Dr. Keith Nemec – Page 8 – Total Health Institute

Magnesium is Vital to the Brain for Memory

The medical community agrees that cognitive impairment (CI), ranging from mild to severe, is almost epidemic in the U.S. as the Baby Boomer generation is aging and living longer. Scientists believe one reason is that the human brain begins shrinking after age 25. Structural changes and loss of brain synapses lead to rapid decline in cognitive health.

The human brain has a greater degree of plasticity or ability to adapt and change than scientists previously believed, and new studies, specifically those made in nutritional research, show that magnesium deficiency in adults may play a more important role in CI, and more seriously, Alzheimer’s disease (AD), than previously thought.

The results of one medically significant study suggest that elevation of brain magnesium through dietary intake of magnesium exerts substantial positive effects on brain synapes in a mouse model of AD, actually restoring aging brains to their youthful conditions. The study is the first to show a mechanism for reversing cognitive decline in advanced stage AD mice, and is also the first to show an effective long-term treatment in AD mice. More exciting, though, are the implications of this study for the potential for treating AD in humans.

There is no doubt that magnesium has dramatic effects in preventing synapse loss and reversing memory decline in mice with Alzheimer’s disease.

Cognitive impairment can affect a person’s memory, language, perception, ability to plan and carry out tasks, and judgment. A recently concluded double blind, placebo-controlled human study, the ‘gold standard’ of science, demonstrates that dietary supplementation of magnesium, can significantly enhance human cognitive functions and decrease symptoms of cognitive impairments.”

50 million Americans are magnesium deficit because people do not eat enough foods that contain magnesium. We know that as we age our bodies naturally lose magnesium. For example, drinking coffee or caffeinated products increases the loss. This deficit must be replaced by taking a nutritional supplement.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, estimates show that approximately 20% of people ages 55 and older will experience some form of cognitive impairment. The number and growth of the aging population in the U.S. is unprecedented. Two factors — longer life spans and aging baby boomers — will combine to double the population of American’s aged 65 years or older during the next 25 year to about 72 million. By 2030, older adults will account for roughly 20% of the U.S. population

–Journal of Neuroscience, ScienceDaily

Dr. Keith & Laurie Nemec’s Comments on Magnesium is Vital to the Brain:

Magnesium is not just about brain health it is about total health. It is the second most important cofactor in all cellular reactions and is critical not only to the brain but also to the heart and all muscular function.

Magnesium plays an essential role in a wide range of fundamental cellular reactions. More than 300 enzymes require magnesium as a cofactor. Complexed with ATP, the main carrier of metabolic energy in the body, magnesium is essential for all biosynthetic processes, the formation of energy in the body, muscle function including heart function and often overlooked, magnesium is critical in brain function.

Food sources included: almonds, spinach, avocados, cashews and pumpkin seeds.

We formulated a special multi-chelated form of magnesium to help with all possible magnesium deficiencies affecting both mental/emotional and physical imbalances.

As one of our patients writes: I had to get off clonopin (benzo) and my hands would shake every morning, my mind would spin. Once I took the Magnesium I was not shaking anymore. Thank God for this Magnesium”

Does Stress Have an Impact on the Development of Cancer?

Stress and Cancer People know intuitively that stress and anxiety can adversely affect their day to day health. We’ve all experienced it; the stressful work week that culminates in a weekend spent nursing a cold or the flu. This is more than anecdotal. Scientific studies have drawn a link between periods of intense stress and the occurrence of many common illnesses. That’s why doctors and nutritionists recommend that patients boost their intake of vitamins and supplements during periods of intense emotional or physical stress. However, while the idea that stress can affect our general health is widely accepted, it rarely extends to more serious chronic diseases. But recent studies are poised to change that, and are showing a direct link between intense and prolonged periods of stress and the development of many common types of cancer.

Cancer and the Immune System

Every one of us is exposed to cancer causing agents every day of our lives. They are in the air we breathe, the food we eat, and the water we drink. When our bodies are strong and healthy, we are better able to effectively neutralize these cancer causing agents. A healthy immune system can prevent these toxic agents from taking root in the body. It can also identify any potentially cancerous cells and target them for destruction before they can multiply and become tumorous. This is a natural, and ongoing, process. However, extended periods of stress and anxiety can significantly compromise the body’s immune system, weakening it and leaving it incapable of successfully warding off the onset of cancer and other diseases.

