Nutritionist and expert on active longevity Elena Zhelyanina explained in an interview with Channel Five (18+) why you should not eat moldy foods, even if you cut off the affected areas.
She explained that mold, often found on baked goods, is a fungus with a branched structure called mycelium, which quickly penetrates into the thickness of the product. These fungi produce mycotoxins – dangerous substances that have a carcinogenic effect. They weaken the human immune system and negatively affect the nervous system and the functioning of internal organs.
“Mycotoxins, and the “best” of them is aflatoxin, contribute to the risk of developing various diseases, including oncology,” the expert warned.
Heat treatments such as heating or frying will not kill these fungi. According to the specialist, even if only one vegetable in the package, for example, a cucumber or tomato, is moldy, the rest of the fruits are also contaminated. The structure of vegetables facilitates the penetration of mycelium into all parts of the fruit. Mold penetrates root crops through minor damage and the vascular system. Zhelyanina reminded that a film on jam, juice or compote is also a manifestation of mold.
“The problem is that the mycelium grows in its entirety, although you don’t see it,” Zhelyanina emphasized.
Eating foods with mold increases the risk of damage to liver cells, disruption of its detoxification function, irritation of the gastrointestinal tract and increased inflammatory processes in the body, the nutritionist summarized.
