What does a healthy, mold free diet look like and why is it important when healing from CIRS – Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome? Here we will shed some light on the health benefits of eating foods that are mold free & low in amylose.
A crucial element of Dr. Shoemaker’s treatment protocol for those healing from CIRS & MaRCons is the Low Amylose diet. Eliminating foods with significant amounts of this starch has been shown to reduce high levels of a disease marker called Martix Metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9). High levels of MMP-9 are common among patients with mold illness, Lyme disease, heart disease, COPD, tumors, and arthritis just to mention a few. As one recovers from Mold Illness, adhering to a low amylose diet is one of the most important and simple actions we can take.
The good news? You can start healing from mold exposure right now by consuming supportive foods. Equally important is following a professional’s guidance through a treatment protocol and of course removing yourself from the toxin source. Right now is the perfect time to stop consuming inflammatory foods and replace them with low amylose alternatives. What you eat and importantly – what you don’t eat can profoundly affect how you feel. Use the Low amylose food list here to guide you.
The great news?? Not only will a low amylose meal plan help reduce harmful levels of MMP-9, but you are likely to see regulated insulin levels, healthier blood pressure, improved dental health, and if you have a few extra pounds to shed- it will very likely melt away. A low amylose meal plan is similar to popular low carbohydrate diets like Keto, Paleo, Atkins, and AIP. But the key element with mold illness recovery is reducing amylose content- so take a look through our recipe section and keep checking back for more as the meals have been specially crafted to be low in amylose, high in nutrients, and hopefully delicious!
A few more considerations special to CIRS recovery are reducing the intake of mycotoxins and avoiding foods that your body reacts to.
Non toxic eating
Eating clean foods that do not contain harmful mold and fungus reduces your exposure to toxins. These are often referred to as mycotoxins. Though stomach acids may manage mold toxins taken by eating & drinking, harmful mold spores that enter the body from breathing in can be extremely difficult to eliminate for some people. Once the toxins accumulate in the body, symptoms will arise and inflammation will increase rapidly. If you suspect mold illness~ meet with a specialist, eliminate the source of the mold, and support your health by eating a mold free diet. Avoid foods that have been stored for a long period like dried spices, grains, bulk food items, etc. For a detailed list of foods to avoid, read this post. The longer food items sit in transport or on the shelf- the more likely it is for toxic mold to grow. Freshly picked is best.
Foods we physically & psychologically react to: Food allergies, sensitivities and intolerances
It is essential to know which foods your body is not tolerating right now and stop consuming them. Know the foods you are allergic to, and take great care to avoid at all costs. Some allergies can be life threatening. Food intolerances like celiac (gluten intolerance), or lactose intolerance. Simple blood tests can confirm some food intolerances. Food sensitivities are typically not life threatening but DO cause inflammation and long term digestive problems. Every time you eat even the smallest amount of a food that does not agree with your system, your immune system responds and inflammation escalates. Properly undertake an Elimination Diet aka Gut Healing Protocol as your very first step toward a mold free diet.
To summarize, a mold free, low amylose diet is extremely beneficial as it reduces inflammation rooted in several sources. Removing foods contaminated with toxins and foods that irritate your immune system will help you feel better. Supporting your body with whole foods that reduce inflammation will strengthen your immune system and you’ll feel better. Take a look at the foods you have in storage now- perhaps it’s time to substitute fresh herbs for the ancient dried jar of spices? Do you really know which foods adversely affect you? How many anti inflammatory foods are part of your meals every day?
The best diet is the one that makes YOU feel well. There is no one-size fits all, as each of us has a unique set of food sensitivities, likes & dislikes. The goal is to use the information in this mold free menu blog to make informed decisions about what you consume- and ultimately to feel your best.
A low amylose diet is beneficial for CIRS recovery according to Dr. Shoemaker. Elevated MMP9 levels can often be reduced by following a strict low or no amylose diet. Ask your health professional to monitor your bloodwork details.
The information we provide at Moldfreemenu.com is intended to provide information to better understand how a healthy diet is part of healing from biotoxin illness and not intended to replace consultation with a qualified medical professional.Specific medical advice including diagnosis and treatment will not be provided. This diet does not cure mold illness but does help reduce inflammation- thus reduce symptoms triggered by inflammation.