The Stress Gene

A recent study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation demonstrates a further link between stress and the advancement of cancer. ATF3, the so-called ‘stress gene’, is activated when the body is under both emotional and physical stress. The purpose of the gene is to target damaged or compromised cells, and cause them to self-destruct. In this way, damaged or mutated cells are prevented from multiplying and leading to cancer and other serious disorders. When cancerous cells appear in the body, the immune system sends T-cells to the site to attack and destroy the cancer. However, the latest research has shown that cancer cells can use the ATF3 gene against these immune cells, causing them to malfunction and allowing the cancer to grow and to move to other parts of the body. But the ATF3 gene is not only activated by the cancer cells. It is also activated by emotional and physical stress, essentially making the body a prime host for a variety of common cancers.

Emotional Health and Cancer Therapy

If we accept that stress and anxiety have a direct impact on the development of cancer, we must also understand that they have an equally direct impact on cancer therapy and recovery. Reducing stress levels allows the body to tap the energy it needs to successfully combat the cancer, prevent it from spreading, and ultimately return itself to optimal health. So it is necessary to learn and adopt some relaxation techniques that can help rid the body of stress and anxiety. Consider the following relaxation techniques:

Prayer and Meditation – Research has shown that daily prayer alters the brains neural pathways and makes the mind and body more resilient to stress. Simply setting aside a few minutes every day to meditate on the word of God can help boost your body’s ability to ward off a number of diseases.
Deep Breathing Exercises – Deep breathing helps to combat stress by lowering the blood pressure and slowing the heart rate. When you are under stress, disengage for five minutes or so and perform some deep breathing exercises. Focus only on your breathing, until your body and mind relaxes.
Exercise – Regular exercise has been proven to combat depression, and it is just as effective in eliminating stress and anxiety. Something as simple as a thirty minute walk every day can help reduce internal anxiety, and boost the immune system. Combining prayer with a daily walk is also a good way to center the mind and body, and release the inner tensions that can lead to disease.

Stress is with us every day, and it has a definite effect on our health and well-being. The most recent research is showing that stress and anxiety may have an even greater impact on our health than we realized, so it is more important than ever to learn how to manage the emotional and physical stresses that we are exposed to.

Radon and Lung Cancer – Is Your Family At Risk?

Generally, when we talk about lung cancer and its causes, our initial focus is on smoking. That’s to be expected, as smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer for men and women around the world. However, there are other environmental factors that can contribute to an increased risk for developing lung cancer. Radon, a colorless and odorless gas, is the second leading cause of lung cancer in Americans, and the single most common cause of lung cancer in non-smokers. Unfortunately, the hazards of radon are rarely discussed, and many people may be risking exposure without even knowing it. However, there are proactive steps that people can take to limit their exposure to this dangerous gas, and to reduce their risks for developing radon induced lung cancer.

Radon – A Primer

Radon is a naturally occurring gas that is produced by the normal decay of uranium deposits in soil. As the uranium decays, the radon gas is released into the surrounding soil, or into the atmosphere. Radon is both odorless and colorless, making it difficult to detect without proper testing equipment. Radon can enter people’s homes through cracks in the foundation and walls, through gaps around sump pumps or drains, and through cracked or poorly fitted pipes. Radon has also been detected in the water supplies of people whose home’s depend on well water.

Radon and Lung Cancer

Radon gas carries a low level of radiation, which has been linked to an increased risk for a number of disorders, including lung cancer. When radon is released into the home, it binds with particles in the air which are then breathed in by the inhabitants. Smokers are particularly susceptible to radon related lung cancer, mostly due to the prolonged damage that has already been done to their lungs. But people who live with smokers are also at a greater risk, as smoking produces an abundance of air particles that the radon gas can bind with to produce a toxic home environment. Some people may be at a greater risk for radon related cancers due to infirmity or a genetic predisposition to cancer. Children and the elderly are at a significantly higher risk than otherwise healthy adults.

Testing for Radon

While the thought of a colorless and odorless cancer causing gas permeating your home is certainly frightening, there is some good news. Testing your home for radon gas is easy and inexpensive. The EPA recommends that all home owners, and anyone considering the purchase of a new home, should have the property tested for radon gas. Testing kits are available at most hardware stores, and typically cost between $20 and $40. After the test has been performed according to instructions, the kit should be returned to the manufacturer who will process the results and send you a detailed report. In the United States, any radon level above 4pCi/L (pico curies per liter) is deemed hazardous to the home owner’s health. In Canada and Europe, radon levels over 2pCi/L are considered abnormal. Ideally you want as low a reading as possible.

What to Do if Your Home Has Elevated Radon Levels

If, after testing, your home shows signs of elevated radon levels there are some simple steps you can take to reduce your exposure. Hire a certified contractor to inspect your home. Many licensed contractors are certified by the EPA for radon detection and repairs, and these firms will be able to located the source of the exposure and suggest repairs to eliminate the problem. In most cases repair costs are minimal, averaging between $1200 and $2200.

