James Odell, OMD, ND, LAc
Pleomorphism
Pleomorphism is the ability of microorganisms to change their form and function in response to environmental conditions, is a key concept in understanding how fungi adapt and become pathogenic. With approximately 99,000 known species—including molds, yeasts, mushrooms, and polypore’s—fungi are ubiquitous, thriving in almost all habitats, including soil, air, seas, and rivers, as well as on organic matter, including food, and other organisms, such as plants, animals, and of course the human body. They are everywhere and have been for millennia.
In a healthy state, most fungi exist harmoniously with the body’s terrain. However, when the body's internal environment becomes toxic or compromised, fungi can shift into more harmful forms, exemplifying pleomorphism in action.
The immune system of a healthy individual has several effective mechanisms to identify, control, and eliminate potentially pathogenic fungal infections. However, exposure to chemicals, metals, acidic pH levels, and immunodeficiencies disrupt this balance, allowing fungi to morph into more dangerous forms. This biological shift, rooted in pleomorphism, makes it harder for the body to defend itself. Conditions such as diabetes, cancer, or prolonged stress can increase susceptibility to fungal infections, leading to more severe health outcomes.
Thus, toxic environmental and dietary influences that disturb the body’s terrain and lower immune response can cause normally harmless organisms to morph and become pathogenic. Recent trends reflect this phenomenon clearly, with fungal infections rising globally. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) described this surge as "alarming," especially considering the emergence of Candida auris, a fungus first identified in Japan in 2009. Unlike its predecessor Candida albicans, which caused invasive infections, Candida auris exhibits alarming antifungal resistance, presenting a significant threat to human health. In fact, between 2020 and 2021, clinical cases of Candida auris infections in the U.S. rose by 95%.
One key factor driving this pleomorphic shift is the overuse of antifungal agents—not only in medicine but also in agriculture. Azoles, the most common antifungal compounds, are widely used on crops to control rust and mildew. This practice mirrors the medical use of azoles to treat fungal infections, fostering resistance. When antifungal residues accumulate in food and the environment, commensal fungi within our bodies may evolve into pathogenic forms. Like antibiotic resistance, this fungal resistance exemplifies the unintended consequences of overexposure to antifungals.
Since the 1980s, the unregulated use of fungicides in agriculture has compounded this issue, with millions of tons applied to crops such as fruits, vegetables, and grains. This continuous exposure not only contaminates food but also disrupts natural fungal ecology, driving pleomorphic changes that enable fungi like Candida auris to thrive. Moreover, antifungal medications themselves can cause side effects, including liver and kidney toxicity, further complicating treatment and public health outcomes.
The principle of pleomorphism reminds us that microorganisms are not static but dynamic, constantly changing in response to their environment. Therefore, managing fungal infections requires more than just pharmaceuticals—it demands proactive measures to limit exposure to fungicides and strengthen the body’s natural defenses.
To mitigate these risks, choosing organic produce or thoroughly washing conventional fruits and vegetables is essential. A two-step method using vinegar and baking soda offers an effective way to remove pesticide and fungicide residues. First, soaking produce in a mixture of one cup of vinegar to three cups of water helps break down residues. Next, soaking it in a solution of one teaspoon of baking soda per two cups of water for 15–20 minutes helps remove lingering contaminants. Alternatively, a 10% saltwater solution can achieve similar results.
In conclusion, pleomorphism highlights how fungi, once benign, can adapt and become pathogenic under the right conditions. This adaptive potential, exacerbated by environmental toxins and agricultural practices, emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy terrain—both within our bodies and in the world around us. By reducing exposure to antifungal residues and supporting our immune systems, we can better manage the risks posed by these adaptable organisms.
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This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for the direct care of a qualified health practitioner who oversees and provides unique and individualized care. The information provided here is to broaden our different perspectives and should not be construed as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.