Anti-Cancer Foods : Heal Prostate Cancer Naturally

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From a western nutritional perspective, we know that including an abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean meats helps to strengthen our overall health, improve cardiovascular health, and create strong immunity systems.

A Chinese nutritional perspective embraces those ideals and expands the role of food as medicine in acknowledging that certain types of food have specific resonances with the energies of the immunity system and our abilities to release carcinogenic pathogens, and give support to the body to recover from surgery, radiation and chemotherapy.

Turnips

This remarkable yet common healing food has an impact on all 12 meridians (energy pathways in the body) to help us move out pathogens and detoxify the body.

Turnips in the diet can provide support to people who are going through chemotherapy or radiation therapies or for those who need to detoxify stress chemicals that form as we respond to everyday life.

In Asian countries, soups are made of turnip, carrots and cabbage to help strengthen the immunity system and heal from viruses, bacterial infections and other pathogens. A cup or two of this type of soup 4-7 times a week, can strengthen the internal organs and promote a vibrant flow of energy throughout the body. When our energy flows smoothly and without obstructions, disease cannot exist.

You can make this soup easily by using a base of 4 cups of organic chicken broth (low sodium or organic vegetable broth), 3 large turnips diced, 3 large carrots diced, and 1/2 cup of white cabbage. Add in 1-2 tsp of toasted garlic, 1 small purple onion, 2 tsp of fennel seed, and 2 stalks of finely chopped organic celery for flavor.

Bring to boil, then simmer for one hour.

Lycopene Rich Foods

Lycopene is similar to beta carotene, a powerful anti-oxidant that helps to prevent cancer. Lycopene occurs naturally in the prostate and declines with age. However, we can help to support healthy levels of lycopene through diet.

Foods rich in lycopene include red vegetables and fruit, especially cooked or processed tomatoes. Other foods include pink grapefruit (check for interactions with certain cancer and other medications), watermelons, apricots, and pink guava.

However, before you rush out to buy lycopene supplements, you should also be aware that the efficacy of supplements of lycopene and high consumption of lycopene rich foods has been questioned by the FDA after examining data from 107 observational studies and 23 studies that included blood analysis.

The FDA stated that consuming lycopene supplements or high amounts of lycopene rich foods does not have a significant impact on prostate health and cancer. The FDA's position on this issue was reported in the Journal of Cancer Institute (July 10, 2007) issue.

Yet, anecdotal clinical evidence exists of clients improving their PSA levels (levels that indicate the health of the prostate) by adding lycopene rich foods to their diets.

From a Chinese nutritional perspective, lycopene and other anti-oxidants are not magic bullets. Instead, it is thought that the presence of anti-oxidants such as lycopene, in combination with other nutritional and energetic properties of foods, can be a powerful tool in helping the body to detoxify and protect against cancer. This is why it is important to take a balanced approach and integrate a wide variety of foods in the diet.

Similarly, the American Cancer Society advocates a diet comprised of a wide variety of foods as opposed to being excessive with any one food or taking high levels of anti-oxidant supplements.

Pumpkin Seeds

This simple food appears to diminish the triggering of prostate cell multiplication by testosterone and DHT (dihydrotestosterone-a conversion product of testosterone). As a result, pumpkin seeds may help to prevent enlargement of the prostate gland.

Pumpkin seeds help to create healthier cholesterol levels, and protect bones by providing a source of zinc (low levels are associated with more hip fractures and osteoporosis) .

Sprinkle raw pumpkin seeds over salads, into soups and over other favorite foods. For added flavor, you might wish to toast the seeds but the nutritional value is higher when eaten raw.

Organic Chicken

In the Chinese nutritional system, chicken helps to strengthen the internal organs of the kidneys, said to rule our reproductive organs on an energy level. Organic chicken is free of hormones, antibiotics and pesticides, and helps to detoxify the body. Chicken is also a lean source of protein.

Include other lean organic meats and fresh produce to further reduce toxins in the diet.