The World Health Organization estimates that nearly 15% of all lung cancer cases worldwide are the result of radon exposure. To put that into perspective, a person exposed to a radon level of 4pCi/L is five times more likely to die of lung cancer than in a car crash. The statistics are startling, and more than a little chilling. Fortunately, there are steps everyone can take to limit their exposure to this dangerous gas. If you are a home owner, or are thinking of buying a new home, now is the time to have it tested for radon. If you are an apartment dweller, contact your landlord and ask if they have tested the property, and if they have taken steps to limit the potential radon exposure. Your health, and the health of your family, may depend upon it.

High Blood Pressure and Prostate Cancer – Are You at Risk?

It has long been understood that there is a direct causal link between high blood pressure and a number of chronic health disorders. The links between hypertension and heart disease are particularly well documented. But recent studies in Europe and the United States are revealing that there is a surprising connection between long term high blood pressure and the development of certain cancers. These studies have specifically linked high blood pressure with an increased risk for prostate cancer in men. Even more disturbing, is the apparent link between high blood pressure and mortality rates in men diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Prostate Cancer – Associated Risk Factors

While prostate cancer is the most common form of cancer to affect men, its primary causes remain unclear. Despite years of ongoing studies, researchers are still unable to determine what causes the cells within the prostate gland to become cancerous. Certain general risk factors have been identified, however, such as the individual’s age and family history. Beyond that, little headway has been made over the years in determining the underlying cause of the disease. A recent European study looked into the correlation between certain metabolic risk factors, such as body mass index and high blood pressure, and increased instances of prostate cancer. The results were surprising. Men with a higher body mass index, particularly those who would be classified as clinically obese, had a 36% greater risk of developing prostate cancer. Even more surprising, men within the study group who suffered from long term high blood pressure had a 62% greater risk for developing prostate cancer. Of even greater concern was the increase in mortality rates. The study revealed that men suffering from high blood pressure had a 14% greater risk of dying from the disease than those with a mid-level blood pressure.

Controlling High Blood Pressure Safely

These statistics make it clear that treating high blood pressure should be a priority for men who wish to lower their risk for prostate cancer. However, the choice of treatment methods is critical. Conventional treatments for high blood pressure rely on a variety of prescription drugs that have their own attendant risks. Not only do these high blood pressure medications create an ongoing drug dependency in patients, but the medications themselves have been linked to an increased risk for certain cancers. Treating high blood pressure naturally is the key.

Natural Treatments for High Blood Pressure

Treating high blood pressure naturally begins with making some simple lifestyle changes. Diet is one of the most effective tools in controlling high blood pressure, and transitioning to a wholly vegan diet rich in organic fruits and vegetables can have a powerful impact on a person’s blood pressure. It is also important to eliminate foods that are high in cholesterol and saturated fats, and to add foods to the diet that are rich in magnesium, potassium and calcium. In addition to adopting a healthier diet, exercise is a key factor in lower the blood pressure. Studies have repeatedly shown that people who engage in physical activity on a regular basis greatly reduce their risk for developing high blood pressure. Moreover, people with elevated blood pressure who exercise 30 to 60 minutes three to four times a week can significantly decrease their blood pressure readings.

Stress Management and Deep Breathing Exercises

Stress and anxiety contribute to high blood pressure, and it is important to learn to control these two factors. Deep breathing exercises, for 15 minutes a day every day, can help to reduce stress and lower tension related high blood pressure. These breathing exercises can be combined with regular prayer to further reduce tension and eliminate the daily stresses that can so adversely affect a person’s health.

High blood pressure has often been called the silent killer, due to its association with heart disease and stroke. But new research is showing that there is a direct causal link between high blood pressure and other chronic diseases, not the least of which is cancer. To live better, and longer, it is important for men, and women, to watch their blood pressure and take natural proactive steps to keep it within healthy norms.

Thyroid Cancer – An All Natural Alternative to Prevention and Treatment

Thyroid cancer is a growing problem in the United States. Unlike other types of cancer, where the annual statistics have leveled off or even started to decline, new instances of thyroid cancer continue to rise. Last year more than 62,000 people were diagnosed with some form of thyroid cancer. That’s more than twice the number of cases diagnosed in 1990. The reasons for the steady increase in cases of thyroid cancer is unclear, but what is clear is that more and more people every year are undergoing treatment for the disease. Conventional medicine treats thyroid cancer with surgery and radiation, both of which are highly invasive and potentially harmful to the patient. Understandably, many people who have been diagnosed with this disease are looking for alternative therapies to combat the cancer and restore their thyroid gland to its optimal health.

