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Health Line
an hour ago
- Business
- Health Line
Does Medicare Cover a Kidney Transplant?
Key takeaways Medicare covers most services related to organ transplantation performed in approved hospitals, including heart, intestine, kidney, liver, and cornea transplants. Medicare Part A covers inpatient services during hospitalization. Part B covers doctor's services related to the transplant, and Part D helps cover prescription drugs needed for transplantation, including immunosuppressant drugs. Medicare generally covers almost all costs related to Medicare-approved organ transplants, including pre-transplant services, surgery, follow-up care, immunosuppressant drugs, and medical care for the organ donor. In this article, we'll discuss when Medicare covers organ transplants, what you need to know about Medicare coverage, and what out-of-pocket costs you can expect for organ transplantation. Which Medicare part covers a kidney transplant? Medicare Part A is hospital insurance. It covers any necessary services related to the following transplants: heart lung kidney pancreas intestine liver In addition, Medicare also covers other transplants that aren't organ transplants. This includes the following transplants: cornea stem cell bone marrow Under Part A, covered services include most inpatient services during hospitalization, such as laboratory testing, physical exams, room and board, and pre-and post-op care for you and your organ donor. On the other hand, Medicare Part B is medical insurance, which means it covers any doctor's services related to your transplant. Services covered under Part B include those related to your diagnosis and recovery, such as doctor's or specialist's visits, laboratory testing, or certain prescription drugs. Part B will also cover these services for your organ donor when necessary. Part C Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) covers all the services listed above in Part A and Part B. Some Part C plans also cover prescription drugs and possibly additional health perks, like fitness memberships and meal services. Medicare Advantage Special Needs Plans (SNPs) are plans that offer coordinated services for people with chronic or disabling conditions. These plans can be especially beneficial to people who have certain conditions that may require an organ transplant, such as end stage renal disease and chronic heart failure. Part D Medicare Part D helps cover prescription drugs needed for organ transplantation. While Part D coverage varies by plan, all Medicare prescription drug plans must cover immunosuppressant drugs. These medications, which weaken your immune system to make it less likely that your body will reject a new organ, are required for transplantation. Most prescription drug plans also cover other medications that may be necessary for organ transplant recovery, such as pain relievers, antidepressants, and others. When does Medicare cover organ transplants? Once a doctor has determined that a Medicare beneficiary requires a covered organ transplant, the program should cover the procedure. Medicare doesn't set any criteria for covered organ transplants, but exceptions to this are people undergoing intestine or pancreas transplants must have their transplants at a hospital with a Medicare-approved liver and kidney transplant program, respectively. In addition, organ transplant programs generally have eligibility requirements. What these requirements are depends on the type of transplant and may involve limitations on age or people living with certain health conditions. How much does an organ transplant cost with and without Medicare? According to a 2020 research report on transplant costs in the United States, the average costs for organ transplants include: Heart transplant: $1,664,800 Lung transplant: $1,295,900 (double lung) or $929,600 (single lung) Intestine transplant: $1,240,700 Liver transplant: $878,400 Kidney transplant: $442,500 Pancreas transplant: $408,800 Medicare pays for most services and costs associated with Medicare-approved organ transplants. Services include: pretransplant services, such as testing, lab work, and exams surgery follow-up services immunosuppressant and other necessary prescription drugs, in some cases Medicare also pays for all costs related to finding a donated organ and all medical care for the organ donor, such as doctor's visits, surgery, and other necessary medical services. While Medicare covers almost all organ transplantation costs, you'll still owe out-of-pocket costs. Out-of-pocket costs for organ transplant in 2025 Type of cost Medicare Part A Medicare Part B Medicare Part C Medicare Part D Monthly premium $0 to $518, depending on your work history $185, depending on your income depends on the plan you choose depends on the plan you choose Deductible $1,676 per benefit period $257 per year depends on the plan you choose $0 to $590, depending on the plan you choose Copay and coinsurance coinsurance of 0% to 100% per day, depending on how many