Mycotoxins and Autoimmunity: Understanding the Hidden Triggers in Your Food
- Dr. Brendan McLaughlin
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In my practice, I often see patients who have been to multiple specialists, tried numerous medications, and made significant lifestyle changes, yet still struggle with persistent symptoms and autoimmune conditions. What many of these patients don’t realize is that a hidden trigger may be lurking in their food: mycotoxins.
What Are Mycotoxins?
Mycotoxins are toxic compounds naturally produced by certain types of molds (fungi). These molds can grow on various foods, particularly grains, nuts, coffee beans, dried fruits, and spices when stored in warm, humid conditions. Unlike mold that you might visibly see on food, mycotoxins can be present without any visible signs of contamination. While eating contaminated food is the primary source of exposure, mycotoxins can also enter our system via skin contact and inhalation as mycotoxins can get airborne on fungal spores and other inhalable particles.
How Mycotoxins Trigger Autoimmunity
Mycotoxins can play a significant role in many health challenges but in our office, we often see them as a part of the clinical picture in the development and exacerbation of autoimmune conditions. While each person’s susceptibility varies due to their overall toxic burden, circadian biology and gut health, there are several well-documented mechanisms by which mycotoxins can trigger autoimmune responses:
1. Intestinal Hyperpermeability ("Leaky Gut")
Mycotoxins like deoxynivalenol (DON) and ochratoxin A directly damage the tight junction proteins that maintain intestinal barrier integrity. When these tight junctions are compromised, larger food particles, toxins, and microbial components can pass through the intestinal wall into the bloodstream. This breach triggers immune surveillance and can initiate autoimmune processes through:
- Increased exposure of the immune system to previously sequestered proteins
- Activation of pattern recognition receptors that stimulate inflammatory cascades
- Enhanced presentation of food antigens to immune cells, potentially establishing molecular mimicry
- Chronic stimulation of the immune system at the gut lining (mucosa)
2. Molecular Mimicry
One of the most compelling mechanisms linking mycotoxins to autoimmunity is molecular mimicry. Molecular mimicry occurs when mycotoxins or mycotoxin-modified proteins have structural similarities to human tissues. When this happens, the immune system creates antibodies against these mycotoxin-related structures and these antibodies subsequently cross-react with the body’s own tissues due to structural similarities
For example, research suggests that certain mycotoxins have protein sequences similar to those found in thyroid tissue. When the immune system mounts a response against these mycotoxins, the antibodies may also attack thyroid tissue, potentially contributing to conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
3. Immune System Dysregulation
Mycotoxins profoundly affect both innate (our first line of defense) and adaptive (learned response to particular pathogens) immune function in ways that can predispose to autoimmunity:
- T-cell Imbalance: T-cells are specific types of white blood cell that play a central role in our immune systems. Mycotoxins like aflatoxin and trichothecenes can alter the balance between different T-cell populations (Th1, Th2, Th17, and Treg cells). This imbalance is particularly relevant for autoimmunity, as a shift away from regulatory T-cells (Tregs) toward inflammatory Th17 cells is a hallmark of many autoimmune conditions.
- Dendritic Cell Activation: Mycotoxins can activate dendritic cells, the primary antigen-presenting cells that instruct T-cells whether to mount an immune response. When inappropriately activated, dendritic cells can present self-antigens to T-cells, potentially initiating autoimmune reactions.
- Cytokine Disruption: Mycotoxins also can alter cytokine production (small proteins that act as chemical messengers in the body within the immune system), often increasing pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) while decreasing anti-inflammatory ones (IL-10). This inflammatory environment promotes tissue damage and further immune dysregulation.
- Inflammasome Activation: Certain mycotoxins activate the NLRP3 inflammasome, a protein complex that triggers the release of IL-1β and IL-18 cytokines which are strongly associated with autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis.
4. Toxic Burden and Cellular Stress
Mycotoxins contribute to the body’s overall toxic burden, triggering cellular stress responses that can precipitate autoimmunity through various mechanisms:
- Oxidative Stress: Mycotoxins dramatically increase reactive oxygen species (ROS) production while depleting antioxidant defenses like glutathione. This oxidative stress can damage cellular proteins, creating neo-antigens the immune system may recognize as foreign. Oxidative stress can also modify DNA, potentially exposing nuclear antigens that can trigger autoantibody formation and activate stress-response pathways that enhance inflammatory signaling.