Affordable sources of organic produce and some meats are available at local farmer's markets. Also, you may wish to join a community garden to obtain the freshest sources economically and help others partake of organic foods.

Drink Healing Beverages

Decaf green tea, chrysanthemum tea, barley tea, red clover, and saw palmetto tea: All of these natural teas are rich in anti-oxidants and have detoxifying properties.

Chrysanthemum has a cooling, detoxifying effect. When combined with a small amount of decaf green tea, cinnamon and ginger, chrysanthemum can help quell nausea from chemotherapy and radiation therapies.

Trained Chinese herbalists often combine chrysanthemum with other herbs to create a decoction or tea that helps to heal prostate cancer.

Foods to Avoid

Decrease the level of sugar, caffeine, and fat in your diet, particularly trans-fatty acids. Read labels. When you see the word" hydrogenated," that is a clue that trans-fatty acids are present. All of these foods create excessive heat in the body on an energy level. Since the energy of cancer is hot, if we diminish foods that feed heat, we can also protect our bodies against cancer.

Similarly, chemotherapy and radiation are also hot in nature. By reducing hot natured foods in our diet, we can empower ourselves to minimize the side effects of these types of treatments and detoxify the body.

Eliminate sugar substitutes such as sucralose (Splenda) and aspartame (Nutrasweet). Although many studies have produced data which suggest that these sugar substitute sweeteners are safe for regular human consumption, these products do not contain properties that heal the internal organs.

Also eliminate sweeteners which contain saccharin, which studies have found is associated with certain health risks such as birth defects and cancer.


Please note that information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical conditions. Please consult with your medical physician before implementing any new dietary changes when recovering from prostate health challenges.


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Natural Remedies Explored - Cancer

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Another very serious subject and not to be dealt with glibly, so I will not be making bold claims about a cure all.

It seems that cancerous cells are present in all of us but when our immune system fails to kill these cells they multiply rapidly.

Our immune systems needs a good diet to be able to function correctly and it is for this reason why scientists recommend 5 helpings of fresh fruit and veg a day:


Poor levels of vitamin C have been linked with cancer of the oesophagus, larynx and the cervix.
Cervical cancer has also been associated with low levels of folate and vit B6.
Low levels of beta carotene are linked with cancer of the larynx, lung, stomach, large bowel and the bladder.
Fibre is thought to be vital protection against cancer of the colon, rectum, prostate, uterus and breast.

The theme that seems to apply to all health problems is a good diet, which is based on a moderate intake of unrefined complex carbohydrates, moderate amount of protein, low amounts of saturated fat, plenty of fresh fruit and veg.

Berries contain ellargic acid, gallic acid, flavonoids, tannins, phenolic acid and lignans all of which, are thought to fight against the development of cancer. I am not sure if we are talking about every type of berry or a combination of different berries here, most likely the latter. Phenolic compounds from Blueberries apparently limit cancer cells ability to multiply and can also kill them.

Certain mushrooms apparently suppress oestrogen production, especially in post menopausal women. I have read a claim that 60% of pre-menopausal women and 75 % of post menopausal women with breast cancer had excess oestrogen, which had triggered the cancer. The mushrooms contain a phytochemical called conjugated linoleic acid (CLA). This inhibits the protein that makes oestrogen. If you know the name of the mushrooms containing the CLA please let me know. Since I first wrote this I have read up some more and looked at a few forums. It seems a number of mushrooms are quite useful for varying reasons, but I still cannot find a source to confirm which mushrooms contain CLA.

Selenium is a very important antioxidant. In some countries, such as the UK, levels of selenium in the soil are very poor. Therefore it would seem important to supplement the diet. Brazil nuts are a good natural source of the mineral.


Pomegranates - research has shown the juice maybe able to prevent prostate cancer.
Red grapefruit contains lycopene, as do tomatoes and sweet red peppers, which is a potent antioxidant. Grapefruit is also a good source of limonoids and vitamin C, both shown to have anticancer properties.

