Cancer Blog and Forum

Carcinogenesis
By Lisa Ginger

Carcinogenesis is the act of forming a cancer. Carcinogens cause mutations in our DNA which can lead to cancer. Therefore, chemicals that cause cancer are called carcinogens. Studies estimate that 2/3 of all cancers are caused by environmental carcinogens that could be eliminated. These carcinogens include tobacco, various chemicals, viruses, dietary factors, radiation sources and sunlight.

How do carcinogens work? Chemical carcinogens, whether they are natural or man-made, cause injuries to the cell in the same basic manner. A carcinogen (radiation, pesticide, tobacco smoke, etc...) enters the tissue of an individual. Once a carcinogen enters the body, it is broken down into an unstable molecule. These chemically unstable molecules are called free radicals.

These free radicals may directly interact with cellular material, like DNA. Free radicals can take nicks out of DNA and alter it. If the free radicals do interact with DNA and nick it, the DNA may become altered. This is how mistakes (or mutations) to our DNA may result.

If you remember our discussion of DNA and cancer, it is the alterations in DNA that may eventually lead to cancer. Sometimes the free radicals interact with other areas of a cell, but the greatest impact can occur when a specific piece of DNA is damaged.

Just imagine, every time we are exposed to a carcinogen, these free radicals form and bump into structures within a cell causing all sorts of damage. It is a miracle our bodies are able to prevent cancers as often as they do since we are exposed to so many carcinogens in our daily lives!

Much of our exposure to carcinogens is from natural sources. For example, the sunlight we are exposed to every day is carcinogenic. The cells within our bodies have developed incredible mechanisms to compensate for carcinogens, but there is a limit to the amount of exposure they can take. If an individual is exposed to too many carcinogens, their body can become “overloaded with free radicals”. In these instances, inevitably, something will wind up damaged.

This section on carcinogens does not intend to point out everything that is thought to be carcinogenic, just some of the things you should be aware of. In some of our other articles, we focus on radiation and some of the earth’s natural substances. In addition we will cover the man-made cancer causing agents that are polluting our food, water, and probably even the places we live and work in. It is a rising concern and pressure from everyday citizens that will keep the problems from getting worse.

Please review free cancer prevention articles written by knowledgeable scientists and doctors at Cancer Prevention Report -- Our health is our most precious asset.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lisa_Ginger

A recent study has revealed a reason why eating too much red meat can increase the risk of the cancer. Discussed in this article, scientists have that red meat increases levels of compounds in the bowel that can alter DNA and increase the risk of cancer: "They found that red meat consumption was linked to increased levels of substances called N-nitroso compounds, which are formed in the large bowel. The compounds may stick to DNA, making it more likely to undergo mutations that increase the odds of cancer." There is hope that the results of the stidy may help lead to methods of ealier detection of colorectal cancer.

Four Major Phases of Tumor Formation
By Lisa Ginger

To summarize, there are four major phases of tumor formation. Each phase can take years to complete. The first one alone usually takes anywhere from 15 to 30 years.

The first phase occurs when normal cells mutate into tumor cells and begin dividing out-of-control. This may take place over successive generations of cells. When just the right mutations occur, the cells will divide and grow to a small tumor.

The second phase is called Carcinoma in situ. This phase is classified by the presence of a cancerous tumor that has not yet invaded other tissues. This phase usually lasts between 5-10 years and is limited by the nutrient flow to the tumor. If blood vessels can be induced to grow into the tumor (angiogenesis), the tumor will progress to the next phase, called the invasive stage.

The invasive phase can happen rapidly, requiring only a few months. However, in some cases it may take up to five years. This phase is dependent on the ability of the tumor to invoke nearby blood vessels to grow toward it and provide it with nutrients - commonly referred to as angiogenesis.

Metastasis, or dissemination to other tissues if the final phase. This phase has the same time period as the invasive phase, ranging from a few months to five years.

At each phase, the cancer can either progress further or altogether diminish. If you add each phase up, the average for the cell mutating events and cancer diagnosis is 20-50 years apart. This is why cancer mostly affects older people. Actually, half of all cancers are diagnosed after the age of 65.

A Few Checks and Balances...
- Mutations must occur, but the cell must still live and divide.
- DNA repair mechanisms must not be activated.
- Our own immune system must not find the tumor and destroy it.
- The tumor must get enough nutrients to continue to grow.

Please review free cancer prevention articles written by knowledgeable scientists and doctors at…
Cancer Prevention Report -- Our health is our most precious asset.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lisa_Ginger

Cancer and Alternative Medicine: An Overview
By Melissa Buhmeyer

Alternative medicine is the use of means, in addition to, or instead of conventional, to treat disease or pain. There is lots of controversy surrounding alternative medicine, especially in the cancer arena, because most of it is unproven, as far as the medical world is concerned. To be proven, a treatment must have undergone peer-reviewed, controlled studies. However, if you know where to look, you can find plenty of research to support the efficacy of many alternative therapies.

Every day, more and more of us are becoming fed up with conventional medicine's way of doing things; I mean, let's face it … Western medicine's focus is managing a disease once it occurs. Many alternative methods can be used as preventive instead of management. Once I started thinking about it, I knew there just had to be a better way. That's when my alternative journey began.

The many different avenues of alternative medicine, can be overwhelming and there are many with which I do not have personal experience. But, this is your starting point … a broad overview, not all-encompassing, by any means, of breast cancer alternative medicine. Some of these methods are palliative (help manage pain and discomfort of cancer and its treatment), some are complementary (to be used in addition to conventional), some are intended to be preventive, and others look promising as adjuvant treatments.

Manual Healing and Physical Touch

This is a huge category that includes acupuncture, chiropractic, massage, and Reiki, to name a few. Acupuncture is derived from Chinese medicine and involves inserting tiny needles through the skin into specific energy pathways on the body. This method interrupts the energy that flows through the body and is based on balanced Qi. There is lots of controversy surrounding whether acupuncture can be used as a method of treating cancer, itself, but it is thoroughly documented to alleviate pain and nausea from cancer and its treatments.

Chiropractic is the correction of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system. It is achieved by adjustments to the spine and neck. There are traditional chiropractors who adjust the entire spine and then there are Direct Non-Force Technique chiropractors who alleviate neurotransmitter interference, throughout the body, by specific, targeted adjustments. The thinking, here, is that the body has the means to heal itself and seeks to maintain balance within itself. Correcting the musculoskeletal disorders helps to regain the balance that has been lost.

Massage has been found, by recent studies, to provide more alertness and less depression, stress, anxiety, and pain. There are many different forms of massage, ranging from deep tissue to a basic relaxation massage. Many health care providers are proponents of massage therapy in addition to conventional treatment.

Reiki is a Japanese word that means universal life energy. This is a method that is typically performed in person but can be performed from a distance. The thinking behind Reiki is that, when the energy pathways of the body are blocked, it results in disease and/or pain. A Reiki practitioner can unblock these pathways, resulting in less pain and muscle tension, and increased ability for the body to heal itself.

Herbs, Minerals, Vitamins, Diet, and Nutritional Supplements

This is one of the roads I've chosen, for myself, based on careful research and consideration. There is evidence that shows that what we eat plays a big role in cancer prevention and it's in the news all the time. In the evolution of our society, our foods have become more and more processed, and less and less nutritious. Farmers use pesticides to keep the bugs from getting our produce. They use hormones to grow our chickens, cattle, and pigs larger faster, so they can make money off them sooner. Of course, it doesn't occur to them, or maybe they just don't care, that those substances are then consumed by us. I didn't even realize those things were used until after I had been diagnosed. You mean I'm eating estrogen in my meat???? Wow, was that ever a wakeup call.

Most practitioners don't endorse the use of nutritional supplements simply because they haven't been approved by the FDA … this premise amazes me because there have been many drugs, that have been approved by the FDA, that have caused serious injury and/or death. There are many nutritional supplements that show serious promise in the prevention, and possibly even treatment, of breast cancer. The studies are out there, if you know where to look.

Naturopathy

Naturopathy is another technique that uses the body's innate ability to heal itself. It is based on the concept that everything, within the body, is related and that if you have pain or illness, that is an alarm your body sets off to get your attention and let you know something is wrong. The naturopathic way of thinking is that your body begins to let you know something is out of balance … perhaps you aren't digesting your food correctly, or you have some hormones out of balance … and it begins a snowball effect, throughout your organs, until it gets your attention. Everything is related and, if there is a problem in one area, another area tries to take up the slack and becomes overworked, and so on. Naturopaths use natural means, such as homeopathic remedies, natural agents, manipulation, or electrical treatment to obtain balance so that the body can heal itself.

Homeopathy

This is the practice of using minute doses of active ingredients to produce the body's own defense and healing process. It, like naturopathy, strives to achieve homeostasis (balance) so the body can heal itself. Homeopathic remedies work much like a vaccine does to our bodies and is based on the premise of like fixes like. Homeopaths prescribe substances that would cause symptoms, in a healthy person, for the purpose of healing those same symptoms in a sick person. For example, a homeopath would prescribe minute amounts of thyroid to someone whose thyroid was overactive for the purpose of the thyroid building a defense to this and slowing itself down.

This is, by no means, an exhaustive overview of alternative therapies, but is, as stated, an overview. For more in-depth discussions on this as well as conventional breast cancer treatments please visit our website below.

Melissa Buhmeyer is a breast cancer survivor and has been so for seven years. She is also the founder of http://www.breastcancer-treatment.us , a site focusing on breast cancer treatment options, news, articles, and survivor experiences.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Melissa_Buhmeyer

Can a Tumor Get More Nutrients?
By Lisa Ginger

All tissues need to be continually bathed in nutrients. They get these nutrients from the continuous flow of blood through blood vessels. This is why blood vessels run throughout our entire bodies. An aggressive tumor can take advantage of this fact.