- Mitochondrial Dysfunction: Many mycotoxins directly impair mitochondrial function, leading to decreased energy production and increased oxidative stress. This is important because mitochondrial dysfunction is increasingly recognized as a factor in autoimmune conditions like lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Impaired Detoxification: Mycotoxins can readily overwhelm and impair the body’s detoxification pathways which can lead to accumulation of toxins and metabolic waste within the body and as a result prolong exposure to immune-stimulating compounds. Impaired detoxification can also deplete key nutrients essential for immune regulation. The net result of impaired detoxification is increased inflammation throughout the body which can precipitate autoimmunity.
5. Endocrine Disruption
Several mycotoxins, particularly zearalenone, act as endocrine disruptors. These mycotoxins can bind to estrogen receptors, disrupting hormonal signaling, interfere with thyroid hormone production and affect adrenal function and cortisol production.
These hormonal imbalances can influence immune function and potentially trigger or exacerbate autoimmune conditions, particularly those with known hormonal components like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
6. Microbiome Disruption
It is well known that the gut microbiome plays a crucial role in immune regulation and tolerance. Mycotoxin exposure can affect the microbiome directly via altering the gut microbiota composition, reducing beneficial species while promoting the growth of pathogenic organisms. Mycotoxins can also disrupt the production of short-chain fatty acids that maintain gut barrier integrity and interfere with the microbiome’s role in training regulatory immune cells
These disruptions can create dysbiosis, a state associated with numerous autoimmune conditions due to its effects on immune development and function.
As you can see, through various mechanisms mycotoxins can disrupt our immune systems leading us down a path towards autoimmunity or exacerbate pre-existing autoimmune conditions. In my clinical experience, remediating mycotoxin exposure in patients with autoimmune conditions leads to significant symptom improvement and wellbeing.
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Key Types of Mycotoxins and Their Impact
Now that we understand how mycotoxins can affect our immune systems it is crucial to understand the specific mycotoxins that may be affecting us as if we work on mycotoxin remediation but have repeated exposures, lasting healing won’t be possible.
In our clinical experience there are a few key mycotoxins that often precipitate immune dysregulation.
1. Aflatoxins
Produced by: Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus fungi
Common food sources:
- Corn and corn products
- Peanuts and peanut butter
- Tree nuts (especially pistachios and almonds)
- Cottonseed
- Spices (particularly paprika and chili)
- Dried fruits
- Milk (from animals consuming contaminated feed)
Potential health effects: Aflatoxins are among the most carcinogenic natural substances known. Beyond their cancer-promoting properties, aflatoxins can:
- Impair protein synthesis
- Suppress immune function
- Contribute to oxidative stress
- Interfere with gut barrier function
- Disrupt the microbiome
Regulatory status: The FDA has established action levels for aflatoxins in human foods and animal feeds, recognizing their serious health implications. That said many of the above foods still contain unsafe levels of aflatoxins and when we combine that with the fact that many of these foods also contain pesticides it is a perfect storm for autoimmunity.
2. Ochratoxins
Produced by: Aspergillus ochraceus, Aspergillus carbonarius, and Penicillium verrucosum
Common food sources:
- Coffee beans
- Wine and grape juice
- Cereals (wheat, barley, oats)
- Dried fruits (especially raisins)
- Cocoa and chocolate
- Spices
- Beer
- Aged and fermented meats
Potential health effects: Ochratoxin A (OTA) is the most common and studied form. It has demonstrated:
- Nephrotoxicity (kidney damage)
- Immunosuppressive effects
- Neurotoxicity
- Potential teratogenic effects (birth defects)
- Disruption of mitochondrial function
- Promotion of oxidative stress
- Inhibition of protein synthesis
- Disruption of calcium homeostasis
In my practice, I’ve observed that patients with elevated ochratoxin levels often present with neurological symptoms and kidney stress markers on their labs.
