All about the gut

All about the gut

Mycotoxins disrupt the gut and alter digestion. This is one of the most common signs of mold toxicity. That is why behind each "gut patient" we should think about mycotoxins as one of the causes. Let's have a look about the mechanisms in which mycotoxins disrupt the gut:

1. They damage the epithelial barrier:

• Mycotoxins such as DON and T-2 toxin damage tight junction proteins (e.g. claudins, occludin, ZO-1) that hold intestinal epithelial cells together.

• This increases intestinal permeability (“leaky gut”), allowing toxins, microbes, and antigens to enter circulation.

2. They produce dysbiosis (imbalances in the microbiota)

• Mycotoxins alter the gut microbiome composition—reducing beneficial bacteria (like Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium) and promoting opportunistic/pathogenic species.

• Dysbiosis leads to:

  • Reduced production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)

  • Impaired mucosal immunity

  • Chronic low-grade inflammation

3. They produce oxidative stress and inflammation

• Mycotoxins trigger reactive oxygen species (ROS) production.

• ROS damage lipids, DNA, and proteins in gut cells, activating NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways.

• This results in inflammatory cytokine release (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β), perpetuating tissue injury.

4. They disrupt the immune system modulation

• The gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) is highly sensitive.

• Some mycotoxins suppress immune defenses (e.g., aflatoxins inhibit macrophage activity).

• Others cause excessive immune activation, leading to chronic inflammation.

5. They produce nutrient malabsorption

• Damaged villi and transporters reduce absorption of amino acids, glucose, and lipids.

• Chronic exposure can cause malnutrition and growth retardation (especially in livestock and children).

Depending on toxin type, dose, and duration these are very common symptoms:

• Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting

• Growth suppression

• Impaired gut immunity and higher infection risk

• Systemic effects via leaky gut (e.g. liver and kidney toxicity)

• Diagnosis of Morbus Crohn or ulcerative colitis

• Ulcers

• SIBO, IBS

• Constipation

• Weight loss

• Changes in appetite

• Blood in stool

• Celiac diagnosis

• Increased food sensitivities

These were also my first symptoms. I had problems with mycotoxins my entire life, without knowing it. That is why now, I run first of all a mycotoxins panel and a GI pannel in a functional laboratory, in order to figure out how deep the problem is for my clients.