Tumors can actually induce new blood vessels to form within them so that they can receive nutrients. This process is called angiogenesis. Make no mistake, it's eerie.

The tumor cells actually stimulate the cells lining nearby blood vessels to grow toward them. They achieve this by sending out a signal. This signal stimulates the cells within the nearest blood vessels to divide 20 to 2000 times faster than usual. Due to their unnaturally quick growth, the new blood vessels are usually not quite normal and much less effective at carrying blood, but they can still provide the necessary nutrients to the tumor.

All tumors consisting of more than about one million cells have reached a point where they must achieve angiogenesis. Otherwise, the tumor will not have enough nutrients to continue growing and will stay the same size confined to that location. Therefore, many researchers have focused their efforts the area of angiogenesis.

It is hoped that scientists will find a way to stop the process of tumor angiogenesis. If a tumor’s growth could be halted it would essentially become harmless. A tumor smaller than a pea would most likely not even be noticed - and would probably not have any harmful effects on the individual (although this can depend on its location). Even in a tumor that had progressed to a larger size, halting angiogenesis might halt its growth and would help prevent it from spreading. This would be incredibly beneficial to a patient diagnosed with cancer. A tumor's growth could be halted and then if possible, it could be surgically removed, or eradicated by chemotherapy.

Our health is our most precious asset. Please review free cancer prevention articles at: Cancer Prevention Report

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lisa_Ginger

Stacking The Deck – Choosing Foods That Fight Cancer
By Jean Fisher

The healthiest diet, of course, is to eat a wide variety of foods including as many whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables as possible. But, there are some foods that, through their chemical natures, are better at protecting the body from cancer. This article identifies nine of these super-foods, the natural components found in them, and a simplified description of how these phytochemicals work their magic.

Before we do that, however, two very important dietary rules for avoiding cancer must be mentioned: low fat, high fiber. A diet that is high in animal fats requires the body to release extra bile acids into the intestines during digestion. The natural bacteria that live in our intestines react with these excess bile acids resulting in the creation of carcinogens. Eating plenty of fiber keeps the intestines moving quickly, not allowing these carcinogens to cause damage before being eliminated from the body. In addition, fiber in the intestines actually binds with the bile acids not allowing them to react with the natural bacteria.

The human body is constantly producing unstable molecules called oxidants. You may have heard these oxidants referred to as free radicals. Free radicals steal electrons from other molecules which damages the cell proteins and DNA of the original molecule. This damage leaves the cell vulnerable to cancer. The active chemicals in food, called phytochemicals, are anti-oxidants. They search out the oxidants (free radicals) and prevent them from causing damage. In some instances, phytochemicals can even repair damage already done. Here’s how it works.

Broccoli

Sulforaphane, found in broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables, boosts the body’s natural cancer fighting properties. It does this by mobilizing special enzymes in the body called phase II detoxifying enzymes. These enzymes neutralize cancer-causing agents before they can affect cells. To receive the maximum benefit of sulforaphane, broccoli should be eaten raw. Scientists recently discovered that broccoli sprouts contain levels of sulforaphane that are much, much higher than those found in mature broccoli. You’ll be seeing a lot more broccoli sprouts on my sandwiches and salads!

Carrots

Another recent discovery in the science of plant chemicals is falcarinol found in carrots. Falcarinol acts as a natural pesticide for the carrot while it is growing, keeping it protected from fungal diseases. The exact mechanism that falcarinol uses to fight cancer is still unknown.

Chili Peppers

Capsaicin is the chemical in hot peppers that give them their bite. At a cellular level, capsaicin induces a state called apoptosis in the cancer cells. Apoptosis can be defined as programmed cell death. You could say that it causes the cancer cell to commit suicide.

Garlic

Garlic contains a chemical allium, which works to increase activity of our body’s natural immune cells. Allium also causes cells to become more vulnerable to stress created by the by-products of cell division. Since cancer cells divide very rapidly, they are affected by allium more than normal cells, which divide much more slowly.

Nuts

Nuts are one of nature’s best sources of selenium. Selenium has been shown to improve the efficiency with which DNA repairs itself after exposure to damaging free radicals. Brazil nuts eaten from the shell are especially high in selenium. In addition, nuts contain omega-3 fatty acid. The omega-3 fatty acids block a protein that has been shown to increase sensitivity to carcinogens in laboratory studies.

Red grapes

Anthocyanins, found in dark red and purple foods, can reduce the growth of an enzyme, human DNA topoisomerase II, that triggers the growth of cancer cells in the human body. Grape juice is an excellent source of anthocyanins. Good news, read the labels of 100% fruit drinks and you are very likely to find grape juice.

Soy

The phytochemical in soy, genistein, inhibits the growth of new blood vessels necessary for tumor survival. Without these blood vessels, the tumor shrinks. Soy also works to block bile acids.

Tea

Antioxidants in tea, catechins, appear to prevent cancer cells from dividing. The phytochemical EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate) present in green tea, binds to a protein found on tumor cells and dramatically slows their growth.

Tomatoes

Lycopene, a very powerful antioxidant, isn’t found in many other fruits and vegetables. Lycopene stimulates the production of phase II detoxification enzymes which neutralize carcinogens and allow them to be excreted out of the body. Processing tomatoes by turning them into sauce increases the levels of lycopene.

So remember, choose vegetables fats over animal fats, pack your diet with a wide variety of fruits, vegetable and whole grains, and include the nine foods mentioned above often. Live a long, healthy, happy life!

Jean Fisher - http://www.whatsfordinner.net

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jean_Fisher

Health Supplements are Increasingly Involved With Cancer Natural Treatment and Prevention
By Paul Newland

Health supplements for preventing cancer and natural cancer treatment

There is no known single magic cure for cancer so the best advice is to do everything you possibly can to prevent cancer in the first place.

Supplementing with all 90 essential nutrients is an excellent cancer natural treatment and will ensure that your immune system is supported and your body is maintained in optimal health. For extra protection against cancer the following is a list of health supplements you should consider:

Selenium

Selenium is the king of all antioxidants and is reported to be one of the most powerful antioxidant minerals in the fight against cancer, according to Dr Gerhard Schrauzer, world authority on trace mineral research and nutrition. It is an essential cancer natural treatment.

An article in the Journal of the American Medical Association backs up this finding and also reports the benefits of selenium in lowering the incidence of a number of types of cancers. Also new evidence suggests that increasing levels of selenium in the diet can protect also against damaging rays from the sun.

Recently the US FDA upheld a claim by the nutritional company American Longevity to allow the health claim that selenium may reduce the risk of certain cancers and that selenium may produce anti-carcinogenic effects in the body.

A good Selenium antioxidant supplement should be the top of your list for a cancer natural treatment.

Lycopene

Lycopene is a recently discovered natural fat soluble pigment found in plants that can function in cancer natural treatment and prevention. The major food sources of lycopene are raw red or pink grapefruit, raw watermelon, and raw and processed food products containing tomatoes.
Recently (November 2005) the U.S. FDA upheld a health claim that Tomatoes and tomato-based products containing Lycopene may prevent certain forms of cancer. To read more about this you could go to the FDA website.

Antioxidant Vitamins

Significant and extensive research has been carried out on antioxidant vitamins such as Vitamin A and Vitamin C. The US FDA has approved the health claim, that the consumption of antioxidant vitamins may reduce the risk of certain kinds of cancer.

The best form of vitamin supplements is in liquid form - anyone suffering cancer or recovering from treatment may find absorption of food quite difficult and in these circumstances, liquids will always work best.

Green Tea

Green tea has been linked for some time to strong, anti-cancer effects. It is known that the tea’s anti-oxidants properties could fight harmful key molecules that cause cancer. [The Japanese have one of the lowest incidences of cancer in the world and much research is underway to further show how green tea can be used as a natural cancer treatment.]
A great deal of scientific evidence suggests that consumption of green tea and green tea extract may reduce the risk of gastric cancer and certain forms of cancer.

While the Japanese seem to like Green Tea, for many of us it is a little 'hard to swallow'. In this case, a supplement containing Green Tea may be of enormous benefit.

Fiber

Consumption of fiber may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer and is an excellent and easily consumed cancer natural treatment. Gastrointestinal cancers are the second leading cause of death among all cancer patients.
There are hundreds of reliable and competent scientific studies to suggest that consumption of about 25 – 30 grams daily of dietary fiber will reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.

Most people don’t consume nearly enough fiber and that’s why fiber supplements should be added so that you get the adequate protection.

Shark Cartilage

Shark cartilage is another natural supplement that can help stop the formation of new cancer growths and is often contained in good quality multi-mineral and multi-vitamin complexes.

According to Naturopath and health and longevity expert, Dr Joel Wallach, shark cartilage and shark liver oil have substances that stop the formation of capillaries that feed cancer cells when they spread.

Although this is not accepted as a cancer natural treatment by conventional oncologists, Dr Wallach points out that Harvard and Yale Medical Schools have 25 years of research proving this to be the case. Dr Wallach recommends using shark cartilage at 70 grams per day if you have cancer.

Folic Acid

Folic acid may reduce the risk of breast cancer, can help prevent the horrible birth defect called spina bifida and may also help prevent a deadly childhood cancer, called neuroblastoma, in which the child is born with tumor cells, according to Canadian researchers.
It’s been known for some time that women intending to become pregnant should take folic acid supplements and this research gives women even more reason to take them.

Soy

Eating soy may stop prostate cancer. One of the main molecules (called an isoflavone) found abundantly in soy beans stops the male hormone which stimulates prostate growth. Several studies have suggested that eating soy reduces the risk of prostate cancer and a great deal of research is underway on the benefits of soy in reducing the risk of other types of cancers including breast and colon.

Diet and Lifestyle . . . for Cancer Natural Treatment

• In terms of diet for both natural prevention and treatment of cancer, you should limit your diet to fresh food, organic if possible – nothing processed.

Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables which are high in antioxidants such as beta-carotene (vitamin A), and vitamin C and E. Tomatoes are particularly good as a cancer natural treatment food due to the lycopene they contain

• Cruciferous vegetables have excellent cancer-fighting properties. Research suggests that cruciferous vegetables contain phyto-chemicals which stimulate our bodies to break down potential carcinogens and work by preventing the transformation of normal health cells in to cancerous cells.
Cruciferous vegetables are linked to lower cancer risk (prostate, bladder, colon, liver, lung) and include: broccoli, cauliflower, brussel sprouts, kale

• Avoid fried foods, margarines, heated oils, burned animal fat and any other burned food (vegetable oil when heated and burned animal fat are basically carcinogenic).

• No alcohol and no cigarettes and no carbonated drinks. Research indicates that high acidity in your system provides a fertile ground for cancer cells to grow – we should strive to maintain an alkaline system.

• Drink eight glasses of water a day. Detoxify your system monthly by doing a liver flush.

• Protect yourself from strong sunlight

• Stay in tune with your body – monitor anything unusual – e.g. unusual lumps, ulcers, bleeding, extended diarrhoea, pain, change in urination or bowel habit, or moles that change in shape, colour, size. All of these factors can help prevent cancer.

Copyright http://www.Global-Longevity.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Paul_Newland

What are Liver Cancer Symptoms?
By P. Mehta

The liver is located just below the right lung and diaphragm. It is divided into right and left lobes. The liver receives blood from the heptic artery and the portal vein. The hepatic artery supplies the oxygen-rich blood, while the portal vein nutrient-rich blood from the intestines.

The liver secretes bile into the intestine to help absorb nutrients. The liver also helps in removing toxic wastes from our body.

Several types of tumors, cancerous and not cancerous can form in the liver. The liver cancer is seen in some parts of Asia and Africa and is rare in the USA. It occurs more frequently in males than females.

There are no early warning signs or symptoms of liver cancer. Some of the common symptoms of liver cancer are

Pain in the right upper abdominal area, abdominal fullness or bloating.
Weight Loss.
Breast swelling in males.
Loss of appetite.
Intestinal bleeding and
Blood clotting problems, bruises on the skin.
Weakness.

It should be noted that these symptoms may be due to other causes.

Copyright 2005, P. Mehta

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=P._Mehta

The Basics of Mutations
By Lisa Ginger

A cell can be compared to a city. Cities are bustling with activity. People, airplanes, cars, trains, etc... are coming and going to and from it. Structures are being built and others are being torn down. In a sense, proteins can be compared to the people within the city. The proteins cause all the commotion, they make things happen.

As described, all the proteins within a cell go back to that one segment (which we call the specific gene) of the DNA strand. The DNA orchestrates all the commotion caused by proteins similar to the way a conductor leads musicians at a symphony. If the conductor becomes sidetracked and makes a mistake, the harmony can be thrown off. If it is thrown off too much, the music can become chaotic and lose its rhythm.

Fortunately in most cases this doesn’t happen. Things run smoothly. And if the rhythm is lost it can usually be corrected.

Back in the molecular world things run the same. A cell can usually correct these subtle mistakes without causing a major catastrophe. However, it is remotely possible that a damaged piece of DNA can cause the cell to die. This will only happen if the damaged segment of DNA codes for a protein that is absolutely essential for the survival of the cell. If this happens, then that specific protein cannot be made. The job that protein performs cannot be completed. Just imagine, a damaged piece of DNA in the cell's nucleus can cause the entire cell to shut down.

Life is fragile, but fortunately not quite that fragile as you might expect. DNA gets damaged often. Luckily, there are cellular components (once again, special proteins) that can fix damaged spots on a piece of DNA. Since there are two strands of DNA these proteins can do a good job of repairing alterations.

When a mutation or alteration occurs on a piece of DNA, there are several different possibilities. The impacts of these possibilities range from minuscule to disastrous.

Possibility #1

The alteration can be fixed and everything continues just like normal.

Possibility #2

The damage occurs on a piece of DNA that isn’t ever used by that particular cell (remember, different cells perform different functions too). No single type of cell needs all the information contained within the vast amount of DNA that is present. Likewise, the mistake may not affect the production of the protein at all. Sometimes this occurs even when the mistake is contained within the sequence used to make the protein.

Possibility #3

The protein may either be damaged or not produced at all. This may cause the cell to function inappropriately - it can also lead to the cell's death. In the most disastrous scenario, the cell may become damaged, but still have the ability to divide, forming new, similarly dysfunctional cells just like it.

In most cases, an alteration to a single piece of DNA will not have any far-reaching affects on the cell. But, in instances where the alteration results in the production of a dysfunctional protein and the cell still divides, the alterations are passed onto later generations. This is where serious problems may come into play, even leading to cancer.

Scientists currently believe that several different alterations are responsible for a disaster of this magnitude to ever occur. Additionally, these mutations must probably arise in a special sequence. The odds of all this happening are low, but when it does happen the effects are certainly far-reaching and potentially devastating.

Lisa Ginger is a molecular biologist specializing in cancer research. Please review free cancer prevention articles written by knowledgeable scientists and doctors at Cancer Prevention Report -- Our health is our most precious asset.

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Nutrients: The Limiting Factor
By Lisa Ginger

There is a large body of evidence proving that all the cells within a tumor mass are derived from a single cell. Imagine; one damaged cell can lead to a life-threatening tumor. The magnitude of the true meaning behind this is difficult to grasp because it is an extremely shocking and frightening revelation.

Even though all the cells within a tumor mass may be derived from a single cell, this does not mean that all the cells in a tumor are genetically identical like you might expect. Tumor cells are more unstable than normal cells, meaning they mutate at a much higher rate and they repair themselves much less effectively. Therefore, the cells within a tumor are different even from one another.

Fortunately, the chain of events leading to a single cell becoming a cancerous tumor consisting of millions of its offspring is a rare event. Actually, it is not just a single event that causes this, but several events that must occur in a specific sequence.

First, a piece of the DNA strand must be significantly mutated (we will talk about how this might happen later) and the mutations must slip through the repair mechanisms. These mutations may take place over generations of cells. For example, one generation may have one mutation; the next may not have any. A subsequent generation may have another and so on, until the “cancer mutations” have occurred.

Due to these mutations, the cell must gain the ability to proliferate (divide rapidly) and thus lose its normal function. In a sense, the major purpose of the cell must be to divide.

There are probably only a limited number of alterations that will allow a cell to lose its functions and divide out of control. Some alterations affect nothing, others may cause a minor change that is not really threatening to the cell, and still others can outright kill the cell. So, to become cancerous, the cell must maintain its ability to divide without causing any damage to limit its ability to survive.

If a cell becomes bent on dividing, the cell will just continue dividing and crowd out other cells within the area. In some fortunate cases an individual’s own immune system may actually stop the growth of the tumor. The immune system may recognize that the cells within the tumor are not normal. If this happens, the immune cells will then have an easy time destroying the tumor. This may take place a number of times throughout an individual’s life without them ever being affected.

If a tumor goes unnoticed and begins to grow, a lack of nutrients can eventually limit its growth. If nutrients are not continuously supplied, the tumor cells cannot metabolize. In this case, at the very least, no new growth can occur. If a tumor becomes unable to grow and unable to support some of its functions and cell death occurs, the tumor may go into a dormant state. In this case it cannot spread. This is called carcinoma "in situ", which means "in place". Once the tumor reaches this limiting size, (which is no bigger than a pea), and if it is unable to get more nutrients, it will stay in this dormant state and may eventually die off.

Autopsies have shown that 40% of women in their 40’s have these tiny "in situ" tumors (not capable of spreading) in their breasts. Had some of these females lived longer, they might have developed breast cancer when they were older. However, many of these women would never develop cancer.

The tiny tumors would not have been able to get the necessary nutrients to grow any larger. A tumor in this situation cannot do any damage. It will usually just die off. An individual could actually have several of these stationary, "in situ" tumors and still live to a healthy, old age, completely unaffected by the tumors. Researchers are trying to develop tests that will determine whether an individual’s breast and prostate tumors will remain dormant or spread. In that way, patients in the future could be spared unnecessary treatments.

Our health is our most precious asset. Please review free cancer prevention articles at: Cancer Prevention Report

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lisa_Ginger

Normal Cells vs. Tumor Cells
By Lisa Ginger

Tumor cells vary from normal cells in several basic ways. First, the division of normal cells is tightly regulated by special cell signals. With tumor cells, it’s as if the signals are no longer produced or perhaps they are no longer received.

Research involving cells is often accomplished by removing the cells from an individual and growing them in a sterile dish with the nutrients required for their survival. Growing cells for research use is termed “cell culture”. Just by watching normal cells in cell culture it is obvious that their division is regulated by something. Normal cells in culture grow until the bottom of their dish is carpeted with the cell. The layer is only 1 cell thick. Once this density is reached, they stop dividing because there is no more space. If one cell dies, an adjacent one will divide to fill in the space. Additionally, normal cells will divide a certain number of times after which time, the division process halts. There are a certain pre-determined number of generations that may be produced and then there is no more dividing. Eventually, the entire culture will die.

With tumor cells, it’s a completely different story. Tumor cells will divide over and over, time after time; forever if supplied with nutrients. With enough time, tumor cells in culture will become a piled up mess. They lack order to their growth. It is as though tumor cells lose have lost the capacity to follow the rules and they divide (proliferate) out of control.

A second major difference between normal cells and tumor cells is that normal cells perform a special function or duty for the body. Healthy cells have specialized behaviors and serve a purpose. For example, lung cells have a specialized duty to perform while cells of cardiac tissue have a very different one. Normal cells taken from different tissues even have very different appearances. Tumor cells have a different appearance than normal cells taken from the tissue they are derived from. This is due to the fact that they have lost their specialized function.