Common Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer can occur at any age, and it is three times more likely to affect women as it is to affect men. Thyroid cancer has many forms, and many different causes. The most common form, follicular thyroid cancer, is caused by a lack of iodine. This form of thyroid cancer is rare in the United States, as most Americans have a diet that provides adequate amounts of iodine. Papillary and medullary thyroid cancers are often caused by exposure to radiation or environmental toxins. The most common symptom of thyroid cancer is a lump or nodule in the thyroid gland or neck. This is often also accompanied by hoarseness, swollen lymph nodes, and difficulty breathing or swallowing.

Natural Treatment Protocols

Conventional treatments for thyroid cancer typically involve the surgical removal of all, or part, of the thyroid gland. Other conventional treatments include radiation and chemotherapy to shrink existing tumors. Due to the highly invasive nature of these treatments, many people are looking for all natural ways to prevent and treat thyroid cancer. The natural prevention and treatment, of thyroid cancer involves three basic protocols – diet, exercise, and the mind-body connection.

Diet and Lifestyle

To prevent, and treat, most forms of thyroid cancer certain lifestyle changes need to be made. First and foremost is diet. A vegan diet is recommended for people who wish to prevent and treat thyroid cancer naturally. An emphasis should be placed on organic vegetables and fruits, as this will minimize exposure to pesticides and other chemicals which may impede the body’s ability to detoxify itself. Foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, such as spinach, watercress, walnuts and flax seed, should be added to the diet. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to lower the risk for a number of different diseases, including diabetes, heart disease and cancer. Vitamin supplements should also form a part of your nutritional protocol. Vitamins C, E, and B12 help to support the immune system, while selenium and lycopene have been shown to help reduce the risk of the recurrence of many cancers.

Exercise

Exercise is an important part of any natural cancer treatment. It primarily helps to strengthen and invigorate the body. Providing the body with the energy it needs to remain healthy, and to ward off potential disease. Regular exercise is also one of the easiest ways to detoxify the body. Tests have shown that many of the cancer causing toxins that we are exposed to on a daily basis can be sweated out of the body during regular, rigorous, exercise.

The Mind-Body Connection

One area that often gets overlooked in the treatment of cancer is the mind-body connection. Faith and spirituality play vital roles in the healing process. Prayer and meditation on God’s word can help cancer patients relieve stress, and increase the body’s innate healing energy. Prayer, and the mind-body connection, are vital elements in the all-natural treatment and prevention of cancer.

With thyroid cancer statistics continuing to rise, the all-natural approach to living cancer free becomes even more important. But with a healthy vegan diet, exercise, and by listening to the voice of God speak Truth to our heart, it is possible maintain the body’s total health, and to prevent or reverse thyroid cancer.

Anxiety Relief with Diet and Supplementation

Anxiety relief through health food and supplements

Anxiety disorders are currently the most common neuropsychiatric disorders in the United States and Europe. They also represent one of the most major health problems in the western world. There are many supplements that can help with treating anxiety. Kava, passionflower, valerian, and magnesium are all excellent ways of helping to cope with anxiety.

There is substantial evidence out there that kava has a positive effect on anxiety disorders. Kava has consistently shown that it is better than a placebo in producing reductions in anxiety symptoms. The authors of one study concluded that kava taken for one to 24 weeks was safe and effective. Kava can lead to improvements in the symptoms of generalized anxiety when taken for a short time. Another clinic trial shows that it is superior to placebos and roughly equivalent to oxazepam or bromazepam. Kava can be purchased in root form, tincture, capsule, tea, or paste.

Another supplement that can be helpful in treating anxiety is passionflower. One single, randomized, double – blind trial compared passionflower tincture to oxazepam for 30 days.

The investigators noted a reduction in the anxiety score of both groups.¹ In another four week, double blind study of individuals with generalized anxiety, they once again compared passionflower to oxazepam. Oxazepam worked quicker, but by the end of the study, both treatments were proved equally effective. It was also shown that the passionflower had far less side-effects. Another placebo-controlled trial showed that passionflower significantly reduced pre-surgery anxiety. Passionflower is available as a capsule or a tincture.

Another herbal supplement for anxiety is valerian. Valerian is best known as a treatment for insomnia.

Since most of the drugs that are useful for insomnia also help to reduce anxiety, valerian has been proposed as an anxiety treatment as well. A double – blind, placebo – controlled study was done with people with generalized anxiety disorder. They were given either valerian, valium, or a placebo for four weeks. After careful analysis, the results hinted that valerian was helpful in treating anxiety. Valerian helps to relax the mind and the body, and that is what helps give people relief from anxiety. Valerian can be bought as a tea, tincture, capsule, or dried herb.

