respiratory Issues: Inhalation of mould spores can cause coughing, sneezing, nasal congestion, and throat irritation. Repeating bouts of pneumonia or bronchitis could be present.
Mental/ Emotional Issues: Anxiety, depression, and mood swings
Muscular Issues: Chronic fatigue, weakness, muscle aches and cramps, joint pain with morning stiffness, and numbness.
GI Issues: Abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, frequent urination, and weight gain.
Whole System Reactions: Mould can trigger skin rashes, itchy eyes, headaches, vibrational feeling in the chest, heart palpitations, and even early onset dementia.
Infections: Individuals may be more susceptible to mould-related infections, especially pulmonary issues such as pneumonia and chronic cough/ sinus congestion.
Toxic Effects: Some moulds produce mycotoxins, which can lead to more severe health effects, such as neurological problems, gut dysfunction (SIBO/IBS), and immune system suppression.
TOXIC (Nathan, 2018)
Prevention Strategies
Preventing mould growth requires a proactive approach:
Control Moisture: Fix leaks promptly, use dehumidifiers in damp areas, and ensure proper drainage around the home.
Improve Ventilation: Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, and consider opening windows to promote airflow.
Regular Cleaning: Clean and dry any damp or wet areas swiftly to prevent mold growth. Keep dust to the minimum since mycotoxins live and thrive in the particulates.
Use Mould-Resistant Products: When building or renovating, consider using mould-resistant materials, especially in high-moisture areas.
Monitor Indoor Humidity: Keep indoor humidity levels below 50% using humidistats or moisture meters.
TEST your home- I offer in house testing through Envirobiomics, a specialty lab that assesses mold/mycotoxin levels in your home. I also offer lab testing to check the individual mycotoxin levels in your body.
Conclusion
Mould in homes can lead to serious health issues. By understanding the causes and effects of mould, homeowners can take proactive measures to prevent its growth and protect the health of their families. Regular maintenance, proper ventilation, and moisture control are key to maintaining a mould-free environment. If mould growth is suspected or detected, it’s essential to address the issue promptly and test your home with a reliable mould assessment company like the one I offer. Feel free to contact me for a free 15-minute consultation, and we can determine the next steps. I offer both mycotoxin testing of the home and the person. Insurance Accepted through Nutritional Counseling.