Differentiation is the term given to describe the specialized function a given cell has. Differentiation and proliferation are closely tied together. In general, a cell that proliferates at a high rate loses some of its specialized function. The problem is, it really doesn't have time to perform a specific function since its too busy dividing. Cells that perform a highly specific function (i.e. differentiated) have a lower rate of proliferation. Researchers are studying the possibility of making tumor/cancer cells differentiated so they might lose their ability to proliferate continuously. In theory, this would cause the tumor to stop growing.

Our health is our most precious asset. Please review free cancer prevention articles at: Cancer Prevention Report

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lisa_Ginger

Is Erroneous Nutrition Advice Hurting Cancer Patients?
By Leni Kass

Does the standard medical approach that encourages cancer patients to eat whatever they want, especially diets rich in meat and dairy products, actually cause many cancer patients to feel worse? Could certain foods often recommended to cancer patients actually feed their malignancies?

The answer to these important questions is a resounding “yes,” according to cancer expert and researcher Keith I. Block, MD, Scientific/Medical Director of the Block Center for Integrative Cancer Care and Optimal Health in Evanston, Illinois. “Numerous studies published in peer reviewed medical journals over the past decade, including the Journal of Nutrition, the British Medical Journal and the Journal of Surgical Research have associated the saturated fats found in animal products, partially hydrogenated fats and omega-6 fatty acids with chronic inflammation,” says Dr. Block. “This can potentially contribute to cancer growth as well as the wasting syndrome known as cachexia.” Cachexia affects 8 out of 10 advanced cancer patients and can cause a massive (up to 80%) loss of both fatty tissue and skeletal muscle. In fact, it is often not a malignancy but cachexia that takes the lives of cancer patients. According to the National Cancer Institute cachexia is estimated to be the immediate cause of death in 20% to 40% of cancer patients. In addition to decreasing survival, cachexia also increases complications from all conventional treatments. Typical symptoms include weakness, fatigue, accelerated weight loss, anorexia and chronic nausea, as well as emotional distress and depression.

“Cachexia is not a case of cancer patients simply not eating enough or not feeling like taking nourishment,” says Dr. Block. “The current scientific consensus is that cancer cachexia results primarily from an underlying metabolic imbalance induced by the cancer which causes the body’s metabolism to speed up. This generates a chronic, low-grade inflammation and the breakdown of muscle and other lean tissues, as well as immune suppression. Unfortunately, general recommendations coming out of some cancer organizations encourage eating all you want of the typical American diet. The heavy consumption of fats, refined flours and sugars, can increase inflammation and contribute to more anorexia and debilitating weight loss.” The fallacy in this approach can be likened to trying to keep a leaky container full of liquid by adding more water to it. Solely adding water won’t keep the container full unless the underlying cause – the leak – is rectified. So when it comes to nutritional recommendations, simply consuming more food and calories with high calorie drinks and shakes is not a meaningful solution. More importantly addressing the underlying problem, inflammation, with inflammatory-fighting foods will better correct the underlying metabolic disorder. Then, improving caloric intake with healthy choices will provide a better potential for overcoming this common condition.

So what sort of diet can fight both cachexia as well as other causes of weight loss such as chemotherapy induced loss of appetite? Dr. Block recommends a diet replete with inflammation and cancer fighting phytochemicals, complex carbohydrates and specific, healthy fats and proteins, and individually tailored nutritional supplements; while simultaneously eliminating/reducing inflammatory foods, which may spur the growth of cancer, fuel cachexia and reduce treatment tolerance. Let’s look at these major offenders:

“Bad” dietary fats such omega 6, saturated, and trans fats

“Bad” carbohydrates such as high-glycemic foods

“Bad” cooking methods such as open flame or high-heat preparation techniques like charcoal-grilling and deep frying

To take charge of “bad” fats, one should first, keep total fat consumption under 20% of daily calories. Second, reduce or eliminate saturated fat found in milk, cheese, butter, red meat, pork, coconut, and poultry. Third, eliminate unnatural fat, called trans fat, found abundantly in margarine, hydrogenated oils, as well as many baked goods and convenience foods. And finally, strive for an optimal dietary balance of polyunsaturated fats (PUFAs) known as Omega-6’s and omega-3’s. Omega-6 fats (found in certain vegetable oils including corn oil, safflower and sunflower oil) are better reduced, while Omega-3 fats, commonly found in fish oil, as well as the monosaturated fats in olive oil, should be increased.

After taking charge of your fat consumption, one needs to look at the main source of caloric energy—carbohydrates. It turns out that high-glycemcic foods, ones that cause a sudden rise in blood sugar (even in non-diabetics) accelerate the formation of arachadonic acid, a product of omega-6 fatty acid metabolism. This is the main fuel supporting the inflammatory pathway and foods increasing this should be reduced or avoided. These foods include sugar, honey, high-fructose corn syrup, concentrated sweeteners, sugary beverages, cookies, cakes, pastries; white bread, crackers, and sugar-laden or white-flour baked goods.

“This is a scientifically sensible strategy that provides cancer patients with the calories they need from dietary sources that actually support, rather than thwart, their recovery,” says Dr. Block, who, for a quarter of a century, has lived by the unrelenting conviction that no cancer patient should be given up on ... there is always something more to try. “Even during chemotherapy, my clinical experience has shown that a grain, legume, fish and vegetable, fruit, nuts and seeds based diet with targeted ‘superfood’ supplementation is the optimal approach to combating cancer related anorexia and weight loss, and even cachexia.”

“It is time for those who treat cancer to put away the unhealthy ‘eat all you want’ myth and incorporate science-based nutrition strategies into their treatment plans for helping patients successfully fight cancer and improve their quality of life.”

Leni Kass has been in marketing and public relations for over 15 years. Previously, she worked with teens, and facilitated a therapy group for adolescents with eating disorders. She is cofounder and CEO of Hey U.G.L.Y., Inc. NFP, a 501c3 nonprofit organization that empowers teens with self-esteem building tools, to help them counter challenges such as eating disorders, bullying, violence, substance abuse and suicide. U.G.L.Y. is an acronym that stands for meaning Unique Gifted Lovable You.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Leni_Kass

Finding a Safer Alternative: Start Defusing Your Families 'Toxic Time-Bomb' Today!
By Ruth Ramos De Smith

The other day I saw an item where someone reasoned that a certain well known brand of petroleum jelly MUST be OK for you, because a woman they knew, who died in her 70’s, had used it all her life and had ‘great skin’ when she shuffled off this mortal coil!

Sadly, there will always be 'anecdotal' evidence that certain products seem to be harmless. We've probably all heard of the old guy who died at 90 after smoking 40 Capstan full-strength cigarettes every day since he was 15 - although no-one now doubts that cigarette smoking is harmful to your health. So it will be that many people know of folks who have used products like petroleum jelly regularly throughout their lives – and seem to have been unaffected.

The thing that people often don't realize is that there is now overwhelming evidence that products derived from petro-chemicals (like petroleum jelly - of course) are toxic to humans. Such toxicity may emerge in the form of increased skin sensitivity, perhaps in the triggering of allergies - which can start at any time and any age - or maybe even in the development of one or other form of cancer.

In the UK (and US) currently the chances of you suffering some type of cancer during your life-time is now 1 in 3!!! In some places the statistics are even worse - in Singapore it is an incredible 1 in 2 for instance! this is one ‘lottery’ that no-one wants to win! But what can you do to stop yourself becoming a ‘statistic’ and a hostage to the ‘toxic time-bomb’ that is already ticking inside all of us alive today (unless we’ve lived our lives in a hermetically sealed bubble :-D)!

The worst aspect of continuing to use proven toxic materials regularly on the skin is that it may not be YOU (the user) who suffers...but your children, or your children's children...or even later down the generations. Animal studies have shown that exposure to toxic substances affected offspring FIVE generations down the line.

We as humans have only seen about two generations (2 x 25 = 50 years) pass since the introduction of some 80,000 man-made, non-natural chemicals into our lives. This number increases inexorably every year. Such chemicals permeate products that we come intimately into contact with daily...and we have often been led to believe these products are doing us some 'good'!

Take toothpaste for example...we all know about ‘brushing our teeth to avoid tooth decay’...but how many people realize that there are KNOWN harmful irritants in almost all ‘well known’ brands of dentifrice? Why not check the paste you use now and see if it contains Sodium Laureth (or Lauryl) Sulfate, for instance - It might make your toothpaste nice and foamy...But what else could this known irritant be doing to your body?!(Recent concerns about rocketing mouth cancer statistics have to make you wonder about this relatively recent development, don’t they?.)

We can only guess the long term effects of this ‘ticking time-bomb’ of chemical burden that our bodies are having to bear...especially as most of us will be long-gone before the results really appear as mutations in our gene-pool. It is our children's, children's, children who are likely to ‘pick-up-the-tab’ for us having 'great teeth' and 'wonderful looking skin' until our 70's...

The only answer is to seek out safe natural products. There are marvellous natural substances that have been used for 1000's of years - and that we know are definitely beneficial to the skin and body. Unfortunately, we cannot always be sure of the 'provenance' of some products that claim to be 'natural'. Manufacturers also 'confuse' the consumer by using man-made versions of natural substances that often have very similar names! There is no need for them to make it clear about whether ingredients used in cosmetics and bodycare products are from natural or 'un-natural' sources!

Don't be fooled by the fact that you have used something for years and aren't ill yet! You need to get petro-chemicals OUT of your life now...in fact get all non-natural chemicals and products out of your life if you can...because it may not be yourself you are harming. You could already be unwittingly becoming a 'suicide bomber' who will 'wipe-out' the health of future generations of your own family!