A mineral that is effective in treating anxiety that can be taken as a supplement or found in foods is magnesium. Magnesium is one of the most abundant minerals on the planet. Unfortunately many modern day food production practices essentially wipe it out of the food. There is increasing evidence of the role of poor nutrition in the development of some psychiatric diseases like anxiety.

A relationship between magnesium and anxiety is suggested in mice that have low plasma magnesium levels and increased anxiety behavior. It does not matter if these levels were depleted naturally or experimentally induced. It has also been shown that supplementation with magnesium reduces the anxiety – related behavior in the mice. It has also been shown that magnesium controls the activity of the hypothalamic – pituitary adrenocortical (HPA) axis, which is considered to be the main stress response system. It has been suggested that dysregulations in the CRH – HPA axis system may contribute to pathological anxiety. There are millions of people who are deficient in magnesium in some way. Stress even appears to decrease magnesium in the body. Magnesium can be taken as a supplement or found in foods. Some excellent food sources are almonds, spinach, cashews, avocados, broccoli, and carrots.

Anxiety affects around 7 million adults in the United States. There are many effective natural ways to treat anxiety. Kava and passionflower have been proven to be just as effective as one of the most commonly prescribed medications for anxiety. Valerian is an herb that can help with the symptoms of anxiety. Magnesium is also a way to help with the effects of anxiety.

Dr. Keith & Laurie Nemec’s comments on Anxiety:

What is anxiety? It is a physiological and mental reaction in the body. So how would you best address anxiety? Well if you are like most Americans you would say take medication for it. If you are not the medication type then you would say take vitamins and herbs because they are more natural, and they are so this is a better choice than relying on medication that can have from 7-500 side effects.

This is why we listed some of the alternative choices. Next would be to eat the right foods and this goes without saying but many do not know what foods are helpful and that is why the best foods to consume are listed. But there is even a better way and that is to become healthy in body, mind and spirit. What we have seen in treating patients for 30 years is this: the symptom, condition or disease is not the problem it is the effect and not the cause. So if you take magnesium this is very good but you still are not addressing the cause.

This is what we do at Total Health Institute. We find the causes and when those are resolved the effects go away and the end product is you are healthy and your anxiety can completely resolve. We have seen this with so many of our patients over the years. So if you want to take the beginning steps in addressing your anxiety then you can begin with magnesium and nerve calm. But far better is to have your complete health evaluated at Total Health Institute. We have outpatient services for those who can drive and for those who live too far away we have inpatient programs and our “Stay at Home” program which is a tremendous way to improve your health from home and have Dr. Nemec personally coach you.

Remember it is always about getting healthy and NOT about trying to get rid of a disease.

Dehydration – Natural Treatment and Prevention of Cancer

Water is essential to life. Most people know and accept this as a given. But the importance of water in our lives goes beyond simply quenching our thirst on a hot day. Water, in all of its purity, is essential to maintaining the total health of the body and in protecting it from a variety of disorders and diseases. The importance of hydration is often overlooked when people talk about natural cancer therapies. But it is one of the most important factors in the all-natural treatment and prevention of cancer, and the adverse effects of dehydration on the human body cannot be overestimated.

Water and Cancer – Causes and Effects

Two-thirds of the human body is comprised of water, and the cells and organs in our bodies depend on that water to perform a variety of vital functions. Water is necessary for the transportation of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body, and for the constant removal of waste and other dangerous toxins. When we allow our bodies to become dehydrated, we create an environment in which cancerous cells can more easily develop and replicate. Studies have demonstrated that cancer cells are unable to thrive in an oxygen rich environment, and when we allow ourselves to become dehydrated we inadvertently rob the cells and organs in our body of the oxygen they need to remain healthy and free from cancer. The effect of toxins on the proliferation of cancer is also well documented, and when a body becomes dehydrated toxic levels can build and lead to the formation of cancer cells and tumors. Another important factor to consider, is that when a body becomes even mildly dehydrated it will attempt to compensate by drawing water from less critical areas of the body, ultimately weakening the body’s defenses against a wider range of diseases and disorders.