days you stay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for covered services depends on the plan you choose coinsurance or copays depend on the plan you choose You may have other costs associated with your organ transplant surgery that Medicare doesn't cover. These out-of-pocket costs may include: transportation and lodging for the surgery child care or other expenses at home potential loss of income What if you can't afford a kidney transplant? Your Medicare coverage should significantly lower your out-of-pocket cost for your transplant. In addition, you may be able to lower your remaining out-of-pocket costs by enrolling in a Medicare supplement plan or Medigap. Medigap helps cover Original Medicare deductibles, copayments, and coinsurance. Some Medigap plans also cover Part B excess charges and foreign travel costs. That said, you cannot use Medigap with Part C. Your transplant provider may also offer a payment plan so that you can spread the cost over a longer period of time. In addition, if your income falls below a certain threshold, you may also qualify for Medicaid. In addition, the American Transplant Foundation lists several organizations that offer resources on fundraising for a transplant. Are liver transplant patients eligible for Medicare? If you are not eligible for Medicare but anticipate that you require an organ transplant, your eligibility for Medicare depends on either your age or the type of transplant that you need. Anyone ages 65 and over is automatically eligible for Medicare, and by law, no insurance plan can deny you based on a preexisting condition. That said, if you are younger than 65 and you need a transplant, you can only qualify for Medicare if you are living with end stage renal disease (ESRD) and are undergoing dialysis. Other types of needed organ transplants do not count for this exception. Takeaway An organ transplant can be an expensive surgery, but Medicare generally covers beneficiaries for almost all services under their plan. Part A covers most hospital-related services, while Part B covers most medical-related services. Part D can help cover prescription drug costs for immunosuppressants you may need to take before or after the transplant, while Medigap can help tackle some of the out-of-pocket costs associated with each Medicare plan. Contact your doctor or healthcare team for more information on what Medicare will cover for your organ transplant surgery and what to expect. The information on this website may assist you in making personal decisions about insurance, but it is not intended to provide advice regarding the purchase or use of any insurance or insurance products. Healthline Media does not transact the business of insurance in any manner and is not licensed as an insurance company or producer in any U.S. jurisdiction. Healthline Media does not recommend or endorse any third parties that may transact the business of insurance.


Health Line
4 hours ago
- Business
- Health Line
Does Medicare Cover Blood Tests for Cholesterol and How Often?
Key takeaways Medicare covers cholesterol testing as part of cardiovascular screening blood tests, including tests for lipid and triglyceride levels, which are covered once every 5 years. For those diagnosed with high cholesterol, Medicare Part B covers continuing blood work to monitor the condition and response to prescribed medication. Cholesterol-lowering medication is typically covered by Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage) and Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans. Medicare covers cholesterol testing as part of the cardiovascular screening blood tests. It also includes tests for lipid and triglyceride levels, which are covered once every 5 years. However, if you have a diagnosis of high cholesterol, Medicare Part B will usually cover continuing blood work to monitor your condition and response to prescribed medication. If you need cholesterol-lowering medication, it's usually covered by Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage) and Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) plans. Keep reading to learn more about what Medicare covers to help diagnose and prevent cardiovascular disease. What else does Medicare cover to help diagnose and prevent cardiovascular disease? Cholesterol testing isn't the only thing Medicare covers to help identify, prevent, and treat cardiovascular disease. Medicare Part B will also cover an annual visit with your primary care doctor for behavioral therapy, which may include suggestions for a heart-healthy diet. Additional preventive services covered by Medicare Medicare covers other prevention and early detection services — many at no charge — to help identify health issues early. Diagnosing health conditions early can maximize the success of treatment. These tests include: Preventive services Coverage abdominal aortic aneurysm screening 1 screening for people with risk factors alcohol misuse screening and counseling 1 screen and 4 brief counseling sessions per year bone mass measurement 1 