Tag Archive for: DUTCH test

Understanding Mold Testing and Strategies for Optimal Health with Carrie Rutledge

By Carrie Rutledge, Nutrition Therapist Master, Patient Coordinator 

 

Navigating Living in Mold-Affected Environments

My daughter and I began to express some varied physical symptoms including skin rashes and lowered immunity after moving into our new home. Mold illness is rarely discussed in mainstream medicine and mold testing has a high rate of inaccuracy. It’s important to be vigilant as so many children and adults are struggling with diagnoses when the elephant in the room is overlooked. The truth is water penetration can happen anywhere and it’s extremely important to monitor and regularly test the home to avoid significant health risks. This article explores the importance of mold testing and provides practical strategies for managing living conditions in mold-affected environments to maintain optimal health.

 

Health Implications of Mold Exposure

Exposure to mold can lead to a variety of health issues, ranging from mild allergic reactions to severe respiratory and neurological problems, and even death. Understanding these health implications is essential for taking appropriate action to mitigate risks. 

 

Common Health Effects

Some practitioners would argue that over 50% of children with ASD, PANS/PANDAS, OCD, ADHD and anxiety are on the Mast Cell Activation Spectrum (MCAS) and it will be extremely difficult to get their immune system to calm down without controlling their environment. When there is exposure to significant amounts of mold and all the detoxification pathways are struggling to keep up, it will be nearly impossible to detoxify until the exposure piece has been handled. 

Mold spores can trigger allergic reactions, respiratory issues, chronic ear infections, strep throat, skin rashes, eczema, lowered immunity, neurological symptoms, fatigue, and migraines. Neurological symptoms commonly seen in children with severe mold exposure are severe OCD, PANS/PANDAS, ASD, tics, brain fog, hormonal imbalance, head banging, anxiety and extreme anger. It’s important to understand that not all individuals will present symptomatology as genetics will play a role in the constitution of the person affected. This is why a mother and child may show symptoms, but the father and other siblings may not. 

When these symptoms arise, many parents take their child to the pediatrician only to be diagnosed with Strep or PANS/PANDAS even though the child may not have an active Strep infection. The doctor will put the child on antibiotics and the symptoms will improve only for the child to crash and burn when they come off the antibiotics. 

You may be able to see some indications of toxic mold exposure with routine blood tests. The markers you can look for are elevated liver enzymes and eosinophils. It is also not uncommon for mold exposure to lower the white blood cell count to the lower end of normal (around or below 4,500 IU). Nutrient deficiencies may also be present such as anemia and low zinc levels. 

 

Mold Testing: The First Step to Awareness

Mold testing is the crucial first step in identifying and understanding the extent of mold contamination in your living environment. There are several methods of mold testing, each with its own merits and applications. 

Unfortunately, most mold inspectors have very little training and do not understand the true impact of mold exposure. Usually, the mold inspector will follow OSHA guidelines and take a sample of air from each room. The home will then be given a clean bill of health if the amount of mold in the home is less than that of the exterior. However, a study from Berkeley showed that mold spores can only travel about four inches from an area of contamination and the mycotoxin gas that is released into the air is difficult to test for. California is a perfect example of a very dry state that also has homes that are prone to high levels of dry or non-active mold; however, it’s the mycotoxins and the gas they produce, that leads to severe health issues for many people. 

We often hear that someone has just moved into a brand-new home so there is no possible way for it to have mold. This is not always the case as mold can rapidly grow in air conditioners from improper installation or drainage. Mold growth has been found in brand new homes with wine cellars that are not allowing for humidity to be released resulting in rapid mold growth. Furthermore, homes built on elevated foundations where water consistently passes underneath the subfloor are prone to mold if they are not properly ventilated. Mold can also be found in churches, schools, workspaces and many buildings that we frequent daily, making us or our children chronically sick. 

If you suspect that your home may have mold, you may want to choose a screening tool that is extremely sensitive and will let you know if further investigation is necessary.  An ERMI (Environmental Relative Moldiness Index) is a great option for screening that looks at dust collected in the home. The Dust Test is my favorite because it offers follow-up discussions on the results you receive. You perform the test yourself by wiping up dust in your home and then you send it off to a lab to be tested. After a few weeks your results will be uploaded to an online portal. Sampling your dust for mold can give you an indication if your home is safe or if remediation may be needed. Once you have your results you can decide if you need a full inspection to pinpoint where the mold is located, and if remediation is possible. 

