What should I do if I eat moldy food

After consuming moldy food by mistake, immediately stop eating and observe the body's reaction. Seek medical attention if necessary. Moldy food may contain harmful substances such as aflatoxins, which can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, liver damage, and immune suppression.

1. emetic treatment

Within two hours after ingestion, try inducing vomiting by drinking warm saline water to stimulate the throat and reduce toxin absorption. Infants, young children, and those with unclear consciousness are prohibited from inducing vomiting to avoid blockage of the airway by vomit. After inducing vomiting, rinse your mouth with water to remove residual fungal spores.

2. Activated carbon adsorption

Adults can take medicinal activated carbon tablets according to medical advice. Its porous structure can adsorb fungal toxins in the intestine. Use should be separated from meals by at least two hours to avoid affecting nutrient absorption. Pregnant women and patients with intestinal obstruction are prohibited from using this type of physical adsorption method. When diarrhea symptoms occur, oral rehydration salts should be supplemented to prevent dehydration, and electrolyte solutions should be prepared according to the instructions. Moderate consumption of low residue foods such as rice soup and apple puree is recommended to avoid exacerbating gastrointestinal burden. If diarrhea persists for more than 24 hours, medical treatment with intravenous infusion should be sought.

4. Drug intervention

Montmorillonite powder can protect the gastrointestinal mucosa and alleviate diarrhea, while bifidobacterial preparations can regulate the balance of intestinal microbiota. When fever or bloody stool occurs, seek medical attention and use antibiotics such as norfloxacin. For those with abnormal liver function, inject glutathione for detoxification treatment.

5. Medical Monitoring

After consuming moldy nuts or grains, special attention should be paid to jaundice symptoms and liver function indicators should be regularly tested. Long term and trace intake of moldy food may induce liver cancer, and high-risk individuals should undergo tumor marker screening. Neurological symptoms such as blurred vision require screening for fungal encephalitis.

Daily storage of grain requires controlling humidity below 65% and using sealed containers to isolate oxygen. Regularly check inventory food for mold spots, and discard moldy parts and areas within a three centimeter radius. Thoroughly clean the surface of ingredients before cooking, and ensure that fermented soy products are fully cooked. Elderly people, infants, and immunocompromised individuals should avoid consuming high-risk foods such as overnight cold dishes and homemade fermented foods. If discomfort occurs, seek medical attention immediately.