If you can, the best thing that you can do is find a source of genuine, certified organic and natural skin products and be sure to use these and only these products, from now on...Then, ensure your kids (and their kids) do the same. In fact do your best to encourage anyone you care about to change the products they use on their bodies – soaps, shampoos, body creams, face creams, hand creams, cosmetics, after-shave...etc. etc. as soon as possible.

It is up to each and every one of us to stop adding to the toxic overload on our own system. We are all individuals and no-one knows just what ‘load’ will be ‘enough’ to trigger a life-threatening condition. All you can do is to start reducing your bodies man-made chemical burden as soon as possible. A good way to start is to "go certified organic"! If you are a parent, or ever likely to be one – it could save more than just your own life!

We all have the power to reclaim and improve our health. Some of us have the responsibility to educate others – especially our children. Ignorance is no defence - and no excuse for failing in this responsibility. The terrible ODDS are that within a family of two parents and one child, at least one will suffer from cancer before they die – So, stop making your family enter the ‘cancer lottery’ now, and choose to 'defuse' your 'toxic time-bomb' today.

[Article may only be reproduced in entirety including Author's bio./resource box and any links intact - Ruth Ramos de Smith (2005)- www.toxictimebomb.blogspot.com]

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Cancer And Weight Gain
By Kim Beardsmore

We hear it all the time…lose weight for your health. Few people however, realize the extent to which this is critical to their physical well-being and ultimately their life expectancy.

In January 2003, the Journal of the American Medical Association featured a study finding that obesity appears to lessen life expectancy, especially among young adults. The researchers compared Body-Mass Index (BMI) to longevity and found a correlation between premature death and higher BMIs. For example, a 20-year-old white male, 5’10” weighing 288 pounds with a BMI of greater than 40 was estimated to lose 13 years of his life as a result of obesity.

Jamie McManus, M.D., F.A.A.F.P. and author of “Your Personal Guide to Wellness” notes that while this study referenced extreme levels of obesity, there are still millions of overweight people in developed countries with a life expectancy rate that is three to five years less than their healthy-weight counterparts. Australia is following the US trends where an alarming 600,000 obesity related deaths occur each year.

Just how does obesity shorten our lifespan? The answer to this question is complex, yet there is a clear link between obesity and the development of cancer. An extensive study conducted by the American Cancer Institute involving 750,000 people showed that obesity significantly increased the risk of cancer developing in the following organs: breast, colon, ovaries, uterus, pancreas, kidneys and gallbladder.

Michael Thun, MD, vice-president of epidemiology and surveillance research for the American Cancer Society (ACS) says one reason obesity may raise cancer risk is because fat cells produce a form of estrogen called estradiol that promotes rapid division of cells, increasing chances of a random genetic error while cells are replicating, which can lead to cancer. In addition, fat centered around the abdomen may increase insulin and insulin-like growth factors in the blood, which may increase cancer risk.
"Women who are obese after menopause have a 50% higher relative risk of breast cancer," notes Thun, "and obese men have a 40% higher relative risk of colon cancer…. Gallbladder and endometrial cancer risks are five times higher for obese individuals”.

There is evidence that cancer rates in developed countries are increasing at 5 to 15 times faster than developing countries. A major contributor to this alarming reality has proven to be diet. In populations where the diet consists mostly of fresh fruit and vegetables and whole grains – in contrast to the typical Western diet of fatty meats, refined flours, oils and sugars – the risk of cancer is much lower.

The interaction of diet and the development of cancer is an active field of research and Dr David Heber, M.D., Ph.D. and author of “What Color is Your Diet”, says “It appears that diet has its most significant effects after the cancer has already formed, acting to inhibit or stimulate the growth of that cancer”. At the risk of oversimplifying a complex set of interactions, the typical Western diet that leads to obesity may actually act to stimulate the growth of cancer cells.

It is never too late to improve your health through healthful eating and adopting a more health-giving lifestyle.

Kim Beardsmore M.B.A. (H.R.M.), B.Sc. (Biochemistry) is an independent Herbalife distributor, weight loss coach and creator of the online health & fitness magazine Weight Loss Health. For a free weight loss consultation, newsletter and resources to help you lose weight and keep it off forever, visit http://weight-loss-health.com.au Your online Herbalife store at http://weightlosshealth.herbalcoach.com Herbalife business opportunity: http://free2liv.com

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Encouraging Tips when CANCER is the Diagnosis
By Joe Leech

Mind Saving Tips When Cancer is the Diagnosis

This scares me to death and a CANCER diagnosis or even the “word” scares nearly every one of us. While this article is not meant do diminish the dangers of this disease by any stretch, this is also to encourage those who either find themselves facing the cancer diagnosis or simply knowing someone who does, and finding the need to be better informed.

The facts about Cancer are that in early years, it was much more fatal than it is today in 2005. The fact is that Cancer has shown it can be cured, and this is happening every day, and the chances for cure are very closely related to the detection stage...The earlier it is detected, the better the chance of cure.

Before proceeding with the article however, the reader should be aware that the term or word “Cancer” is really a catch all for many different diseases or forms of the disease, and depending upon the organ of the body effected, the cause and cure can vary significantly.

We’d like to discuss all of these, but volumes have been written by experts, and to only summarize those writings would take years to put in one place.

But now the good news.. Cancer is nowhere near as fatal as it once was, nor is it an automatic death sentence.

We’d like to make this a meaningful article by emphasizing just a couple of key points: There is a highly linked cause and effect between some causes and some Cancer forms. The most obvious is Smoking and Lung Cancer. This could be followed by the introduction of other foreign subjects into a person’s lungs. Things such as asbestos particles. The point is that by trending toward a more healthy life style the risks of contracting certain cancers can be reduced.

The other key point is that there are really TWO treatment paths: One in general is the conventional medical treatments of chemo, radiation, and surgery. Dear Reader, this is big business with major financial interests, and many who say that those interests in fact take precedence over cure results.

The other treatment path is unconventional or Alternative Treatments. This can begin with maintaining an alkaline pH of the body. Many, many, many alternative treatments are indeed “quackery” and also motivated by money.. but there are also alternative treatments which have cure track records. Are these coincidental? Some researchers claim direct cause-effect relationships, and many of these alternatives offer far fewer side effects than “cut-burn- poison” conventional approaches.

Each person with a serious interest in the subject should be certain to study BOTH approaches, and the time to do so is before the medical crisis begins. Fortunately, research on both approaches is now widely available due to the Internet, and this should be taken advantage of.

Joe Leech is an average person whose family has faced cancer issues. He has done considerable research and this web site shares many of his resources and links. Get all the information you need for peace of mind at http://cancerinfo.ouronlinebusiness.com

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Cancer: A Modern Day Scourge
By Dr. Mary Rodio

Cancer - known largely as a disease of our modern establishment - ravages our bodies, our minds, and our spirits indiscriminately. It could prey upon anyone.

Why has this horror become a part of our everyday conversation? Why has it affected so many? What can we do about it? Within the confines of this article, I will address these questions.

At any meeting place - restaurants, stores, golf courses, offices, malls – people exchange woeful tales of Cancer's attack upon friends, relatives, neighbors, or other loved ones fallen victim to this evil.

Cancer Rates Have Tripled Since 1900

Cancer is not necessary, but education of the origin of this malignancy is. According to the American Cancer Society,
Forty-one thousand (41,000) Americans (64 people per 100,000) died of cancer in 1900. This figure equates to more than 112 people per day.

According to the Center of Disease Control and Prevention: "In 2005, an estimated 570,280 Americans—more than 1,500 people a day—will die of cancer." This figure equates to nearly 200 people per 100,000.

Comparing the statistics in the previous two paragraphs, we can see that cancer deaths per 100,000 have more than tripled since 1900. Previously, I suggested that cancer is a disease of our modern establishment. At the beginning of this century there were relatively few cases of cancer. In the 1800's and previous to then, it was even less prevalent.

Why have cancer deaths sky-rocketed? If we fear this killer, then we should know what lures it to us. Most people feel that they have no control over developing this disease. This isn't so. With knowledge and strong resolve, we can beat back our fear and focus on increasing our immunity to cancer.

Simple, Unrefined Food is Necessary for Cancer Prevention

Let's consider the similarities of 19th century America and countries where cancer is practically non-existent. For the most part, the only countries that have a low incidence of cancer are those countries where the environment is largely unspoiled and where the food is simple and unrefined. These countries are generally agricultural nations where highly processed food is uncommon.

Nearly a century ago – before the arrival of chemical fertilizers – farming in America was organic. Apart from the industrial centers, the environment was relatively pristine. I interpret these Cancer statistics to point to the subsequent arrival of a chemically toxic environment, over-processed foods, and stress as cancer's root cause.

To better understand the possible root causes of cancer, you should know that cancer is considered an acid disease that may be generated by an over consumption of acid foods: usually meat, dairy products, and coffee.

Toxic food substances, tobacco, environmental poisons and other potential hazards may also contribute to the possibility of developing cancer. In each decade since the early 1900's, we have seen an astronomical increase in the use of harmful additives, colorings, irradiation, insecticides, fungicides, and the list could go on indefinitely, as you may well know.

Conclusion

By asking ourselves how we can avoid being a Cancer statistic, we need to do what is in our power to do.

We can avoid toxic food substances by not ingesting them. We can also abstain from tobacco and other known carcinogens. It is far more difficult to avoid contact with environmental poisons since they surround us. We don’t want to contribute to these poisons; therefore, we ought to use environmentally friendly products.

When we join with like-minded others, we can influence legislation by supporting political candidates who pledge themselves to environmental stances.

© 1997-2005 by Mary L. Rodio, Ph.D.

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Cancer Diet - Include Natural Foods
By Marilyn Bennett

In any cancer diet, there are many factors to be considered. One is that it is ideal that we get our nutrients from our foods, and that those foods are in as near their natural state as possible. By that I mean foods that have minimum processing.