Likewise, the ISEAI (International Society for Environmentally Acquired Illnesses) is a great resource to use if mold is found in the home. This website (ISEAI – International Society for Environmentally Acquired Illness) gives lists of IEPs or Indoor Environmental Professionals, who can assess and guide families along the way. If you reside in the Atlanta area, we suggest Robby Brown at Breathewell Air (www.breathwellair.com) to evaluate the air quality in the home.  

 

How to Navigate Living in a Moldy Situation Until Remediation is Possible

Living in a mold-affected environment requires a proactive approach to minimizing health risks and improving indoor air quality. I have listed some practical strategies to navigate these challenges.

Remediation is the best option for healing the environment and the individuals who are living there. The problem is not everyone can remediate and/or move, and remediation is dependent on finances and effective identification of all contaminated areas. This is also a very difficult situation for people who are renting. The landlord will bring in their conventional mold testers, they won’t find anything significant, and everyone moves on. Furthermore, a family might remediate one area of the home to find out there is also mold in the HVAC system or the air conditioner and the contamination is bigger than they thought. 

For families living in a moldy situation and remediation is not possible, there are steps you can take to improve the air quality  so that the health of the family can improve. 

 

Ventilation

Make sure the home is properly ventilated and keep the windows open as much as possible if you live in a temperate climate. 

 

HEPA Filtration 

Quality air filtration systems can be somewhat effective especially if they contain a layer of activated charcoal or carbon filter that is able to filter the VOCs or Volatile Organic Compounds. A simple HEPA filter will not capture these compounds and will release them back into the atmosphere. There are expensive high-grade filters such as IQ Air or an Allerair Airmedic, but the air purifier may be placed too far away from the contaminated area, or it may not be scrubbing air uniformly. Furthermore, single room air filters usually will not capture the volume of air that needs to be scrubbed. This is why just throwing an air purifier in a room may not be enough to combat living in a moldy home. However, when a quality air purifier is paired with ionization, it can work quite well. 

 

Ionization

Many studies are showing that ionization is now the most effective way to clean the air. Ionization is when electrically charged molecules are released into the air and attach to airborne particles causing them to clump together. The particles will then either fall to the ground or become captured from your filtration system. Air oasis (smaller living areas), IAP/GPS (larger rooms), combined with HEPA filtration and weekly deep cleaning are excellent options for controlling air quality in a home that cannot be remediated. 

Mold testing is an essential step in identifying and managing mold contamination in your living environment. By understanding the health risks associated with mold exposure and implementing effective strategies to navigate mold-affected areas, you can maintain optimal health and improve your quality of life. Regular maintenance, proactive measures, and seeking professional advice when needed are key to living healthily in the presence of mold.

If you are living in a moldy environment, Longevity is here to help with holistic detoxification and support. Call and speak with one of our knowledgeable staff members to learn more. 

 

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The Importance of Hormone Balance and the DUTCH Test for Fertility

By Maria Jones-Sasso, Bioenergetic Practitioner

Hormone health is a critical factor in fertility, yet it’s often overlooked or misunderstood. Whether you’re trying to conceive naturally or considering assisted reproductive technologies, achieving hormone balance is key to supporting your reproductive health. One of the most powerful tools to assess and understand hormone imbalances is the DUTCH test (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones), which offers a comprehensive look at how your hormones function, helping you tailor a personalized approach to boost fertility.

The Role of Hormones in Fertility

Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate virtually every function in your body, including reproduction. In the context of fertility, key hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and cortisol need to be in balance for conception to occur and for pregnancy to be maintained.

  • Estrogen: Essential for regulating the menstrual cycle and supporting the development of a healthy uterine lining.
  • Progesterone: Crucial for maintaining pregnancy, as it supports the uterine lining for implantation.
  • Testosterone: Though often associated with male fertility, testosterone is important for female libido, egg quality, and ovarian function.
  • Cortisol: The stress hormone, which can wreak havoc on fertility when imbalanced, as it interferes with the body’s ability to produce reproductive hormones optimally.

When these hormones are out of balance, issues such as irregular cycles, poor egg quality, low libido, and conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can emerge, making it more difficult to conceive. Therefore, understanding your hormone health is one of the first steps toward optimizing fertility.

How the DUTCH Test Works

The DUTCH test offers a cutting-edge approach to hormone testing by measuring hormone levels through dried urine samples collected at specific times of the day. Unlike traditional blood tests, which only offer a snapshot of hormone levels, the DUTCH test provides a more detailed picture by analyzing hormone metabolites—how hormones are broken down and utilized by the body.