every 2 years for people with risk factors colorectal cancer screenings how often is determined by the test and your risk factors depression screening 1 per year diabetes screening 1 for those at high risk; based on test results, up to 2 per year diabetes self-management training if you have diabetes and a written doctor's order flu shots 1 per flu season glaucoma tests 1 per year for people with risk factors hepatitis B shots series of shots for people at medium or high risk hepatitis B virus infection screening for high risk, 1 per year for continued high risk; for pregnant women, 1st prenatal visit and at time of delivery hepatitis C screening for those born 1945 to 1965; 1 per year for high risk HIV screening for certain age and risk groups, 1 per year; 3 during pregnancy lung cancer screening test 1 per year for qualified patients mammogram screening (breast cancer screening) 1 for women ages 35 to 49 years; 1 per year for women ages 40 years and older medical nutrition therapy services for qualified patients (diabetes, kidney disease, kidney transplant) Medicare diabetes prevention program for qualified patients obesity screening and counseling for qualified patients (BMI of 30 or more) Pap test and pelvic exam (also includes a breast exam) 1 every 2 years; 1 per year for those at high risk prostate cancer screenings 1 per year for men over age 50 years pneumococcal (pneumonia) vaccine covered; specific vaccine as recommended by your doctor tobacco use counseling and tobacco-caused disease 8 per year for tobacco users wellness visit 1 per year If you register at you can get direct access to your preventive health information. This includes a 2-year calendar of the Medicare-covered tests and screenings you're eligible for. What to expect from cholesterol testing The cholesterol test is used to estimate your risk of heart disease and blood vessel disease. The test will help your doctor evaluate your total cholesterol and your: Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol: Also known as 'bad' cholesterol, LDL in high quantities can cause the buildup of plaques (fatty deposits) in your arteries. These deposits can reduce blood flow and can sometimes rupture, leading to a heart attack or stroke. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol: Also known as 'good' cholesterol, HDL helps carry away LDL cholesterol and other 'bad' lipids to be flushed from the body. Triglycerides: Triglycerides are a type of fat in your blood that is stored in fat cells. At high enough levels, triglycerides may increase the risk of heart disease or diabetes. Lipoprotein(a): Your doctor may order this test to check your Lp(a), a type of LDL (bad) cholesterol. Medicare doesn't cover this test. Takeaway Medicare covers the costs of testing your cholesterol, lipid, and triglyceride levels every 5 years. These tests can help determine your risk level for cardiovascular disease, stroke, or heart attack. Medicare also covers other preventive services, including wellness visits, mammogram screenings, colorectal cancer screenings, flu shots, and more. The information on this website may assist you in making personal decisions about insurance, but it is not intended to provide advice regarding the purchase or use of any insurance or insurance products. Healthline Media does not transact the business of insurance in any manner and is not licensed as an insurance company or producer in any U.S. jurisdiction. Healthline Media does not recommend or endorse any third parties that may transact the business of insurance.


Newsweek
21 hours ago
- Business
- Newsweek
Medicare Penalties Would Change for 700,000 Seniors Under New Bill
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Members of Congress reintroduced the Medicare Economic Security Solutions Act in Washington, D.C., proposing sweeping reforms to Medicare Part B late enrollment penalties. The legislation would limit penalties to 15 percent of the monthly premium and restrict their duration while also removing penalties for individuals who delayed enrollment due to other coverage, such as COBRA, retiree plans, or Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits. Why It Matters More than 700,000 Medicare beneficiaries currently face permanent increases in their Part B premiums because of late enrollment, with average penalties reaching 30 percent. As more Americans work beyond age 65 and delay claiming Social Security, confusion about Medicare enrollment deadlines has become increasingly costly. The bill aims to simplify enrollment, encourage continued employment among seniors, and shield vulnerable populations from financial hardship due to administrative mistakes or legitimate coverage choices. The reforms could deliver significant relief to older Americans, many of whom live on fixed incomes and struggle to afford healthcare. U.S. Rep. Nikema Williams (D-GA) speaks during a rally at the Fight Colorectal Cancer "United in Blue" flag installation on the National Mall to spotlight the rise in young adult Colorectal cancer cases