The reason for this is that no matter how clever our scientists are there is still much they have not discovered about the way vitamins and the body interact. Every day we hear they have found either a new nutrient or another factor in how our bodies assimilate nutrients. If we eat foods that are as close to the state nature produces them we are most likely to get the nutrients we need together with all the other factors our bodies need to use them. This is crucial to any cancer diet.

A shining example is iron. Our bodies need Vitamin C in order to assimilate iron. However, there are still iron supplements on the market that do not have Vitamin C included in their mix. Now, parsley is a very rich source of iron and, you guessed it, is also full of Vitamin C. To further complicate matters, Vitamin C is heat affected and water soluble, so cooking, particularly in liquids destroys it - hence my assertion that eating foods - in this case parsley - in their natural state is best. Of course this won't work for all foods - potatoes for example - but it is a good strategy to keep in mind when trying to maximize nutrition.

The other reason for eating foods in as near natural state as possible, is that cooking destroys the natural enzymes. Enzymes not only play a crucial role in digestion, and therefore influence the quality of the nutrients we get from our food, but some enzymes, particularly pancreatic enzymes, play a direct role in the fight against cancer.
So how do we include raw foods when designing a cancer diet?
The obvious answer is salads. Using as wide a variety of salad vegetables and incorporating as many different coloured salad veggies, is an excellent way to increase your intake of live enzymes.

But even with hot meals, many raw veggies can be added as a garnish. Eg parsley chopped up over scrambled eggs. Herbs stirred in a casserole after the heat is turned off. A couple of rings of capsicum on top of cooked fish. Use fruits to dress up a steak or a roast. Let your imagination go! Look for colour and variety and you will easily find dozens of ways to include raw foods.

Snacks are another way of getting raw veggies into the diet. Cut up celery and carrots into one inch/2cm lengths. Even broccoli and cauliflower are nice and crunchy as a snack. If you must dip them in something try a little cottage cheese rather than a fat laden dip!

By keeping your mind open and imagination engaged, you will soon be getting many more raw foods into your daily diet, giving yourself and your loved ones an edge in the cancer fighting stakes.

Marilyn’s partner Glenn was declared cancer-free after 11 months using a nutritional approach. She spent many hours researching an alternative to the barbaric surgery offered as Glenn’s only hope. He never did have the surgery. They are now on a mission to "spread the word" about the many things they discovered we can all do to fight cancer. For more crucial, potentially lifesaving information please visit http://www.cancer-einfo.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marilyn_Bennett

Cancer-35 Percent of Deaths Caused by 9 Modifiable Risk Factors
By Valerian D.

According to World Bank statistics, in 2001 year were registered about seven million deaths worldwide from cancer. This is a high amount of men and women. But the big concern is that 35 percent from deaths were attributable to the only nine behavioral and environmental risk factors, with alcohol and smoking playing large roles. That means more than one in every three of the seven million deaths from cancer worldwide was caused by nine risk factors that people can easily eliminate from their habits.

The above nine modifiable risk factors were:

Smoking.

Smoking alone is estimated to have caused 21 percent of deaths from cancer worldwide.
Alcohol use.

Mouth cancer caused by alcohol use killed more people in the UK than cervical cancer and testicular cancer put together. When tobacco and alcohol use are combined, the risk of oral cancer increases 15 times. Alcohol is also a primary cause of liver cancer.
Overweight and obesity.

One in 10 cancers affecting non-smokers is caused by the sufferer being overweight.
Low fruit and vegetable intake.

It has been estimated that about 25,000 different chemical compounds occur in vegetables and fruits. Studies show that more than 500 of these compounds are potential modifiers of the cancer process.
Physical inactivity.

Physical inactivity is strongly linked to colorectal cancer, as well as to a important number of dietary risk factors.
Unsafe sex.

Sexual transmission of human papilloma virus is the leading risk factor for cervical cancer in women.
Urban air pollution.

In France, urban air pollution, most of it caused by cars, buses and trucks, kills more than 5,000 people every year.
Indoor smoke from household use of coal.

It is stated that a pollutant released indoors is many times more likely to reach the lung than that released outdoors.
Contaminated injections in healthcare settings, like unsafe blood transfusions.

These conclusions clearly show that very important types of cancer are preventable by changes in lifestyle behaviors and environmental interventions.

Valerian D is a freelance writer specialized in health issues like cancer risk factors

Cancer Diet - Minerals
By Marilyn Bennett

A cancer diet needs a good balance of minerals because minerals are needed by all cells for proper function. Patients are often found to be mineral deficient, so this is an area of the diet that needs particular attention.

There are two classes of minerals. Macrominerals, such as the well known calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium and phosphorus, and microminerals, such as boron, chromium, copper, iron, iodine, germanium, sulfur, silicon, vanadium, zinc, manganese and molybdenum.

The good news is we will get most of the minerals we need, provided we are eating a diet based on a wide variety of fruits and veggies, with the addition of nuts, seeds and grains.

Where we can get in to trouble is that minerals are washed out of soils with constant rain, and modern fertilizers don't usually contain the wide variety of minerals we need. Organic gardeners usually use rock minerals on their soils and this results in organic produce have a much higher and broader range of minerals.

Germanium is one micromineral that cancer patients are often low on. It is essential for immune function and is critical to tissue oxygenation. Cancer grows rapidly where there is low oxygenation of cells. Germanium is found in broccoli, celery, garlic, onions, rhubarb, sauerkraut and tomato juice as well as aloevera and ginseng.

Iodine deficiency has been linked to breast cancer in more than one study. Seasalt contains iodine and a variety of minerals rather than the isolated highly processed iodine additive in table salt. Asparagus, garlic, lima beans, soybeans, sesame seeds all contain natural iodine along with the nutrients needed for good absorption.

Large amounts of brassicas eg brussels sprouts, cabbage and cauliflower, along with peaches, pears and spinach can block absorption of iodine, so ensure there is a balance of iodine rich foods in your diet.

Selenium has been linked to cancer. Selenium and Vitamin E work together to attack free radicals. Selenium is critical for pancreatic function, and pancreatic enzymes are critical to the bodies ability to fight tumour activity. This mineral is generally found in meat and grains, however countries such as New Zealand and much of America is known to have selenium deficient soils.

As there have been several studies showing that good selenium levels have significantly reduced the risk of cancer, this is one mineral you want to have enough of.

Food sources that should be included frequently in a cancer diet are: brazil nuts, broccoli, brown rice, brewers yeast, chicken, kelp, onions, salmon, seafood, tuna, wheatgerm and whole grains. Garlic, chamomile, ginseng and parsley are all easy to use concentrated forms that can be added to the diet daily.

A couple of warnings:

Be very careful about self-dosing with minerals as several of them will block absorption of others if the dose is too high.

Again, eating a variety of foods, with particular notice taken of those that have high mineral levels is the safest way to go. If you wish to explore mineral supplementation further, talk to your naturopath or nutritionist. But whatever you do, don't ignore the importance of these vital elements to your well being.

Marilyn’s partner Glenn was declared cancer-free after 11 months using a nutritional approach. She spent many hours researching an alternative to the barbaric surgery offered as Glenn’s only hope. He never did have the surgery. They are now on a mission to "spread the word" about the many things they discovered we can all do to fight cancer. For more crucial, potentially lifesaving information please visit http://www.cancer-einfo.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Marilyn_Bennett

How Sweet It Isn't: Cancer Expert Keith Block, MD, Advises Avoiding Artificial Sweetener Aspartame
By Leni Kass

Health concerns are mounting about aspartame, the artificial sweetener consumed by more than 350 million people worldwide. Data from a long term, large scale animal study released by scientists from the Ramazzini Foundation for Cancer Research in Bologna, Italy, strongly link the chemical additive to cancer. This research has prompted the European Food Safety Authority to announce the group will review the research "as a matter of high priority, in the context of previous extensive safety data available on aspartame."

In the U.S., the New Mexico Environmental Improvement Board is considering whether it has statutory authority to ban aspartame in the state due to worries the sweetener could be contributing to citizens’ health problems. In addition, Christine Lydon, MD, a consultant for several of the world’s largest sports nutrition companies who has recommended aspartame-containing products to clients for years, has written an article published in the October edition of Oxygen magazine in which she says a review of the scientific research on the substance has convinced her aspartame is a health hazard. “I sat down with a pile of literature two inches thick. After making it through the first 10 pages, I stormed into my kitchen and fed every item of food containing aspartame to the garbage,” she writes in the magazine article. “Since that time, I have not had so much as a stick of aspartame sweetened gum.”

First declared safe and approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1981 for use in powdered mixes and tabletop sweeteners, by 1996 aspartame was approved for use in all foods and beverages. However, Ralph Walton, MD, a psychiatry professor at Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine, analyzed the research. He documented that all of the research showing no health risks had aspartame industry-linked sponsorship. On the other hand, 92% of the independent, non-aspartame industry sponsored studies identified one or more problems with aspartame. “That’s a glaring disparity,” notes Keith I. Block, MD, one of the nation’s leading cancer specialists, who is editor-in-chief of the peer-reviewed journal Integrative Cancer Therapies. Dr. Block says he has been troubled for years by the possibility the sugar substitute may, in fact, be anything but a healthy dietary choice. He is particularly concerned about the possibility aspartame might be a carcinogen. The Ramazzini Foundation’s study concluded aspartame caused cancer of the kidney and peripheral nerves, mainly in the head. Earlier data from the same study published in July showed aspartame in doses closely equivalent to the acceptable daily intake for women caused an increased risk for leukemia and lymphomas in female lab rats.

