**Austin AC: Is Summer Mold Crashing Baby DHA?**

By Franklin Everett Shaw

February 22, 2026

The air in Austin in August isn’t just hot; it’s thick. That humidity, combined with the constant hum of air conditioners battling the Texas heat, creates a perfect breeding ground for something you really don’t want in your home: mold. And if you’re an Austin parent relying on DHA supplements to boost your baby’s brain development, you might be facing a hidden challenge you haven’t even considered.

The connection between mold, AC use, and baby DHA supplements might seem far-fetched, but it’s a real concern that deserves attention, especially for families in older Austin homes.

Here’s the problem: Austin’s climate, exacerbated by AC systems that cycle on and off, creates pockets of high humidity inside homes. This humidity fuels mold growth, often hidden behind walls, under sinks, or in air ducts.

Mold exposure, even at low levels, can impact gut health. A compromised gut can struggle to absorb essential nutrients, including DHA.

Think of it like this: your baby’s gut is a tiny, delicate garden. Mold exposure is like weeds choking out the flowers (the beneficial bacteria) that help absorb nutrients like DHA.

So, are those expensive DHA supplements actually doing their job, or are they being rendered less effective by a moldy environment? It’s a question worth investigating.

Let’s break down the key issues and offer actionable solutions for Austin parents.

First, testing your home for mold is crucial. Don’t rely on visual inspections alone. Mold can be hidden.

• DIY Mold Test Kits: Available at most hardware stores (like Home Depot on Research Blvd or Lowe’s on Ben White Blvd), these kits allow you to collect samples and send them to a lab for analysis. They’re a good starting point.
• Professional Mold Inspection: For a more thorough assessment, consider hiring a certified mold inspector. Companies like Mold Inspection Sciences Texas (with a local Austin office) can conduct air and surface sampling to identify mold species and their concentrations. This is especially important if you suspect hidden mold or have a history of water damage.

Knowing what kind of mold you’re dealing with is just as important as knowing if you have mold.

• Stachybotrys (Black Mold): This is the notorious one, known for producing mycotoxins that can cause serious health problems.
• Aspergillus: A common mold found indoors and outdoors. Some species are allergenic, while others can cause infections, especially in individuals with weakened immune systems.
• Cladosporium: Another common mold, often found on plants and in soil. It can trigger allergic reactions and asthma symptoms.

If your mold test comes back positive, don’t panic. Remediation is possible.

• Small Areas (less than 10 square feet): You may be able to handle minor mold problems yourself using a bleach solution (1 part bleach to 10 parts water). Always wear protective gear, including gloves, a mask, and eye protection.
• Large Areas or Black Mold: For significant mold infestations, especially black mold, it’s best to hire a professional mold remediation company. They have the equipment and expertise to safely remove the mold and prevent its recurrence. Look for companies certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC).

Now, let’s address the DHA supplement issue. Even if you’re actively remediating mold, you need to ensure your baby is getting enough DHA.

Here’s where things get interesting. Not all DHA supplements are created equal.

• Liquid DHA Supplements: These are often the easiest to administer to infants, but they can be more susceptible to degradation, especially if exposed to heat or light. Consider storing them in the refrigerator and checking the expiration date regularly.
• DHA Capsules: While harder to administer directly, you can pierce the capsule and squeeze the oil into your baby’s food. Capsules offer better protection against oxidation and degradation.
• DHA-Fortified Foods: Some baby formulas and cereals are fortified with DHA. Check the labels to see if your baby is already getting DHA from these sources.

Beyond supplements, focus on dietary sources of DHA for both you (if breastfeeding) and your baby (if they’re eating solids).

• Fatty Fish: Salmon, tuna, and mackerel are excellent sources of DHA. However, be mindful of mercury levels, especially for pregnant and breastfeeding women. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting consumption of high-mercury fish.
• Algae-Based DHA: This is a vegetarian and vegan-friendly option. Algae is the original source of DHA in fish, so you’re cutting out the middleman.
• Fortified Eggs: Some eggs are fortified with DHA. Check the carton label.

But what if your baby still isn’t getting enough DHA, even with supplements and dietary changes? This is where a pediatrician’s guidance is essential.

• Blood Tests: Your pediatrician can order a blood test to check your baby’s DHA levels. This will provide a more accurate assessment of their nutritional status.
• Dosage Adjustments: Based on the blood test results, your pediatrician can recommend adjusting the DHA supplement dosage.
• Alternative Supplement Forms: If your baby is having trouble absorbing DHA from standard supplements, your pediatrician may recommend a different form, such as a phospholipid-bound DHA supplement, which may be more easily absorbed.

Let’s talk about practical mold prevention in your Austin home. This is an ongoing battle, especially during the humid summer months.

• Control Humidity: Aim for a humidity level between 30% and 50%. Use a dehumidifier, especially in bathrooms and laundry rooms.
• Proper Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation in your home, especially in areas prone to moisture. Use exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens.
• Regular AC Maintenance: Clean or replace your AC filters regularly. Dirty filters can trap moisture and promote mold growth. Consider having your AC ducts professionally cleaned every few years.
• Address Leaks Promptly: Repair any leaks in your roof, plumbing, or windows immediately. Water damage is a major cause of mold growth.
• Clean Regularly: Regularly clean surfaces in your home, especially in bathrooms and kitchens, to remove mold spores.

Finally, remember that you’re not alone. Austin has resources to help you combat mold and ensure your baby’s health.

• Austin Public Health: The city’s health department offers information and resources on mold prevention and remediation.
• Texas Department of State Health Services: This state agency provides guidance on mold assessment and remediation.
• Local Pediatricians: Your pediatrician is your best resource for addressing any concerns about your baby’s health and development, including DHA levels.

Don’t let the Austin heat and humidity, and the potential for mold growth, compromise your baby’s health. By taking proactive steps to test for mold, prevent its growth, and ensure adequate DHA intake, you can create a healthier environment for your little one to thrive. It’s about being informed, proactive, and advocating for your child’s well-being in the unique environment that is Austin, Texas.