on... U.S. Rep. Nikema Williams (D-GA) speaks during a rally at the Fight Colorectal Cancer "United in Blue" flag installation on the National Mall to spotlight the rise in young adult Colorectal cancer cases on March 10, 2025, in Washington, D.C. Morefor Fight Colorectal Cancer What To Know The Medicare Economic Security Solutions Act would amend Title XVIII of the Social Security Act to cap the Medicare Part B late enrollment penalty at 15 percent of the monthly premium. The penalty would apply only for a period twice as long as the duration an individual went without coverage after becoming eligible, replacing the current system that applies a 10 percent penalty for each full 12-month period of delay—often for life. The new rules would apply to premiums paid for months beginning after a 90-day waiting period post-enactment. The Act would exclude from penalty calculations any months during which a person had employer-sponsored COBRA, retiree health coverage, or VA health coverage. Under the current law, only periods of active employment with employer coverage are exempt, leaving some retirees and veterans exposed to penalties even if continuously covered. The bill would also broaden special enrollment periods for Medicare Part B, applying not only to those leaving active employment but to those whose COBRA or retiree coverage terminates. This change would allow more Americans to enroll without penalty when transitioning from such plans, addressing gaps left by the current rules. Medicare's enrollment system has become more confusing as the population works longer and many delay Social Security benefits. Unlike those automatically enrolled in both Social Security and Medicare, individuals who work beyond 65 and have alternative insurance must actively enroll in Medicare Part B. Those who miss the window face harsh, lifetime penalties. "The Late Enrollment penalties in Medicare are confusing and can be hefty. Parts A, B, and D each have their own penalty calculations and timeframes, with Part B being the costliest," Drew Powers, the founder of Illinois-based Powers Financial Group, told Newsweek. "The current law is a 10 percent penalty for each 12-month period of non-enrollment, and that penalty continues to be assessed each you carry Part B—quite possibly the rest of your life." A previous version of the bill introduced in 2024 garnered bipartisan support, with 12 Democrats signing onto it and two Republicans. Representative Kim Young, a Republican from California, supported the bill in 2024 and is also a co-sponsor of the current legislation along with Representative Nikema Williams, a Democrat from Georgia. This bill arrives alongside broader Congressional debates over Medicare reform, including proposals in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act that would reshape eligibility, hospital support, and funding mechanisms. What People Are Saying Representative Kim Young, a Republican from California, said in a statement: "Seniors shouldn't be punished for working later in life. Unfortunately, Americans can face higher fees for delaying Medicare enrollment. The Medicare Economic Security Solutions Act will cap these unnecessary, burdensome fees hurting seniors already struggling on fixed income." Representative Nikema Williams, a Democrat from Georgia, said in a statement: "Seniors in Georgia's Fighting Fifth and across the country are finding themselves hit with surprise fees simply because they didn't know all the rules about signing up for Medicare. It doesn't have to be this way. The Medicare Economic Security Solutions Act makes sure seniors who continued to work are not unnecessarily punished for missing confusing deadlines. This bill is about protecting our seniors and helping them get the care they've earned." Drew Powers, the founder of Illinois-based Powers Financial Group, told Newsweek: "Most late enrollees miss the deadline because of confusion around still-working exceptions and the Special Enrollment Period once employment and group health coverage ends. It is typically an honest mistake that results in egregious penalties. This bill is a step in the right direction for our senior citizens, and with bipartisan sponsorship it has a good chance to pass." Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, told Newsweek: "It would be welcome news to any recipients who find themselves in one of these situations and, with many concerned about potential cuts to Medicare and Medicaid, it would be a positive development to share." What Happens Next The Medicare Economic Security Solutions Act awaits action in Congress, where it must pass committees and secure majorities in both chambers before becoming law. "Fears of growing deficits could through cold water on the proposal, as while no one wants to pay penalties, those dollars are ones the federal government can't afford to discard at this time," Beene said. If enacted, its provisions would take effect after a 90-day transition period, delivering prompt changes to Medicare penalty rules for eligible seniors.


