Although there is a genetic predisposition toward MS, Doug Kaufmann and David Holland note that studies of twins indicate there is still an outside factor involved, since not all pairs of twins develop MS. Interestingly, MS is more common in persons born and raised in Northern climates (above the 37th parallel); however, if a person moves to an area of low risk prior to adolescence, they assume the lower risk of their new location. “These last points support the idea of an environmental exposure link to the disease,” says Dr. Holland in a recent online column.

Kaufmann and Holland note that mycotoxins are chemicals made by fungi and that they are found in peanuts, corn, rye, wheat, and other grains that have been contaminated with fungi and mold.

The duo says that in MS there is a loss of molecules called sphingolipids from the white matter in the central nervous system. They add that mycotoxins disrupt sphingolipid biosynthesis. They specifically cite as the culprit gliotoxin, which is a heat-stable molecule produced by aspergillus, candida and other fungal species. In the online article, Dr. Holland writes, “Not coincidentally, scientists have recovered a heat-stable toxin from the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of MS patients. In this particular study, they took the CSF from MS patients, heat-treated it to destroy any infectious germs, and then exposed it to nerve cells in a laboratory culture. What happened? The nerve cells died! They called this heat-stable toxin ‘gliotoxin.’”

Another mycotoxin, penetrim D, is produced by the fungal species Penicillium crustosum. It is another neurotoxin that is widely present in corn and corn-based products. Dr. Holland says that penetrim D can cause tremors, convulsions, limb weakness, and ataxis (unsteady gait), not unlike the symptoms observed in MS.

Both researchers opine that as there are different classes of MS (chronic-progressive, relapsing-remitting), the varying types of the disease are caused by different classes of mycotoxins.

In addition, the regional differences in the prevalence of MS might be explained by the particular agricultural products that dominate the most affected area. For example, the part of America that lies above the 37th parallel also happens to encompass the nation’s Corn Belt. Corn, of course, can be contaminated by mycotoxins. The Wheat Belt is also largely in the same region. “Is this just a coincidence, or good evidence of an environmental exposure risk factor?”

Here’s another interesting tidbit. The statin drugs (typically used for lowering cholesterol) have proven effective in slowing the progression of MS, which isn’t surprising considering, as Kaufmann and Holland observe, statins were first discovered because of their antifungal properties. How about vitamin D and sunlight, both of which apparently reduce mortality from MS? Kaufmann and Holland note that both are anti-mycotoxins.

If indeed mycotoxins cause MS, then there are a number of steps one must take to minimize exposure to fungi and their mycotoxins.

First, the researchers strongly recommend minimizing grains in your diet and reducing your exposure to antibiotics, many of which are actually mycotoxins. Consider avoiding sausage and other cured meats that can also be contaminated.

In addition, in consultation with your physician, you may want to begin an antifungal cleanse. Kaufmann has recommended the Antifungal Kit from BioActive Nutrients. Keep in mind, however, that the Antifungal Kit is a dietary supplement and should not be used as a drug to treat, diagnose or prevent the disease. Instead, it can help maintain your body’s natural defenses and detoxification pathways in an optimal state. You may still need drugs or treatments your doctor has prescribed.

The BioActive Nutrients Antifungal Kit not only provides all of the most well-documented antifungal herbs and nutrients (including undecylenic acid, neem, deodorized garlic, grapefruit seed extract, caprylic acid, olive leaf extract and apple cider vinegar)— but because the kit is so complete, it also includes a very high-potency probiotic formula (which is critical if you’ve taken lots of antibiotics in the past) and your choice of either flax or psyllium-based fiber or the newly introduced Green Sweep to avoid complications from “die-off” reactions, plus a powerful antioxidant multiple vitamin and mineral for basic support. In short, it is truly a complete and comprehensive value- and quality-driven approach to giving your body the kind of healthy support it needs. Be sure to work with your doctor.

The Fungus Link Volume 2

Kaufmann and Holland’s book The Fungus Link, Volume 2 is available from the BioActive website at www.bioactivenutrients.com or from your local health food store or book seller.

Resources

To learn more about the fungal link to illness or for more information on the Antifungal Kit, visit www.bioactivenutrients.com, e-mail the company at questions@bioactivenutrients.com, or call them at 800-879-6504. Guy Evans and his staff are known for their helpfulness and excellent customer service.

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