Key Benefits of the DUTCH Test for Fertility:

  1. Comprehensive Hormone Overview: The DUTCH test doesn’t just measure estrogen and progesterone. It evaluates cortisol patterns, melatonin, DHEA, and androgens like testosterone, which all play a role in fertility. This broad assessment helps pinpoint hormonal imbalances that may not show up in standard tests.
  2. Stress and Fertility Connection: The test evaluates cortisol rhythms and how your body responds to stress. Chronic stress can throw off ovulation, disrupt menstrual cycles, and impair sperm quality. Understanding your cortisol pattern can help you address stress through lifestyle, diet, and supplements to improve reproductive outcomes.
  3. Insight Into Hormone Metabolism: Knowing how your body metabolizes hormones is critical. For example, the DUTCH test can reveal if you’re overproducing or underutilizing estrogen, which can contribute to conditions like endometriosis or fibroids—both of which can interfere with conception.
  4. Hormone Detox Pathways: The DUTCH test also provides insight into how well your liver detoxifies excess hormones, especially estrogen. Impaired detoxification can lead to estrogen dominance, a common factor in fertility challenges.

Optimizing Fertility Through Hormone Balance

Once you receive the detailed results of your DUTCH test, you and your healthcare provider can create a personalized fertility plan. This might include:

  • Targeted Supplements: Supplements such as Vitex, DIM, or adaptogenic herbs can help restore hormone balance and improve reproductive health.
  • Diet and Lifestyle Modifications: Reducing sugar, caffeine, and processed foods while incorporating hormone-friendly foods rich in omega-3s, fiber, and antioxidants can help balance hormones.
  • Stress Management: Mindfulness practices, regular exercise, and therapies like acupuncture or reflexology can reduce cortisol levels, leading to better hormone balance.
  • Bioidentical Hormones: In some cases, bioidentical hormones may be recommended to correct deficiencies in progesterone or estrogen and improve fertility outcomes.

Conclusion

The journey to fertility can be complex, but understanding the role of hormones through a comprehensive test like the DUTCH can provide essential insights. By identifying imbalances in estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, and other key hormones, you can take control of your reproductive health and enhance your chances of conceiving. Whether you’re just beginning to explore your fertility options or have been on the journey for a while, ensuring proper hormone balance is a critical step toward achieving your dream of parenthood.

Incorporating the DUTCH test into your fertility plan can provide you with the in-depth information needed to tailor interventions and ultimately support a successful, healthy pregnancy.

If you’re ready to explore your hormone health, contact a healthcare professional trained in hormone balancing, like myself, to see how the DUTCH test can empower your fertility journey.

 

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The Importance of Hormone Balancing during Menopause 

Understanding Progesterone, Estrogen, Testosterone, DHEA, Cortisol, and the Role of the DUTCH Test

By Maria Jones-Sasso, Bioenergetic Practitioner

 

Menopause is a natural phase of life that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, though it can vary widely. This transition, while universal, is uniquely experienced by each woman. Navigating hormones and menopause can be challenging, but understanding the changes and adopting strategies for managing them can help ease the journey.

 

Understanding Menopause

Menopause is defined as the point in time when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. It is preceded by perimenopause, a transitional period where hormonal fluctuations can cause various symptoms. This phase can start several years before menopause, often in a woman’s 40s.

This period is characterized by a decrease in the production of key hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, along with alterations in cortisol and DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) levels. Managing these hormonal shifts effectively can make a substantial difference in how a woman experiences menopause. As their levels decrease, women may experience a range of symptoms.

 

Understanding Hormonal Changes in Menopause

Estrogen: Estrogen, which plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle and maintaining bone density, drops significantly during menopause. This decline is associated with common symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. Low estrogen levels can also contribute to osteoporosis and cardiovascular issues.

 Progesterone: Progesterone levels also decrease during menopause. This hormone helps regulate the menstrual cycle and supports the uterus. Lower levels of progesterone can lead to irregular periods and can exacerbate symptoms like mood swings and sleep disturbances.

Testosterone: Although testosterone is often associated with men, it is also important for women. During menopause, testosterone levels decline, which can affect libido, mood, and energy levels. While testosterone levels are not as pronounced as estrogen or progesterone, they still play a role in overall well-being.

DHEA: DHEA is a precursor hormone produced by the adrenal glands that can be converted into estrogen and testosterone. Its levels also decline with age, and this reduction can impact energy, mood, and overall vitality.

Cortisol: Known as the “stress hormone,” cortisol levels can become imbalanced during menopause. Chronic stress or adrenal fatigue can lead to elevated cortisol levels, which may exacerbate menopausal symptoms like weight gain, fatigue, and mood swings.

