Why More Comprehensive Testing Should Be Freely Available: The Hidden Connection Between Mould, Parasites, Metal Toxicity, and Your Family’s Health

If your child is constantly tired, struggling with concentration, anxious, or experiencing unexplained tummy issues — you're not imagining it. More and more parents are discovering that chronic health symptoms may be linked to environmental and biological exposures that we rarely test for in standard medical settings: mould, parasites, and heavy metal toxicity.

We’re Not Just Talking About Dust and Dirt

When we think of mould, most of us picture something growing in the shower or creeping behind the fridge. But what if I told you that water damage in the home, or a previous rental with hidden leaks, could be silently impacting your child’s immune system, nervous system, and even their behaviour?

And what if parasites or heavy metals — things we assume only happen in developing countries or extreme cases — were actually far more common than anyone is talking about?

The Gut-Brain Connection Is Real (And It’s Being Ignored)

Modern science is only just catching up with what many parents have sensed for years: when something’s off in the gut, it can show up in the brain. We now know that the gut is often referred to as our “second brain” because of the way it communicates with our nervous system and regulates things like mood, energy, and even learning.

Mould exposure, parasitic infections, and heavy metals like mercury or lead can disrupt the gut microbiome and inflame the brain. In kids, this can look like:

• Sensory processing issues

• Meltdowns or mood swings

• Chronic tummy pain

• Eczema or allergies

• Anxiety or trouble sleeping

In adults, it might show up as:

• Brain fog

• Low energy or burnout

• Hormonal imbalances

• Depression

• Autoimmune flare-ups

Yet so many of these symptoms are misdiagnosed or dismissed entirely.

So Why Aren’t We Testing for This?

Here’s the heartbreaking truth: most GPs don’t screen for mould exposure. Most don’t order proper parasite testing unless you've just returned from overseas. And heavy metal testing? You’ll likely be told it’s unnecessary — unless you can point to an acute poisoning.

The kind of comprehensive, functional testing that actually shows the full picture is usually only available through private clinics — with a hefty price tag. This creates a two-tiered health system, where only families who can afford to "go private" get answers. Everyone else is left wondering.

It’s Time for a Change

Australia and New Zealand are seeing a growing number of families dealing with chronic, unexplained illnesses — from long-haul viruses and food intolerances to ADHD diagnoses and autoimmune conditions. But instead of asking why this is happening, we’re still treating symptoms in isolation.

We need to start treating the whole person — and that starts with testing. Not patchy, one-size-fits-all panels, but detailed, root-cause testing that looks at what’s actually going on in the gut, the brain, and the environment.

What Would Freely Available Testing Change?

• Early Intervention
  The earlier mould, parasites or heavy metal toxicity are identified, the faster you can start healing — before symptoms spiral into long-term issues.

• Equity in Healthcare
  No family should have to choose between rent and getting answers for their child’s health.

• Better Mental Health Outcomes
  Many mental health symptoms are downstream effects of gut and toxin-related issues. Treating the root cause would mean fewer children and teens on long-term medications.

• Empowered Families
  With the right testing, families are no longer guessing in the dark. They can make informed decisions about their home environment, food, and treatment options.

Mums Deserve Better

As mums, we are often the first to notice when something is wrong — and too often, we’re made to feel like we’re overreacting. But your gut instincts are usually right, especially when it comes to your child’s health.

We need a system that backs us up — one that recognises that mould illness, parasite load, and metal toxicity are not fringe issues, but growing public health concerns.

It’s time to push for policy change, raise awareness, and support more research and funding so that comprehensive environmental health testing becomes the norm — not a luxury.

Because every family deserves answers.

This content is for informational and awareness purposes only. It is not medical advice and does not replace the guidance of a qualified health professional. Please consult your GP or healthcare provider for personalised advice.