Health Line
a day ago
- Business
- Health Line
10 Common Medicare Myths Debunked
There is a lot of information about Medicare, which can lead to various misconceptions or 'myths' about the program. Debunking these myths can help you better understand your options and coverage. Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people over 65 or who have certain illnesses or disabilities. There are many options when it comes to Medicare plans and coverage. People may find the various options and enrollment confusing. Explaining some common misconceptions may help you make the best Medicare choices for your circumstances. Glossary of common Medicare terms Out-of-pocket cost: This is the amount you pay for care when Medicare doesn't pay the full cost or offer coverage. It includes premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. Premium: This is the monthly amount you pay for Medicare coverage. Deductible: This is the annual amount you must spend out of pocket before Medicare begins to cover services and treatments. Coinsurance: This is the percentage of treatment costs you're responsible for paying out of pocket. With Medicare Part B, you typically pay 20%. Copayment: This is a fixed dollar amount you pay when receiving certain treatments or services. With Medicare, this often applies to prescription medications. Myth 1: Medicare Part B is free Medicare Part B helps cover outpatient services and treatments. However, there are out-of-pocket costs involved. Everyone with Medicare is responsible for paying the Part B monthly premium, which starts at $185 and may be higher depending on your income. You are also responsible for paying the $257 Part B deductible. Once you meet this deductible, Medicare will cover 80% of the approved costs for your care, leaving you responsible for the other 20% of the costs. A note on Medicare Advantage If you have a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan, you are still required to pay the Part B premium, as well as your plan premium. However, your Medicare Advantage plan will set its own deductible. Myth 2: I can enroll in Medicare whenever I want You are eligible to enroll in Medicare when you turn 65 years old. You have an initial enrollment period that runs for 7 months, beginning 3 months before your birthday and ending 3 months after. During this time, you can enroll in any plan. Medicare also has an open enrollment period from October 15 to December 7 each year. During this time, you can join, drop, or switch to a new plan. If you do not sign up for Medicare parts A and B when you become eligible, you may be subject to late enrollment penalties. Myth 3: Medicare plans are only available through the federal government There are four parts to Medicare, and only two of them are available through the federal government. The four parts are: Part A Part B Part C (Medicare Advantage) Part D Part A and Part B make up Original Medicare, which is provided by the federal government. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) runs the Medicare program, while the Social Security Administration (SSA) processes your enrollment. Medicare Advantage (Part C) and prescription drug coverage (Part D) are provided by Medicare-approved private insurance companies. The insurance providers and plans vary by area. You can find plans in your area using the Medicare online search tool. Myth 4: Medicare covers all of my medical expenses Medicare does have comprehensive coverage for healthcare. However, there are still out-of-pocket expenses involved. Original Medicare (parts A and B) also does not include prescription drug coverage. You will need to purchase a Part D plan from a Medicare-approved private insurance company. Each part of Medicare has its own costs that you are responsible for paying. These include: premiums deductibles copayments coinsurance Medicare cost examples Most people with Medicare Part A do not pay a premium. However, you are responsible for paying the inpatient deductible and the coinsurance for each day you are in the hospital. $1,676 deductible per benefit period Days 1 to 60: $0 after the deductible is met Days 61 to 90: $419 per day Days 91 to 150: $838 per day while using lifetime reserve days After day 150: all costs Everyone with Medicare must pay the Part B premium. The Part B costs include: Premium: $185 or more, depending on income Deductible: $257 annually Coinsurance: 20% of Medicare-approved costs Myth 5: I will be automatically enrolled in Medicare The only time you will be automatically enrolled in Medicare is if you are already receiving Social Security benefits when you become eligible. Otherwise, you will have to go to the SSA website and enroll in Medicare when you become eligible. Medicare and SSDI Anyone who is receiving Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is eligible to receive Medicare after 24 months of receiving SSDI. »Learn more: How to apply for Medicare Myth 6: Medicare will notify me when it's time to enroll Medicare won't notify you when you become eligible to enroll. It is up to you to sign up when you become eligible. Generally, you become eligible to enroll 3 months before your 65th birthday. However, you have until 3 months after your birthday to sign up without late enrollment penalties. Myth 7: Medicare Advantage and Medicare Supplement plans are the same While both Medicare Advantage (Part C) and Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) are provided by Medicare-approved private insurance companies, they are separate coverage plans. Medicare Advantage (Part C) is an alternative to Original Medicare (parts A and B), and the plans within the former offer the same coverage