As I said earlier cancer is a very serious subject and I feel loathed to make claims about natural cures for the condition. Personally I rather prefer to talk about doing everything we can to prevent cancer from developing in the first place. Herbs play a strong role in this but you may wish to look at this site if you unfortunately do have cancer. I have no association with the site.

Please feel free to discuss your experiences with me.

Philip has years of experience in studying and using herbal and homeopathic remedies and wants to share his knowledge through his website and forum at:

http://theapothecary.890m.com - theapothecary.890m™ is a trademark of Philip Bailey.

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Five Herbs to Treat Cancer

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There is a great deal of interest today about the use of Chinese herbs to treat cancer. This interest is caused for several reasons. Two reasons are (1) the high cost of traditional cancer treatments; and (2) the side effects of the synthetic drugs that are used in conventional cancer treatments.

It is important to note that any treatment for cancer should be discussed with the presiding physician. Some combinations of drugs and herbs can cause an adverse reaction.

It is also important to note that the information provided here should not be considered medical advice. It isn't intended to replace the advice offered by your physician. This is merely information.

Dong ling cao: Dong ling cao was not listed in herbal dictionaries of early dynasties. It became available only in 1972. Dong ling cao is being used to treat cancer of the esophagus, breast, and liver, as well as for swelling of throat, insect bites, snake bites, and inflammation of the tonsils.

Yi yi ren (also called semen coicis): Yi yi ren is typically used to invigorate the function of the spleen and to reduce pain and swelling caused by arthritis. It is also used to relieve diarrhea, to remove heat, and to facilitate the drainage of pus. Yi yi ren is used by Chinese herbalists to treat cancer of the lung or spleen.

Tu fu ling: In animal studies, tu fu ling has proven especially effective in treating cancers in the urinary tract (bladder) and the liver.

Ling zhi: Ling zhi is used to enhance the immune system. Specifically, ling zhi is known to increase monocytes, macrophages, T-lymphocyt cytokine, interleukin, tumor necrosis, and interferon.

Ren Shen: Ren Shen is a herb that is known to enhance the immune system, and it helps to relieve the side effects caused by chemotherapy and radiation therapy, as well.



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Breast Cancer And How To Help Avoid It Through Diet

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It is often said that the most important ingredient in the Mediterranean diet is extra virgin olive oil. However, some would argue that. Most of the notoriety of the Mediterranean diet is due to research unlike other high profile diets which have normally received their promotional thrust through commercial vehicles. The facts remain that hardly anyone would take any notice of the Mediterranean diet except for the highly satisfactory findings that have resulted from universities and food research foundations across the globe.

The reason I mentioned extra virgin olive oil first up is because it's always present in any of the many countries who are labeled with using the diet. You would think that this would make the diet high in fat. The calorie intake from the Mediterranean diet that comes from fat is over 30%. However, all the fat is 100% unsaturated fat and is a product of olive oil. This means (in general) that the fat that comes from extra virgin olive oil is a healthy type of fat.

From another angle, it means that the fat from olives does not trigger unhealthy consequences which are said to come from animal fat. This is also supported by several scientific studies in the USA and Europe in the last decade which indicate that extra virgin olive oil and a diet high in fruits and vegetables can work to lower the incidence of breast cancer in women.

Extra Virgin Olive Oil differs to day-to-day olive oil in that extra virgin olive oil comes from the first crush. Thereby retaining many of the nutrients. If you decide to work with the Mediterranean diet, you would be wise to shop only for extra virgin olive oil and make that a discipline.

I hope this tidbit of knowledge helps.

Copyright 2007 Ray Darken - Here's where you can find more on the Mediterranean diet and its Relevance to Women. You could also try this Mediterranean diet guide if you are serious about the diet.

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Five Herbs May Fight Cancer

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Herbs for cancer generally refer to herbal supplements that may support in preventing the onset of cancerous growths and promoting general well-being by boosting the body's immune system.

Here are Five Herbs that may help to fight cancer

Echinacea: It is one of the best blood purifiers and an effective antibiotic. It helps to activate the human immune system increasing the chances of fighting off any disease. This popular herb has been used to help ward off the common cold and to relieve the symptoms of hay fever.