3. Fumonisins
Produced by: Fusarium species, particularly Fusarium verticillioides
Common food sources:
- Corn and corn-based products (cornmeal, corn flour, corn chips)
- Rice
- Sorghum
- Occasionally in beer (from contaminated grains)
Potential health effects: Fumonisins disrupt sphingolipid metabolism, which can lead to:
- Neural tube defects
- Liver damage
- Kidney toxicity
- Esophageal cancer (in regions with high exposure)
- Immune system dysfunction
- Intestinal barrier damage
- Altered cytokine production
4. Trichothecenes
This large family includes several important mycotoxins:
Deoxynivalenol (DON or “Vomitoxin”)
Produced by: Fusarium graminearum and other Fusarium species
Common food sources:
- Wheat and wheat products (bread, pasta)
- Barley
- Corn
- Oats
- Rye
- Animal products from animals that are fed the above
Potential health effects:
- Potent inhibitor of protein synthesis
- Gastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
- Immune system alterations
- Disruption of gut barrier function
- Neurological effects (fatigue, headaches)
- Hormonal disruption
- Chronic migraines
- Overgrowth of saccharomyces cerevisiae
5. T-2 Toxin and HT-2 Toxin
Produced by: Various Fusarium species
Common food sources:
- Oats
- Barley
- Wheat
- Rye
- Corn
- Rice
Potential health effects
- Extremely potent inhibitors of protein synthesis
- Skin irritation and inflammation
- Digestive system damage
- Blood cell depletion
- Immune suppression
- Cell death in various tissues
These are among the most acutely toxic mycotoxins and may contribute to autoimmunity and autoimmune flares.
6. Zearalenone
Produced by: Fusarium species, particularly Fusarium graminearum
Common food sources:
- Corn
- Wheat
- Barley
- Oats
- Sorghum
- Animal products (from livestock fed contaminated grains)
Potential health effects: Zearalenone is a potent endocrine disruptor with estrogenic activity that can:
- Bind to estrogen receptors
- Disrupt hormonal balance
- Cause reproductive issues
- Contribute to breast tissue changes
- Affect thyroid function
- Interfere with immune regulation
I often find elevated zearalenone levels in patients with hormonal imbalances, particularly those with estrogen dominance patterns and women with PCOS.
7. Patulin
Produced by: Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Byssochlamys species
Common food sources:
- Apple juice and apple products
- Pears
- Berries
- Other fruits with brown rot
Potential health effects:
- Gastrointestinal inflammation
- Immunotoxicity
- Neurotoxicity
- DNA damage
- Disruption of the gut microbiome
- Potential developmental effects
8. Citrinin
Produced by: Penicillium citrinum and some Aspergillus species
Common food sources:
- Rice and rice products
- Wheat
- Corn
- Barley
- Oats
- Fermented foods (some cheeses, sake)
- Fruits (particularly red fruit)
Potential health effects:
- Nephrotoxicity (kidney damage)
- Immunomodulation
- Oxidative stress
- Mitochondrial dysfunction
- Endoplasmic reticulum stress
- Cell death mechanisms
9. Gliotoxin
Produced by: Aspergillus fumigatus and some other fungi
Sources: While less common in food, gliotoxin can be produced by molds in water-damaged buildings and can colonize the human respiratory tract and gut.
Potential health effects:
- Potent immunosuppression
- Triggers cell death in immune cells
- Interferes with NF-κB signaling (crucial for immune function)
- Promotes inflammation
- Disrupts antioxidant systems
- May contribute to multiple autoimmune mechanisms
This mycotoxin is particularly relevant for patients with both building-related illness and autoimmune conditions.
Synergistic Effects
It’s important to note that in real-world exposure, we rarely encounter just one mycotoxin. Foods can be contaminated with multiple mycotoxins simultaneously, and research suggests these toxins can have synergistic effects, meaning their combined impact may be greater than the sum of their individual effects. This is particularly relevant when addressing autoimmune conditions as when we have profound immune dysregulation it is not simply due to one source.
Mycotoxins and Specific Autoimmune Conditions
We now know that mycotoxin exposure can be incredibly damaging to our health. With respect to autoimmune disease I have observed connections between mycotoxin exposure and several autoimmune conditions:
- Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis: Ochratoxin A is often a trigger for autoimmune thyroid conditions by increasing thyroid peroxidase antibodies.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: In patients with RA, I see mycotoxin exposure exacerbating joint inflammation and contributing to symptom flares in RA patients.
- Multiple Sclerosis: Due to their ability to cross the blood brain barrier I have seen mycotoxins be a key component in MS as they can damage myelin, the protective covering around nerve fibers that is attacked in MS.
- Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Many lupus patients that I have seen have mycotoxins as a part of their clinical picture as mycotoxins contribute to immune complex formation and tissue damage characteristic of lupus.