Dehydration and Cancer Formation

Dehydration contributes to the formation of cancer in a variety of different ways:

It Suppresses the Immune System – When a body becomes dehydrated, histamine production is increased. This can lead to an increase in vasopressin, a chemical that inhibits the normal function of the immune system. Increased histamine levels also affects the ability of bone marrow to produce the white blood cells which are instrumental in destroying cancerous, and precancerous, cells.
It Can Lead to Critical DNA Damage – Proper hydration allows the body to expel waste and toxins. When toxins build up in the body, they can inhibit the normal flow of oxygen and nutrients to the cells. When this happens, the cell’s natural DNA structure can be damaged, leading to the proliferation of mutant, and/or cancerous, cells. Long term dehydration can lead to permanent damage to the DNA structure of the cells, allowing mutant cells to grow and colonize into tumorous growths.
It Disrupts the Body’s Natural pH Balance – A healthy body has a pH level of between 7.3 and 7.4. When a body becomes dehydrated over a long period of time, the kidneys are unable to properly eliminate acidic waste. When this happens, the body’s pH level becomes unbalanced, causing acid levels to increase and alkaline levels to decrease. Studies have shown that cancer thrives in an acidic environment, so it is vital to stay properly hydrated in order to maintain the body’s optimal pH levels.

It you have cancer your water intake is even more important as a part of an alternative cancer treatment program. This is an absolute necessity making sure you drink at least 32 ounces per 50 pounds per day.

Hydrating for Health – How Much is Enough

If we accept that hydration is a key component in the natural prevention and treatment of cancer, we must then learn the best ways to keep our bodies hydrated. Water is the natural choice, but not all water is created equal. Unfortunately, tap water today contains a variety of contaminants that can prove to be harmful to our health. Consequently, distilled water, or water that has been filtered using a reverse osmosis method, is the preferred alternative to regular tap water. As to how much water a person should drink each day to prevent chronic dehydration, the amounts vary by individual according to lifestyle and certain health factors. A general rule of thumb however is roughly 16-32 ounces per each 50 pounds of body weight.

Chronic dehydration can lead to a number of adverse health conditions, not the least of which is cancer. Often, people may not even realize that their bodies are dehydrated. But to maintain the body’s total health, and to protect it from potential cancers, it is vital to keep the body hydrated through the regular intake of pure clean water.

All Natural Techniques for Coping With Lymphocytic Leukemia

Lymphocytic leukemia, more commonly referred to simply as leukemia, is a cancer that attacks the blood and the bone marrow. While the direct causes of leukemia are still unclear, what is known is that it occurs because of a genetic mutation of the blood producing cells within the body. This mutation leads to the production of abnormal white blood cells, or lymphocytes, whose job it is to fight infections and maintain the body’s total health. Lymphocytic leukemia is one of the most difficult cancers to treat, and patients face many challenges when coping with the disease. Because it attacks the blood itself, leukemia is often accompanied by fatigue and a variety of secondary infections that sap the patient’s strength and impede their ability to recover. Fortunately, there are some all natural techniques that leukemia patients can employ to help restore their health and their strength, and give them the energy they need to combat the cancer that is invading their body.

Avoiding Infections

Because lymphocytic leukemia attacks the bone marrow and the white blood cells, people diagnosed with the disease are often prone to frequent infections. These infections are often more troublesome for leukemia sufferers than for otherwise healthy individuals. They tend to linger, and to rob the body of the energy it needs to fight the existing cancer. People with chronic lymphocytic leukemia need to take proactive steps to keep themselves healthy, and to stave off infections. The first step is to eat a healthy diet, rich in fresh organic vegetables, seeds, nuts, avocados and olive oil. An essentially vegan diet is one of the primary building blocks of total health, and it can help people suffering with leukemia improve their immune system’s function and avoid infections. Regular exercise is also an important part of avoiding infections. Taking regular exercise helps to increase lung capacity, improve circulation and oxygenate the blood. Since cancer can not survive in a highly oxygenated environment, regular exercise will not only help to protect against common infections, it well help to fight the cancer itself. It is also advisable that leukemia patients avoid contact with people who have the flu or other infectious diseases, and that they wash their hands thoroughly after any necessary contact.

Avoiding Secondary Cancers

People suffering with lymphocytic leukemia are also often prone to developing secondary cancers. Again, because the health of the body has been compromised, it is more susceptible to a variety of diseases over and above common infections. Certain lifestyle changes can help to reduce the risk of developing these secondary cancers. First, and foremost, it is important to eliminate any habits that may increase the cancer risk. If you are a smoker, now is the time to quit. The consumption of alcohol should also be eliminated. Exposure to carcinogenic chemicals, such as pesticides and herbicides, should also be restricted or eliminated whenever possible.

