As a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner and Functional Diagnostic Nutritionist, one of the growing concerns I address with parents is the impact of mycotoxins on children’s health. Mycotoxins are toxic compounds produced by mold and fungi, and exposure to them can have serious effects on children’s developing bodies.  In this blog, we’ll explore what mycotoxins are, how they affect children, and what you can do to protect your family.

What Are Mycotoxins?

There are two types of mold: environmental mold and toxic mold.

• Environmental mold includes the types that cause common allergic reactions like sneezing, itching, and sniffles, as well as molds used in foods like blue cheese. These molds aren’t harmful.
• Toxic mold, however, produces mycotoxins—dangerous byproducts released as part of their growth process. Think of them like “mold farts.” Molds like aspergillus, penicillium, fusarium, and stachybotrys grow on damp surfaces, food, or crops, releasing toxins into the air you breathe or food you eat. These mycotoxins are harmful—they can damage your liver and kidneys, weaken your immune system, and cause long-term health problems.

Mold thrives in damp, warm, poorly ventilated spaces like bathrooms, basements, kitchens, and even in HVAC systems or carpets. Unfortunately, even brand new homes multi-million dollar homes can be vulnerable to mold growth.

Certain foods are also more likely to contain mycotoxins, especially if they were improperly stored or processed. These include grains, nuts, coffee beans, dried fruits, dairy from animals fed contaminated feed, spices, and alcohol.

How Do Mycotoxins Affect Children’s Health?

Children’s bodies are still developing, making them more vulnerable to the effects of environmental toxins, including mycotoxins. When children are exposed to mycotoxins, whether through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact, they may experience a range of health issues. Some of the potential impacts of mycotoxins on children’s health include:

1. Respiratory Problems: Exposure to mold spores and mycotoxins can irritate the respiratory system, leading to coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. In some cases, children may develop asthma or other chronic respiratory conditions.
2. Neurological Effects: Mycotoxins can affect brain function, potentially leading to issues such as difficulty concentrating, memory problems, headaches, and even mood changes. Children may show signs of irritability, anxiety, or depression as a result of mycotoxin exposure.
3. Immune System Disruption: Mycotoxins can weaken the immune system, making children more susceptible to infections. Chronic exposure may also increase the risk of autoimmune disorders and inflammatory conditions.
4. Developmental Delays and Learning Issues: There is growing evidence that exposure to mycotoxins may interfere with cognitive development in children. Learning difficulties, behavioral problems, and delays in speech or motor skills have been linked to mold exposure.
5. Digestive Problems: Mycotoxins can irritate the gut, leading to digestive issues such as bloating, diarrhea, constipation, or nausea. These gut disturbances can be more pronounced in children with sensitive or developing digestive systems.
6. Bedwetting: Mycotoxins may disrupt endocrine function, including the secretion of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which helps regulate nighttime urine production. Low ADH levels can result in increased urine output at night, contributing to bedwetting.

Signs of Mycotoxin Exposure in Children

It’s not always easy to spot mycotoxin exposure, but there are several signs parents should watch for:

• Frequent respiratory issues such as coughing, sneezing, or asthma-like symptoms
• Fatigue, headaches, or trouble concentrating
• Skin rashes or allergic reactions
• Digestive complaints like bloating, diarrhea, or constipation
• Changes in behavior or mood (e.g., irritability, anxiety)
• Developmental delays or learning difficulties
• Bedwetting

If your child is showing any of these symptoms, especially in combination, it could be worth investigating mold or mycotoxin exposure as a possible cause.

What Can Parents Do to Protect Their Children?

Fortunately, there are several steps parents can take to reduce their child’s exposure to mycotoxins and protect their health:

1. Inspect Your Home for Mold: Check areas that are prone to dampness, such as basements, bathrooms, and attics. If you notice visible mold or musty odors, take action immediately by cleaning the area and improving ventilation. DO NOT USE BLEACH!  Specialized cleaners and protection is needed to properly clean mold that is found.  
2. Control Indoor Humidity: Mold thrives in damp environments, so keeping indoor humidity levels below 50% can help prevent mold growth. Use dehumidifiers in high-moisture areas and ensure good airflow throughout the home.
3. Consider Mold Testing: An easy, inexpensive way to test for mold is to order mold plates and place them around your home.  Once they are sent back to the lab, you will receive a report with any mold spores that are detected and whether or not they are toxic to your family’s health.
4. Support Detoxification: If your child has been exposed to mycotoxins, supporting their body’s detoxification processes can help. A functional pediatric provider can guide you in supporting your child’s liver, gut, and immune system to help detoxify harmful substances.
5. Consult with a Pediatric Provider trained in Mold Illness: If you suspect that mycotoxin exposure has affected your child’s health, working with a pediatric provider can help. Through specialized testing, lifestyle adjustments, and targeted supplementation, we can help restore balance and improve your child’s overall well-being.

Conclusion

Mycotoxins are a hidden threat to children’s health, but with awareness and proactive measures, you can reduce the risk of exposure. By tackling mold in your home, supporting your child’s immune and detox systems, and partnering with a functional pediatric provider, you can protect your child’s health and create a safe, healthy environment for them to grow up in.

If you’re concerned about mycotoxin exposure or if your child is experiencing health issues that could be related to mold, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can create a plan to protect your child’s health and well-being.

Let’s All Live Simply Nourished- 

Lauren Bauer, APRN, FDN-P