In addition to concerns about a possible aspartame/cancer link, Dr. Block, Medical/Scientific Director of the Block Center for Integrative Cancer Care and Optimal Health in Evanston, Illinois, and a Clinical Professor, Department of Medical Education, at the University of Illinois College of Medicine at Chicago (UIC), and at the Department of Pharmacology, and his colleagues believe the sweetener may produce a host of distressing symptoms in some people. “Women in particular have reported neurotoxic reactions to aspartame and we have observed that skin reactions and gastrointestinal symptoms often disappear in patients who stop consuming aspartame-containing products.”

Dr. Block also explains that phenylalanine and aspartic acid, the amino acid components of aspartame, are known to stimulate insulin release – which could actually sabotage a dieter’s effort to lose weight. “ In addition, high insulin levels tend to amplify the adverse effects of some other growth factors that could ultimately fuel the growth and spread of cancers such as colorectal cancer, prostate cancer and breast cancer,” he notes. “I think such theoretical links should at least warrant considering cutting back or eliminating aspartame containing foods in the diet."

What sweetener does Dr. Block recommend? “There are a variety of natural grain and plant-derived sweeteners that do not cause a big spike in blood sugar. nd fruit can often satisfy a ‘sweet tooth’ while providing many health benefits,” he answers. “I also recommend eating smaller meals throughout the day, and eating foods that have a low-glycemic index, such as corn, peas, and black beans. The body requires more time to break down and absorb these foods, and this leads to a more gradual and moderate rise in blood glucose levels. Much research suggests that this kind of dietary strategy will result in better health and greater longevity – and it is a far healthier way to eat than relying on artificial sweeteners.”

Leni Kass has been in marketing and public relations for over 15 years. Previously, she worked with teens, and facilitated a therapy group for adolescents with eating disorders. She is cofounder and CEO of Hey U.G.L.Y., Inc. NFP, a 501c3 nonprofit organization that empowers teens with self-esteem building tools, to help them counter challenges such as eating disorders, bullying, violence, substance abuse and suicide. U.G.L.Y. is an acronym that stands for meaning Unique Gifted Lovable You.

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New Findings on the Natural Prevention of Cancer
By Dr Wei Feng

The structure molecular of teas is now ever more so being studied by numerous scientists in the world. The use of teas in medicine, although a long tradition in Asia, is still a new field in the West.

Here are some of the most recent findings on the Green Tea potent substance Polyphenol, and new effect against cancer,

According to the Reuters Press Agency, Spanish and British scientist discovered a new secret of green tea preventing cancer. Researchers of the Spanish Murcia University and British Innes Centre discovered that in the green teas there is a kind of green tea polyphenol (EGCG), it can prevent the cancer cell unify with DHFR in growth.

Professor Thornley of Innes Centre said that , they had first discovered that the green tea polyphenol could prevent DHFR; this kind of enzyme is the goal matter for anti cancer drug.

Green tea polyphenol has in green teas (only when in its natural form) five times then the other types of teas. It is now a scientific fact that Green teas can indeed reduce the occurrence of certain types of cancer. Professor Thornley said that the polyphenol in green teas has the same molecular structure of the cancer drug, Methotrexate.

DHFR, is both crucial for the healthy cell and the cancer cell, green tea polyphenol has a very effective result to restrain DHFR.

I do recommend everyone with Cancer family history to have between three to five cups a day. Please avoid the use after night hours.

Dr Wei Feng
In Nature
www.in-nature.com

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Is Cancer Research Being True to the Legacy of Terry Fox?
By Rick Hendershot

Every year in September millions of Canadians pay special tribute to a very special young man named Terry Fox. Terry was the young Canadian who after having his leg amputated because of cancer decided he would run across Canada to raise money for cancer research. That run took place in the spring and summer of 1980 and was known as the "Marathon of Hope".

After 142 days of running 26 miles a day (a marathon a day), and after 3339 miles, Terry was forced to end his run near the city of Thunder Bay, Ontario on September 1, 1980. His cancer had returned, and this time it was in his lungs.

Several months later while still just 22 years old Terry succumbed to cancer.

Running for "Cancer Research"

The initial objective of the Marathon of Hope was to raise roughly 25 millions dollars -- one dollar for every Canadian at that time. Terry's goal was actually met before he died, due to donations and pledges made during his run and during a telethon held shortly after he was forced to end his run.

In that short spring and summer of 1980 Terry had become one of Canada's most important and inspirational heroes, and the legacy of the "Marathon of Hope" has lived on for 25 years, increasing in its appeal and scope every year.

The annual "Terry Fox Run" continues to be held annually across Canada, the US, and other countries around the world. According to current sources, the Terry Fox Run has now raised more than $400 million for cancer research.

Are we further ahead after $400 million?

For Canadians Terry Fox is the ultimate hero, and this makes it sacreligious to even suggest that all is not well with the Marathon of Hope and the "cancer research" that it fuels.

Nevertheless I suspect Terry himself would be surprised that we are not further along the road to a "cure for cancer" after raising and devoting such an amazingly large amount of money to that cause.

The amounts of money raised in the US and other countries are even more staggering, and in spite of very few tangible results to show for the "research" that is carried on, people continue to shell out money because they have been told, and continue to believe that a cure is "right around the corner."

Is it possible that the cancer research industry may have become a cushy gravy train for the thousands of fund raisers and researchers who make their living this way?

Some critics have even suggested that the "cancer industry" has become little more than an arm of the pharmaceutical and chemical industries? (For an interesting article that offers a critical analysis of the America Cancer Society, go to American Cancer Society: The World's Wealthiest "Nonprofit" Institution.

Legitimate questions we should be asking

At the very minimum it seems a perfectly legitimate question to ask "How much 'cure' has all this money bought us?"

I don't know. But I suspect it is not a lot. I may be hopelessly behind the times, but it seems to me that most of the "cures" being practised these days are pretty much like the ones that were being used back in 1980 -- surgery, chemo-therapy, and radiation.

Of course we are told that cancer cure rates have substantially improved. But these statistics are easily manipulated, and advocates of continuing the current research regime have such a vested interest in pointing to their success that their claims have to be met with at least mild scepticism.

One source that confirms this scepticism is this quote from a 1998 article called "Cancer Research -- a Super Fraud?". Commenting on the US National Cancer Program Dr.John Bailer said,

"My overall assessment is that the national cancer programme must be judged a qualified failure" Dr. John Bailer, who spent 20 years on the staff of the U.S. National Cancer Institute and was editor of its journal. Dr. Bailer also says: "The five year survival statistics of the American Cancer Society are very misleading. They now count things that are not cancer, and, because we are able to diagnose at an earlier stage of the disease, patients falsely appear to live longer. Our whole cancer research in the past 20 years has been a total failure. More people over 30 are dying from cancer than ever before... More women with mild or
benign diseases are being included in statistics and reported as being 'cured'. When government officials point to survival figures and say they are winning the war against cancer they are using those survival rates improperly."

Disrepectful?

To many people comments like this sound like an insult to the millions who have put their hope in a high tech cure for cancer. And many are afraid to question the status quo because of the respect we have for people like Terry Fox.

But I wonder if a 22 year old with the innocence and courage to take on the impossible task of running 5,000 miles on one leg would be happy with the way things are today.

Would Terry Fox be happy to see that some cancer society branches in the US devote only about 10% of the funds they raise to the actual delivery of cancer services? Would he understand why substantial portions of cancer society budgets go for the purchase of real estate and buildings rather than actually helping cancer victims and doing research into the causes of cancer?

Would he be pleased to learn that the boards of the major cancer organizations are filled with executives with ties to drug and chemical companies?

Would he take comfort in the fact that the well-known environmental causes of cancer are virtually ignored by researchers because these so often implicate food, chemical and drug companies?

Would he be glad that the efforts of researchers and fund raisers might actually be standing in the way of real progress in the fight against cancer because these researchers are so often in the employ of the very corporations that profit from the sale of cancer causing products?

Back in 1980 when Terry was running through Ontario he was asked by a passerby if he thought he was being used. "I want them to use me more." was Terry's reply.

Somehow I don't think the current state of affairs is quite what he had in mind.

Rick Hendershot is a writer and online publisher of The Linknet Publishing Network.

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Cancer Diet- The Role of Fibre
By Marilyn Bennett

This article in the series on Cancer Diet explores the importance of fibre.

Fibre's role in the body is to assist in the timely expulsion of waste matter from the bowel. If this waste matter stays put for too long, the body starts to reabsorb the antigens and toxins from the bowel bacteria through the gut wall.

One of the easiest ways to tell if you are getting enough fibre is to inspect your stools. Sounds most unsavoury, I know, but all you need to do is see whether they float or sink in the toilet. If they are floating you are getting enough fibre, if they sink you are not.

The reason a good cancer diet will address the need for good elimination is that as the body fights the cancer it produces even more waste matter. This puts a very heavy load on the elimination systems. If the bowels are clogged up as well, then the body struggles under a highly toxic load. This in turn takes much needed resources away from healing functions. Of course, if the patient is also having chemotherapy treatment, good elimination is even more crucial.

In a well managed cancer diet, there will already be a good proportion of raw foods, particularly fruits and vegetables. These raw foods are one of the best sources of natural dietary fibre.

Other much touted remedies such as psyllium husks can be very helpful, but it is preferable to get your fibre directly from your foods, which also contain other elements such as enzymes that help digestion.

Water is also absolutely critical for good bowel function, assisting in the flushing of the bulk material and the toxins that accumulate there. Absolutely no point in upping the fibre content then depriving the body of water so that it all becomes a big plug!

Many medications can cause constipation so be on the lookout for this side effect when starting any new ones. Also high levels of calcium and low thyroid hormones can play havoc, so if you continue having constipation after increasing your fibre and water content, make a beeline for your doctor. Constipation has far too many negative side-effects to allow it to continue too long.

Just a quick PS - every cancer diet should include pears, as they are full of fibre, water and highly nutritious to boot. If you are constipated, a full ripe pear on an empty stomach first thing in the morning followed by a glass of water has a very good chance of doing the trick!