Signs You May Be Affected by Mycotoxins
Mycotoxin sensitivity can present with a wide range of symptoms, including:
- Fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest
- Brain fog and cognitive difficulties
- Recurrent headaches
- Joint and muscle pain
- Gastrointestinal issues (bloating, abdominal pain, irregular bowel movements)
- Unexplained weight gain
- Skin rashes or unexplained skin problems
- Increased sensitivity to chemicals and fragrances
- Worsening of existing autoimmune symptoms after consuming mycotoxin-rich foods
Testing for Mycotoxins: A Comprehensive Approach
So how do we determine if mycotoxins are a part of our clinical picture of autoimmunity? Leveraging the correct tests is crucial for identifying mycotoxin exposure and creating targeted treatment protocols. While symptoms can provide clues, objective testing helps confirm exposure and guide personalized interventions.
Comprehensive Mycotoxin Testing Options
1. Urine Mycotoxin Testing
Urine testing is currently the gold standard for assessing mycotoxin exposure. These tests measure mycotoxins and their metabolites that the body is attempting to excrete. It is important to note that when mycotoxins show up on a urine test it means that these are overflowing from the gut due to an inflamed gastrointestinal system that cannot contain the toxins.
Important considerations for urine testing:
- A provocation protocol (using glutathione, sauna therapy, or ultrasound) before testing can help mobilize stored mycotoxins for more accurate detection
- Hydration status can affect results
- Patients with impaired detoxification may show falsely low levels due to poor excretion ability
- Sequential testing may be necessary to monitor treatment progress
In our office we typically use the The Vibrant Wellness Total Tox Burden test as this advanced panel tests 31 different mycotoxins and goes beyond just mycotoxins to include heavy metals, chemicals, pesticides and other environmental exposures to provide a more complete picture of exposures that may be contributing to immune dysregulation.
2. Blood Markers
In addition to comprehensive urine testing, we leverage specific blood markers to look at the state of the gastrointestinal lining and the overall effect of mycotoxins on the immune system. This often includes markers from the Inflammation and Immune Function Panel:
Intestinal Permeability Testing:
- Zonulin levels (blood test)
Inflammatory Markers:
- High-sensitivity C-reactive protein
- Erythrocyte sedimentation rate
- Cytokine panels
- TGF-beta 1 (often elevated with mold exposure)
Immune Function:
- Complete blood count with differential
- Immunoglobulin levels (IgG, IgA, IgM, IgE)
- Complement components (C3, C4)
- NK cell function
- Lymphocyte subsets
Hormonal Assessment, often using the Comprehensive Hormones Panel, which includes:
- Thyroid panel (including antibodies)
- Adrenal function (cortisol rhythm)
- Sex hormone balance
3. Autonomic Response Testing
Once we have completed blood and urine testing we leverage Autonomic Response Testing to determine what specific mycotoxins are influencing the immune system, if there is limitations in the body’s ability to detoxify and what specific remedies are needed to remediate the mycotoxin exposure.
When we utilize this combination of testing we get a clear picture on exactly how mycotoxins are affecting the body and immune system alongside what needs to be done to remediate this toxic burden.
When to Consider Testing:
Mycotoxins are often a part of the clinical picture in autoimmunity but it is important to test for mycotoxins specifically when your health history contains the following:
- Have unexplained fatigue, cognitive issues, or multi-system symptoms
- Show autoimmune markers or diagnosed autoimmune conditions not responding to standard treatment
- Live or work in water-damaged buildings
- Have visible mold in their home or workplace
- Experience symptoms that worsen in certain environments
- Show patterns of inflammation that don’t respond to usual interventions
- Have a history of recurrent sinusitis or respiratory issues
- Present with treatment-resistant gastrointestinal problems
Treatment
Reducing Mycotoxin Exposure in Your Diet
Once we have understood that mycotoxins are a part of the clinical picture, the important first step is to eliminate continued exposure and this starts with food.
1. Choose Fresh Foods When Possible
Fresh, properly stored foods generally contain lower levels of mycotoxins than processed foods. Shop frequently for smaller quantities rather than storing foods for extended periods.
2. Store Foods Properly
- Keep grains, nuts, and seeds in cool, dry places
- Use airtight containers to prevent moisture
- Refrigerate sensitive items, especially in humid climates
3. Be Selective About Higher-Risk Foods
- Coffee: Choose organic, high-quality brands that test for mycotoxins
- Nuts and Seeds: Purchase from reputable sources, store properly, and consider soaking and dehydrating them before eating them
- Grains: Opt for fresh, properly stored grains and consider alternatives like quinoa and millet
- Corn and Corn Products: These frequently contain fumonisin and other mycotoxins; my recommendation is to limit regular consumption
Natural Compounds for Mycotoxin Mitigation
In addition to diet, specific remediation of mycotoxins using natural compounds is an essential part of any treatment program. While I have found several natural compounds that can assist with mycotoxin detoxification and protection against their harmful effects one of the best remedies I have found is propolis.