as the latter. However, they often come with prescription drug coverage (Part D) and additional benefits not covered by Original Medicare, like vision, dental, and hearing. Medigap is extra insurance you can purchase from private insurance companies to help cover costs associated with Original Medicare, such as copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. You cannot have Medigap with a Medicare Advantage plan. You are only eligible to purchase a Medigap plan if you have Original Medicare. Myth 8: Medicare and Medicaid are the same thing Medicare is a federal health insurance program that is generally for people over 65 years old. If you have certain illnesses or disabilities, you may also qualify for Medicare coverage. Since this is a federal program, the coverage and costs are standard no matter where you live, except for Medicare Advantage plans. Medicare is funded through your out-of-pocket costs and taxes as well as two government trust funds. Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps pay for medical costs for people with limited incomes. The federal government has certain rules all Medicaid programs must follow. However, each state runs its own program, meaning benefits and eligibility requirements can vary from state to state. People with Medicaid don't typically pay anything for covered medical expenses. However, they may owe a copayment for certain items or services. Myth 9: Medicare costs the same for everyone Many Medicare costs can vary. For example, most people do not pay a premium for Part A. However, if you have not earned enough work credits by working and paying Medicare taxes, you can purchase Part A. Depending on how long you have worked, you will pay either $285 or $518 per month. You may also pay a higher premium for Part B if your income is above $106,000 as an individual or $212,000 as a married couple. The costs of Medicare Advantage (Part C), Part D, and Medigap all vary based on the plan you choose and the area you live in. Myth 10: I can't sign up for Medicare because of my health Medicare will cover you even if you have preexisting conditions. You are eligible for Medicare when you turn 65 years old, even if you have current health issues. You are also eligible for Medicare if you have certain illnesses or disabilities, like end stage renal disease (ESRD) or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Takeaway There are various misconceptions or 'myths' about Medicare, so it's easy to become overwhelmed and confused. Understanding the difference between myth and fact can help you navigate Medicare easily and make informative decisions on your coverage. The information on this website may assist you in making personal decisions about insurance, but it is not intended to provide advice regarding the purchase or use of any insurance or insurance products. Healthline Media does not transact the business of insurance in any manner and is not licensed as an insurance company or producer in any U.S. jurisdiction. Healthline Media does not recommend or endorse any third parties that may transact the business of insurance.


Health Line
2 days ago
- Business
- Health Line
Does Medicare Cover Mycotoxin Testing?
Although Medicare does not specifically mention mycotoxin testing, Medicare Part B may cover mycotoxin tests if a doctor deems it medically necessary. Mycotoxins are toxic compounds that certain types of molds and fungi produce. They occur naturally but can contaminate food and some indoor environments. Common mycotoxins include: Aflatoxins: Different types of aflatoxins grow in soil, rotting vegetation, hay, grains, cereals, corn, sorghum, wheat, rice, soybeans, peanuts, sunflower seeds, cotton seeds, chili and black pepper, coriander, turmeric, ginger, pistachio nuts, almonds, walnuts, coconuts, and Brazil nuts. Ochratoxins: These types can contaminate foods, including cereals and cereal products, coffee beans, dry vine fruits, wine, grape juice, spices, and licorice. Patulin: These can be found in rotting fruit, with the main dietary sources found in apples and apple juice made from affected fruit. Fusarium fungi: These are often found in cereal crops, wheat, oats, and maize. Tests for mycotoxins and Medicare coverage A doctor or healthcare professional may order tests to look for signs of myotoxicity, such as a blood serum test, skin prick testing for particular mold allergens, a bronchial challenge test, or urinalysis. Medicare Part B will typically cover these tests as long as they are medically essential. There are no out-of-pocket costs for these clinical diagnostic lab tests. Symptoms of mycotoxicity Mycotoxins can cause mild to more serious health conditions and some of the symptoms you may experience can include: coughing wheezing nasal congestion skin rashes watery eyes itching muscle aches fatigue liver damage Additionally, people with weakened immune systems may experience heightened sensitivity to mycotoxins. Reducing the risk of mycotoxins You can minimize health risks related to mycotoxins by: Inspecting your food items: Inspect whole grains like corn, wheat, rice, dried figs, and nuts, including peanuts, Brazil nuts, pistachios, walnuts, almonds, coconuts, and hazelnuts. Throw out foods that look moldy, have discoloration, or are shriveled. Ensuring freshness of food: Buy grains and nuts that are as fresh as possible. Taking care of food storage: Ensure your foods are stored correctly by keeping them dry, not too warm, and free from insects. Try not to keep foods for long periods before you use them and adhere to packing 'use by' dates. Diversifying your diet: Eating a variety of foods can help reduce your exposure to mycotoxins.