Marilyn’s partner Glenn was declared cancer-free after 11 months using a nutritional approach. She spent many hours researching an alternative to the barbaric surgery offered as Glenn’s only hope. He never did have the surgery. They are now on a mission to "spread the word" about the many things they discovered we can all do to fight cancer. For more crucial, potentially lifesaving information please visit http://www.cancer-einfo.com

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On Wedneday, my father's battle with cancer ended. In his final weeks and days, he was in much pain. He passed peacefully, the pain gone, surrounded by his family. His pain has ended and he is resting peacefully. We all miss him very much. For more information, visit the memorial web site for Ted Carey.

Cancer and Autoimmunity are Intertwined
By Heidi Whitaker

Both cancer and autoimmune disease are a failure of the immune system to function properly. What you may not realize is that they are actually two manifestations of the same problem. In this sense, they have the same cause. Contrary to popular belief, the cause of this failure in the immune system is no great mystery. In fact, it is a problem that we have created by modern living.

The immune system, like most of the body, requires balance to function properly. T-helper 1 (Th1) cells and T-helper 2 cells (Th2) help regulate the body’s response to foreign invaders. Th1 uses white blood cells to go after viruses and cancer cells. Th2 immune cells use antibodies to go after bacteria. Normally, the body strikes a balance by switching back and forth between Th1 and Th2. In a person with an autoimmune disorder, one dominates and suppresses the other. Trans fats, mercury and other heavy metals, sugar and processed foods, alcohol, lack of sleep, lack of exercise, and stress are part of a modern lifestyle that can disrupt the Th1/Th2 balance.

Th1 dominance in women is associated with autoimmunity and recurrent miscarriage in the first trimester of pregnancy. Additionally, children in the autism spectrum tend to be Th1 dominant. Besides autoimmunity, Th2 dominance is characterized by a tendency toward allergies, frequent colds and viral infections, and cancer.

Heidi Whitaker is an author and popular speaker on the topic of nutritional support of autoimmune disease. An advocate for alternative health solutions, she co-founded http://www.healthydivas.com, a resource center for those autoimmune sufferers looking for real answers outside of what conventional medicine can provide.

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Cancer Diet - The Important Vitamins
By Marilyn Bennett

A cancer diet needs particular emphasis on the following vitamins.

Vitamin A

Role: as an anti-oxidant and important for healing.

Natural sources: green and yellow fruits and vegetables, organic animal liver but be careful, a non-organically raised animal's liver could be full of chemicals!

Beta-carotene - very important in a cancer diet - from carrots in particular, is converted to Vitamin A by the liver, and is a far safer way to get a really good boost of this vitamin, with no dangers of overdosing.

Vitamin B Complex

Role: particularly important to the health of nerves and the production of energy.

Natural sources are chicken, eggs, brewer's yeast, whole grains, leafy green vegetables, fish.

Vitamin B17 - almost unheard of, but critical in a cancer diet.

B17 interacts with the very large amounts of beta-glucosidase in cancer cells to produce hydrogen cyanide and benzaldehyde. These two poisons combine into an extremely deadly poison that targets cancer cells. The reason that it doesn't target healthy cells is that although they have small quantities of beta-glucosidase, they also contain rodonase, a substance that cancer cells do not have, that breaks the poison down into compounds that actually assist the bodies immune system!

Natural sources are flaxseed oil, brown rice, brewer's yeast, lentils, macadamia nuts, pecans, raspberries, strawberries, walnuts, watercress and yams.

Vitamin C

Role: Antioxidant needed to assist over 300 metabolic functions of the body.

Natural sources are citrus fruits, most yellow or red fruits and vegetables, leafy green vegetables.

The body cannot store this very essential nutrient so we need to ingest it daily. As it is not stored it cannot be overdosed.

A word of warning though - do not take Vitamin C supplements at the same time as aspirin - the combination is very irritant to the stomach lining. Also it taking a supplement, look for a buffered form which is digested over a longer period of time and far less irritant. Also avoid chewable tablets - the acidity is not good for the teeth!

Vitamin E, again crucial in a cancer diet.

Role: Antioxidant, used in circulation and tissue repair.

Natural sources include coldpressed vegetable oils, leafy green vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds and wholegrains. Brown rice, eggs, kelp, oatmeal and sweet potatoes are also good sources.

Just a note - the body needs zinc to maintain levels of Vitamin E in the blood, also take iron supplements at a different time from Vitamin E as some forms of iron will destroy Vitamin E.

As always a diet that draws from all food groups, fruit, vegetable, meat, fish, chicken, grains, nuts, seeds and oils, all eaten as close to the way nature made them is the best cancer diet possible.

Marilyn Bennett’s partner Glenn was declared cancer-free after 11 months using a nutritional approach. They are now on a mission to "spread the word" re the many things they discovered we can all do to fight cancer. Please visit http://www.cancer-einfo.com.

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Cancer and Diet
By Marilyn Bennett

The issue of cancer and diet is paramount to your health. Without feeding the body the ingredients it needs, it simply cannot produce the processes that combat the cancer.

Firstly, when looking at nutrition for cancer, we need to understand the role of pancreatic enzymes. These enzymes, including trypsin & chymotrypsin, play a major role in halting the formation of tumours. Unfortunately these enzymes also play a part in digesting animal proteins, so if our diets are too high in animal protein, then our supply of pancreatic enzymes is tied up in digestion and not available for halting tumours.

Secondly, we need to understand the role of B17 (hydrocyanic acid) in our diets and specifically its interaction with cancer. B17 interacts with the very large amounts of beta-glucosidase in cancer cells to produce hydrogen cyanide and benzaldehyde. These two poisons combine into an extremely deadly poison that targets cancer cells. The reason that it doesn't target healthy cells is that although they have small quantities of beta-glucosidase, they also contain rodonase, a substance that cancer cells do not have, that breaks the poison down into compounds that actually assist the bodies immune system! Clever, hey!?

So we start to see the crucial relationship between cancer and diet!

At this point it is interesting to note that one of the most concentrated sources of natural B17 is apricot kernels - that is the kernel INSIDE the apricot seed itself. However it is our understanding that the sale of apricot kernels is illegal in some countries, including ours. Consequently if you are lucky enough to get your hands on a large supply, it will be by word of mouth connections. However if you are prepared to ask friends to eat a lot of apricots or go on a mission to make frozen or bottled apricots, or maybe apricot jam, there is no law to our knowledge that says you can't eat them. The recommended dosage for people with cancer is up to 60 a day, but starting with 2 per meal and adding one per meal daily to ensure there is no intolerance.

Side note: Apparently the bureaucratic argument for making sale of them illegal is that they will poison you as they are a cyanide compound, (hydrocyanic acid) and produce another cyanide, (hydrogen cyanide) but they fail to follow through and tell us that the hydrogen cyanide then combines with the rodonase to make compounds that actually boost the immune system. Following this logic I have to wonder why then that Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin!) has not been banned. You may be aware they feed B12 to anemia patients!

So, we can address a diet for cancer from specific angles. Firstly by adding whatever natural sources we can find that contain B17, secondly by reducing (not cutting out!) animal protein intake, and thirdly by adding nutrients to our diets in their most easily & effectively absorbed forms ie in foods.

The bottom line is our body is at our mercy and what we put in to it can either help or hinder its ability to help us. The beauty of becoming aware of the interaction of cancer and diet is that it is something we can do for ourselves, thereby empowering us in the fight against this horrid invader!

Marilyn Bennett is co-author of the best-selling Cancer: Diagnosis to Clear in 11 Months, which chronicles her partner’s journey with cancer. For more information on her extensive research into cancer, please visit http://www.cancer-einfo.com

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Asbestosis: Top Jobs That Put You At Risk
By Donald Lawson

People are affected by asbestos when they breath the micro fibers. These fibers can have long term affects to your health. There have been many cases of people coming down with Mesothelioma 20 and 30 years after being exposed to asbestos.

Asbestos is not a thing of the past. It's still used in many manufacturing processes and well as in building components. The following is a list of the top occupations that are putting people at risk. If you work in one of these occupations, or have in the past, it's wise to get regular screenings.

Any job that includes the manufacturing of asbestos, for example insulation, plumbing supplies, roofing components or other building materials.
Mechanics are at risk due to asbestos in the brake and clutch linings.
Tile contractors are at risk due to the dust from cutting some types of tile.
Oil refinery workers, rail yard and power plant workers can be at risk from various sources.
Shipyard and/or ship builders are at risk due to the asbestos in pipe insulation and other sources.
Steel mill workers can come into contact with Asbestos from a variety of insulation and clothing. Asbestos is a great insulator and is used widely in jobs that require a person to be around high temperatures.
Navy veterans can also be at risk as can Maritime workers.
Construction workers can be at risk, especially those who do demolition of older buildings.

Who else should be concerned?

Brick layers, plumbers, sand blasters, sheet metal workers, millwrights, welders, painters, Longshoremen, merchant marines, grinders, electricians, drywall contractors, miners, drillers, building inspectors and maintenance personnel are a few more people who are at risk.

Remember, it doesn't take a lot of exposure to affect your life years down the road.

You may also be putting your family at risk. There have been cases where workers family members came down with Mesothelioma even though they were nowhere near the job sites. Evidence suggests that the family members were affected by the Asbestos fibers that came in on the workers clothing, hair and/or shoes.

Get routine screenings if you're in one of these high-risk professions and take every precaution (such as respirators and special clothing) to protect yourself and your family.

This article is not intended to be given as medical advice. It's for informational purposes only and you should see a qualified medical doctor should you have concerns about your health. If you need more information about Mesothelioma Cancer or Asbestos, including resources and descriptions of the disease, please go to http://www.mesothelioma-information-help.com

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