 

Common Symptoms of Menopause

  • Hot Flashes: Sudden feelings of intense heat, often accompanied by sweating and a flushed appearance.
  • Night Sweats: Hot flashes that occur during sleep, which can lead to disrupted sleep and fatigue.
  • Irregular Periods: Menstrual cycles may become erratic before they stop altogether.
  • Vaginal Dryness: Decreased estrogen can lead to dryness, which may cause discomfort during intercourse.
  •  Mood Changes: Hormonal fluctuations can contribute to mood swings, irritability, and even depression.
  • Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling or staying asleep can be common.
  • Memory and Concentration Issues: Some women report challenges with cognitive functions during this period.

Strategies for Managing Menopause Symptoms

Lifestyle Adjustments:

  • Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help manage symptoms. Foods high in calcium and vitamin D are particularly beneficial for bone health.
  • Exercise: Regular physical activity can help reduce hot flashes, improve mood, and support overall health. Activities like walking, swimming, and yoga can be particularly effective.
  •  Stress Management: Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and mindfulness can help manage stress and improve emotional well-being.

 

Medical Treatments:

  • Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): HRT can alleviate many menopause symptoms by replenishing estrogen levels. However, it’s important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider.
  • Non-Hormonal Medications: For those who cannot or prefer not to use HRT, other medications, including certain antidepressants and blood pressure medications, may help manage symptoms.
  • Vaginal Estrogen: Local treatments such as vaginal estrogen can relieve dryness and discomfort without affecting the entire body.

 

Alternative Therapies:

  • Herbal Supplements: Some women find relief with herbal supplements like black cohosh, evening primrose oil, or soy isoflavones. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplements, as they can interact with other medications.
  •  Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine technique has been shown to help with symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings in some women.

Navigating menopause can be challenging, but understanding how your hormones are fluctuating can be incredibly helpful. Remember, it’s not a one-size-fits-all experience. It is crucial to work closely with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized plan for managing symptoms. The DUTCH test, which stands for Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones, is one tool that some people use to get a detailed look at their hormone levels and how they are metabolizing those hormones. Here’s a basic overview of how the DUTCH test works and how it might help with hormone balancing during menopause:

 

What is the DUTCH Test?

Comprehensive Hormone Assessment: The DUTCH test measures levels of various hormones including estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and cortisol. It also provides insights into hormone metabolites, which can help you understand how your body is processing these hormones.

Dried Urine Samples: Instead of blood samples, the DUTCH test uses dried urine samples. You collect these samples at different times of the day to get a comprehensive view of your hormonal patterns.

Metabolites and Patterns: The test not only measures current hormone levels but also assesses how these hormones are metabolized. This can help identify imbalances or patterns that might be contributing to symptoms.

Insight into Stress and Adrenal Function: Given the role of cortisol in stress management, the DUTCH test also assesses adrenal function and cortisol patterns. This can be crucial for addressing symptoms related to chronic stress and adrenal fatigue.

 

How to Use the DUTCH Test During Menopause:

Identify Imbalances: The DUTCH test can help pinpoint imbalances in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. For example, during menopause, estrogen levels typically decrease, but the DUTCH test can provide more detailed information on how this drop is affecting your body.

Assess Metabolism: Understanding how your body metabolizes hormones can be crucial. For instance, certain estrogen metabolites can be more problematic than others. The DUTCH test can help identify if you need to focus on detoxifying specific types of estrogen.

Customized Treatment: Based on the results, your healthcare provider might recommend personalized hormone replacement therapy (HRT), dietary changes, or lifestyle modifications. This can help target specific symptoms you’re experiencing, such as hot flashes, mood swings, or fatigue.

Monitor Progress: The DUTCH test can be used periodically to monitor how well your hormone balance is improving with any interventions you’re undertaking. It’s a way to see if your treatment plan is effective or if adjustments are needed.

 

Next Steps to Take:

Consult a Healthcare Provider: Before deciding on the DUTCH test, discuss it with a healthcare provider who is familiar with menopause and hormone testing. They can help you understand if this test is right for you and interpret the results in the context of your overall health.

Prepare for the Test: Follow any preparation instructions provided with the DUTCH test kit. This may involve specific timing for urine collection and avoiding certain foods or medications.

Review Results with Your Provider: Once you have the results, review them with your healthcare provider to develop a plan for managing your symptoms based on the findings.

Adjust as Needed: Be prepared to make adjustments to your treatment or lifestyle based on what the DUTCH test reveals. Hormone balancing is often an iterative process.

 

Menopause is a unique experience for everyone, and a personalized approach can make a significant difference in managing symptoms and improving quality of life. The DUTCH test is just one of many tools that can provide valuable insights in this journey.

By staying informed, seeking appropriate treatment, and embracing a holistic approach to health, women can navigate menopause with confidence and maintain a high quality of life during this transformative phase.

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