Eating black mold can be harmful to your health, depending on the type of mold and the amount consumed. While some types of mold have no effect on your health, others can cause allergic reactions and respiratory infections. Heres what can happen if you accidentally eat mold:
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Gastrointestinal upset: If you eat mold, the odds are high that nothing will happen or you may experience a slight gastrointestinal upset. You might experience nausea or vomiting after consuming mold, especially if you eat a lot of it.
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Mycotoxins: Some molds can produce harmful toxins called mycotoxins, including aflatoxins, which can be especially poisonous. If you ingest a large amount of mycotoxins, you might experience symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.
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Allergic reactions: People with mold allergies may be more likely to experience symptoms if they accidentally eat mold. Allergic reactions can be delayed or immediate, depending on the type of mold.
If you know you ate something moldy and you develop prolonged nausea and vomiting, you should see a doctor. However, most likely, youll be okay. Its important to be mindful of the fact that you ate mold and make sure you dont have any symptoms for the rest of the day. If you have a mold allergy, keep an eye out for any unexpected symptoms and seek medical attention if they develop.