Dandelion: It is used traditionally as a remarkable healing and preventive herb. Dandelion is good for the liver and digestion and it is considered an excellent diuretic. It purifies and nourishes the blood, stimulates bile flow, increases stomach juices and relieves constipation.

Valerian: It has been used as a mild tranquilizer and sleep aid for over 1,000 years. It promotes better sleeping and to eliminate some of the anxiety of a cancer patient.

Astragalus: It is a traditional Chinese herb that has been in use for two thousand years, it is another cancer-fighting herb that has been shown to slow down metastasis (spread of cancer cells) and to stimulate the immune system’s T-cells. Astragalus also protects against the toxic effects of chemotherapy.

Burdock: It has been traditionally used as a "blood purifier" to clear the bloodstream of toxins, as a diuretic. It also contains proven anti-cancer compounds that have shown to be active against leukemia, lymphoma and various types of tumours. It has many medicinal qualities and has been used in many herbal remedies.

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Alternative Medicine and Cancer - The Hype and the Truth

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While there are many unfounded claims that state they have the newest cure for various forms of cancer, the reality is that none of them have shown reputed scientific studies to support their claims.

There are, however, some herbal combinations that can be combined with traditional medicine that have shown promise. A prime example is bloodroot and skin cancer. The Native Americans along Lake Superior were the first reported ones to use the sap of the herb on skin cancerous growths with documented success. In "Medical botany" they state their have been successful cases using the herb in treating both breast cancer and superficial cancerous growths.

A traditional beverage known to nearly every man is coffee. coffee enemas have been prescribed for cancer in many areas around the world. Though this is not scientifically proven; it is known that caffeine is a stimulate that reacts with the nervous system and may in fact open blood flow while stimulate the immune system in a variety of ways. It is currently being studied at various Universities to determine how and if this claim can be confirmed.

In Germany and Australia there is an extract called V.album which is made from mistletoe that is currently being used to treat certain tumorous cancers with some reported success. Dr. James Duke describes the new research results as a study in which laboratory settings were able to treat cancer cells individually with the same extract of mistletoe. The danger is that if not done properly mistletoe is toxic.

Tropical Periwinkle is one of those gifts from nature. Currently Eli Lilly and Company has been conducting studies with the herb and has produced two drugs known world wide as Velban and Oncovin to treat cancer. The Vinblastine sulfate is known to treat Hodgkin's disease and choriocarcinoma. Vincristine which is the alkaloid found in the herb is also used to treat childhood leukemia and breast cancer. When these two parts are administered together, they have shown a 43 percent beneficial result with patients with malignant lymphoma. Although the benefits are immense, there is a danger of toxicity and your doctor should be involved in treatment with this herb.

While herbs can be additive to curing cancer in some cases, the far more beneficial effects can be obtained in using herbal medicine for the additive benefits. It is thought that nearly one in every three Americans will get some form of cancer. Cancer is not a single entity with a certain cause but rather a complex disease with over 200 different classifications. If you ask any oncologist what are the most important factors in overcoming and preventing cancer, they will tell you diet and nutrition. Simply your lifestyle.

It is a proven fact that most cancers are caused or aggravated by nutritional deficiencies that have accumulated over the years. Therefore, reducing fact intake, eating vegetables and using plant enzyme therapy may be the single most important aspect of preventing cancer. Simply by adding two fruits and three vegetable servings to your diet daily have been shown to have amazing results. Some studies show that eating fruit twice a day can reduce your likelihood of lung cancer alone by nearly 75 percent.

There are known allopathic formulas that have shown positive results in helping systemic cancers of the colon, bowel, stomach organ and lungs, malignant tumors, melanoma, leukemia, and skin cancers. Many have had astounding results using herbal compounds to rebuild the body's natural system after chemotherapy and radiation treatment.

Just as each cancer is different, every herbal formula is different and should be customized by a herbalist for the best and safest results.


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