Ep 32. Pt 1: Mold and Functional Medicine with Christina Cadden

In episode 32 of “Everyday Epigenetics. Raw. Real. Relatable.”, guest Christina Cadden offers an in-depth exploration of the challenges of mold and revelations shaping her health journey. From battling the persistent symptoms of COVID and navigating mold exposure to a career shift toward functional medicine, her story serves as a potent reminder of the intricate connections between our environment, health, and lifestyle.


Life Disrupted by Environmental Challenges
Christina Cadden's recent tribulations, including water supply issues and the aftermath of a hurricane in Asheville, NC, cast a spotlight on the vulnerabilities of human and environmental health. The flooding caused by the storm led to severe infrastructure damage and a reliance on boxed water and makeshift cleaning solutions.

Despite these hardships, Christina’s gratitude for her family’s safety and the support of her community underscores the resilience that often accompanies adversity.


From Conventional to Functional Medicine
Initially trained as an ear, nose, and throat nurse practitioner, Cadden's battle with personal health challenges catalyzed a significant career transformation. The loss of her mother to COVID and her own protracted illness, marked by fatigue, weight gain, and other persistent symptoms, were met with skepticism from several doctors.

Her eventual consultation with a functional medicine doctor who identified thyroid issues marked the turning point. This led her to focus on mold and Lyme disease, retraining her medical expertise to serve others facing similar health obstructions.

Unveiling the Ubiquity of Mold Exposure
As Christina and I discussed, mold has emerged as a covert antagonist in many health narratives. Hurricanes, water damage, and even everyday food items like grains and nuts, contribute to a pervasive mold presence. Highlighting the increasing frequency of mold-related health issues, Christina explained the broad range of symptoms, from respiratory problems to chronic fatigue and neurological symptoms.


The Imperative of Ferritin Checks
A significant insight from Christina's experience is the correlation between mold exposure and iron levels. Cadden’s severe ferritin drop, discovered before any direct mold testing, illustrated the toxin’s impact on the body’s iron reserves. She stressed the importance of comprehensive iron panel tests that include ferritin levels, often overlooked in traditional medical assessments.

This revelation positions ferritin as a health "savings account," crucial for understanding the body’s true iron status and addressing fatigue and other systemic issues.


Practical Approaches to Detoxification and Toxin Management
Faced with the modern era’s toxin overload, effective detox systems are paramount. Christina’s advice includes vigilance about diet, choosing organic where possible, and thorough cleaning of non-organic produce with vinegar or baking soda. Recognizing budget constraints, she advocates for gradual dietary adjustments and finding a balance in lifestyle choices.

Christina’s reduction of coffee intake, once a notable source of ochratoxin A, reflects a practical and attainable approach to managing exposure without complete deprivation.

Holistic Health and Personalized Medicine
Christina founded "Watchful Wellness" to channel her passion for mold issues into professional support for patients. Her approach is deeply personal, driven by the loss of her parents to ensure a long, healthy life for herself.

Her experience treating patients with Lyme disease, along with her methodical and holistic health philosophy, emphasizes the integration of various medical practices. This multidisciplinary synergy enhances her understanding and treatment of complex health issues beyond the surface symptoms.

Mycotoxins: The Silent Threat
A pertinent discussion on mycotoxins underscored their stealthy incursion into daily life. Substances like gliotoxin and ochratoxin A, found in environmental sources such as water-damaged buildings and food items, present significant health risks including nephrotoxicity and cognitive impairment.

Christina's transparency about the challenges of complete mold eradication and her methods of minimizing exposure, offer realistic strategies for individuals navigating similar health terrains.

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Learn About Christina Cadden:

A board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner and registered nurse with a background in critical care. Christina’s holistic approach to patient care stems from her comprehensive nursing education and career.
Originally from Texas, Christina recently relocated to the mountains. Her personal health journey began two years ago when she experienced hair loss and chronic fatigue. Frustrated by conventional medical advice, she delved into functional medicine, discovering unique approaches to health. Christina has battled conditions like Hashimoto’s, EBV, IBS, SIBO, Leaky Gut, and Mold, fueling her passion to help others facing similar issues.
She founded Watchful Wellness, PLLC, launching this November. Outside of work, Christina enjoys traveling, hiking, and spending time with her husband, two daughters, and their chocolate lab.