Propolis: Nature's Defense Against Mycotoxins
Propolis is a resinous substance collected by honeybees from tree buds, sap flows, and other botanical sources. Bees use propolis to seal unwanted open spaces in their hive, creating a protective barrier against pathogens including mold and mycotoxins. This natural defense mechanism that protects beehives translates remarkably well to human health.
Benefits of Propolis for Mycotoxin Exposure:
1. Direct Antifungal Properties:
Propolis contains numerous flavonoids, phenolic acids, and terpenoids that demonstrate potent antifungal activity against mycotoxin-producing molds. Studies show it can inhibit the growth of Aspergillus, Penicillium, and Fusarium species the primary fungi responsible for mycotoxin production in foods and environments.
2. Mycotoxin Binding and Neutralization:
Research indicates that certain compounds in propolis can:
- Bind to mycotoxins in the digestive tract, preventing absorption
- Neutralize the reactive oxygen species generated by mycotoxins
- Modify the chemical structure of some mycotoxins, reducing their toxicity
3. Hepatoprotective Effects:
Most of the time the liver bears the brunt of mycotoxin detoxification. Multiple studies demonstrate propolis can protect liver cells from oxidative damage caused by aflatoxins, support Phase I and Phase II liver detoxification pathways, enhance liver glutathione levels, crucial for mycotoxin detoxification and reduce liver inflammation triggered by mycotoxin exposure.
4. Immunomodulatory Benefits:
Propolis helps counter the immunosuppressive effects of many mycotoxins through restoration of natural killer (NK) cell activity, modulation of cytokine production, regulation of T-cell function and reduction of inflammatory responses.
5. Intestinal Barrier Support:
As we have discussed many mycotoxins damage the intestinal lining, leading to increased permeability. The good news is propolis has been shown to strengthen tight junctions between intestinal cells, reduce intestinal inflammation, support beneficial gut microbiota while inhibiting pathogenic fungal growth in the intestinal tract.
In our office we often use a combination of propolis capsules, tinctures and nasal sprays to effectively remediate mycotoxins in different systems of the body concurrently.
Other Beneficial Natural Compounds for Mycotoxin Exposure
In addition to propolis, these natural compounds have proven to be beneficial in addressing mycotoxin-related in our office:
- Chlorella and Spirulina: These algae contain chlorophyll and other compounds that may help bind to and eliminate mycotoxins, particularly aflatoxins.
- Activated Charcoal: An effective binder for many mycotoxins, particularly when taken away from meals and other supplements.
- Bentonite Clay: Has a high binding capacity for aflatoxins and some other mycotoxins.
- Saccharomyces boulardii: This beneficial yeast can help neutralize certain mycotoxins in the intestinal tract.
- Diindolylmethane (DIM): Supports healthy estrogen metabolism, helping counter the endocrine-disrupting effects of zearalenone.
- Modified Citrus Pectin: Binds to toxins while sparing beneficial minerals, making it gentle for longer-term use.
- Silymarin (Milk Thistle): Provides powerful liver support and has been shown to protect against aflatoxin-induced liver damage.
- Curcumin: Offers broad anti-inflammatory and antioxidant protection against mycotoxin-induced oxidative stress.
- N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC): A precursor to glutathione that supports detoxification of various mycotoxins.
A Holistic Approach to Autoimmunity
Remember that mycotoxins represent just one potential trigger for autoimmune conditions. A comprehensive approach should address:
- Food sensitivities and allergies
- Gut health and microbiome balance
- Circadian rhythms
- Sleep quality
- Nutrient status
- Hormonal balance
- Additional environmental exposures
Final Thoughts
I’ve witnessed remarkable improvements in many autoimmune patients when mycotoxin exposure is identified and addressed. For those struggling with autoimmune conditions, especially when conventional approaches haven’t provided adequate relief, investigating mycotoxin exposure may offer valuable insights and a path toward healing.
Your health journey is unique, and addressing mycotoxin exposure is just one piece of a comprehensive approach to autoimmunity. If you’re struggling with autoimmune symptoms, I encourage you book a complimentary call with us so we can learn more about your health journey and work to develop a personalized healing program that’s right for you.
*Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet or treatment plan, especially if you have an autoimmune condition.
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