Fighting Chronic Fatigue

One of the major problems leukemia sufferers face is chronic fatigue. This is not only debilitating in general, it can inhibit the body’s ability to stave off infections and other diseases. Battling the fatigue that accompanies lymphocytic leukemia may be the most important part of coping with the disorder. Again, the first step is to transition to a wholly vegan diet, with an emphasis on organically grown vegetables, seeds, nuts and avocados. Remember, because the immune system is compromised it is vital to avoid possible cancer causing chemicals like pesticides and herbicides. A vegan diet will also help to boost the body’s energy levels, providing the fuel it needs to remain active. Regular cellular exercise is also important. It moves lymph fluid which is where two thirds of your immune cells are located and it also helps detoxify the body because the lymph system is like the sewer system of the body. If you boost the immune system and eliminate toxins and chemicals it helps to keep the body’s energy levels regulated. Chronic fatigue is often caused by ineffectual sleep patterns, and these can be rectified by adopting a regular exercise routine that will help to expend latent energy and reduce stress, allowing the body to rest more effectively come bed time.

Leukemia sufferers face a unique set of challenges. The cancer they are fighting often leaves them susceptible to a wider range of common disorders. But by taking a few all natural proactive steps, it is possible for leukemia patients to reduce their risk for developing infections and secondary cancers, and to overcome the chronic fatigue that so often accompanies the disease.

The All Natural Path to Preventing Esophageal Cancer

Nearly 18,000 new cases of esophageal cancer are diagnosed each year, and while those numbers have remained relatively stable over the last few decades cancer of the esophagus remains one of the most difficult cancers to treat. It is estimated that 1 in 125 men, and 1 in every 435 women, in the United States will develop esophageal cancer at sometime in their lives. Obviously, statistics favor women when it comes to esophageal cancer, although the gap between men and women appears to be slowly closing. There are two basic types of esophageal cancer. The first, and most common, is squamous cell carcinoma, which affects the cells that line the entirety of the esophagus. The second type of esophageal cancer develops in the glands, and is called adenocarcinoma. This is the more dangerous of the two, and is more likely to metastasize and spread to other parts of the body. As with any type of cancer, the best medicine is prevention, and there are steps everyone can take to greatly reduce their risk for developing this life threatening disease.

Risk Factors and Symptoms of Esophageal Cancer

Like many cancers, the risk of developing esophageal cancer increases with age, with more than 85% of cases occurring in people over the age of 55. While the direct cause of esophageal cancer remains unknown, scientists have discovered several key risk factors. Smoking and alcohol abuse are two of the main contributing factors, followed closely by obesity and a poor diet. Those people with a history of acid reflux disease and achalasia (in which the muscle at the lower end of the esophagus fails to relax properly making it difficult for food to pass into the stomach) are also at a higher risk for developing cancer of the esophagus.

The most common symptoms of esophageal cancer include:

Difficulty swallowing
Unexpected weight loss
Pain in the chest
Indigestion or heartburn
Coughing
Chronic hoarseness

Using Diet to Prevent Esophageal Cancer

One of the most effective ways to prevent esophageal cancer is through a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables. A predominantly vegan diet supplies many of the anti-cancer compounds the body needs to ward off esophageal cancer. Cruciferous vegetables, such as kale, broccoli, cauliflower, bok choy, and Brussels sprouts should be added to the diet as a preventative measure against a variety of different types of cancer. These vegetables should, of course, be organically grown and harvested to avoid exposure to potentially carcinogenic pesticides and herbicides. Leafy greens like spinach, collard greens and dandelion are also a very powerful addition to a anti-cancer diet because of their high phytochemical (plant bound natural chemicals) that help fight cancerous cells in the esophagus.

Foods to Exclude from Your Cancer Fighting Diet

If diet is a key tool in the prevention of esophageal cancer, there are some foods that should be limited or eliminated completely. This is particularly true for those people with a family history of esophageal cancer, or with a personal history of acid reflux disease or achalasia. Fatty foods, and fried foods and acidic foods should be eliminated as a matter of course, as these contribute to a number of diseases including esophageal cancer. The most acidic foods are animal products while the least acidic are vegetables. Fish has a net acid load of 14.6 mEq, meat is 12.4 mEq and eggs are 7.3 mEq whereas nuts are -1.1mEq (negative means alkaline not acid so the higher the negative number the better), root vegetables are -5.4 mEqand leafy greens are -23.4 mEq.

All cancer prevention begins with diet and lifestyle, and preventing esophageal cancer is no different. By adopting a predominantly vegan diet, rich in cancer fighting foods, it is possible to greatly reduce the risk for developing esophageal cancer later in life. Of course, it is also important to avoid tobacco and alcohol use, and to be careful of exposure to potentially toxic chemicals at home or in the workplace. Esophageal cancer is difficult to treat successfully, but through an all natural approach to prevention it is possible to maintain your total health and live cancer free.

It is Better to Give than Receive

Giving People feel good when they make a charitable donation, but they feel even better if they make the donation directly to someone they know or in a way that builds social connection. Research investigates for the first time how social connection helps turn generous behavior into positive feelings on the part of the donor.

Researchers at Simon Fraser University, in Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada, and University of British Columbia, Vancouver and Harvard Business School, Massachusetts, USA, wanted to examine the emotional benefits of giving to charity. They carried out three studies of charitable donations, and found that spending money on others or giving money to charity leads to the greatest happiness boost when giving builds a social connection. The conclusion is that donors feel happiest if they give to a charity via a friend, relative or social connection rather than simply making an anonymous donation to a worthy cause.

-International Journal of Happiness and Development, ScienceDaily

Dr. Keith & Laurie Nemec comments on “It is Better to Give than Receive”

We were designed by God to give. It is in the core of our being. We will always feel better, be healthier and live longer when we give. This all starts from the source and that is giving thanks to God our Father for all that He has done for us and for the very breath we breathe because of Him.

If you want to make a bad situation better just give a gift. This gift can be a kind word, a nice gesture, helping someone in need, or simple giving a smile and saying hello. What would the world be like if everyone came to give instead of get. This truly would be His Kingdom come, His will be done on earth as it is in Heaven.

So remember Thanksgiving is not about food it is about FAMILY and most importantly God’s Family which you are a member of. How blessed are we to be a part of the Family of God. It doesn’t get better than this. So go out and let the world know what kind of Family you come from

We cover this shift in thinking in the Sally & George Going Deeper audio series.

When you are filled up and overflowing it is so natural to give to those around you.

6 Cancer Fighting Foods – Infographic

Our original article on Six Cancer Fighting Foods was very well received. In an effort to make this information easier to understand, we created an infographic to better showcase these powerful cancer fighting foods. We encourage you to share this graphic on Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, and through an embed code below.

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Does Pain Early in Life Make One “Stress Hardened”?

Early life pain alters neural circuits in the brain that regulate stress, suggesting pain experienced by infants who often do not receive analgesics while undergoing tests and treatment in neonatal intensive care may permanently alter future responses to anxiety, stress and pain in adulthood, a research team according to the Neuroscience Institute at Georgia State University.

Premature infants can spend an average of 25 days in neonatal intensive care, where they endure up to 18 painful and inflammatory procedures each day, including insertion of feeding tubes and intravenous lines and repeated blood testing. Pain and stress circuitry in the brain are established and functional in preterm infants. Approximately 65 percent of these procedures are performed without benefit of analgesia. Some clinical studies suggest early life pain has an immediate and long-term impact on responses to stress events.

The Georgia State study tested whether a single painful inflammatory procedure performed on rat pups on the day of birth alters specific brain receptors that affect behavioral sensitivity to stress, anxiety and pain in adulthood. The study findings match what is being reported clinically. Children who experienced unresolved pain following birth show reduced responsiveness to pain and stress.

–Psychoneuroendocrinology, ScienceDaily

Dr. Keith & Laurie Nemec comments on “Does Pain Early in Life Make One Stress Hardened?”

Is pain always bad? Does it always cause harmful effects? In this study they found with premature infants that had a lot of pain early in life actually caused their brains to adapt in ways that made them more stress resistant or stress hardened later in life.

Our mind would say pain is always harmful but ask any seasoned athlete or weightlifter and you will hear the unanimous response when asked about pain- “no pain, no gain”. It is like this in the world. We spend so much time avoiding problems and pains, hoping that they never come our way when the simple fact is this: everything in life has a purpose and that includes pain. Without more weight on the bar, more pain applied the weightlifter would never grow stronger muscles. Without running more sprints, more distance, more hills, more when they feel exhausted- the football players would not gain endurance and stamina. One powerful way to do this in your life today is change how you see the negative things in your life. See them as opportunities to grow physically, mentally and spiritually. We cover this shift in thinking in the Sally & George Going Deeper audio series.

Remember what the world system means for bad, God can always turn around for your growth and maturity if you only will TRUST HIM.

Five Important Herbs Used to Treat and Prevent Cancer

Herbs to Prevent Cancer When it comes to the natural prevention, and treatment, of cancer one need look no further than God’s own garden. The Lord, in His infinite wisdom, created a myriad of herbs and roots that can be used to help us maintain our optimal health. These important herbs have been used for centuries to treat a variety of disorders, and it is only recently that the efficacy of these herbs and roots has come to the attention of Western medicine. But what our ancestors knew still holds true today, and there are many important herbs and roots that can be highly effective in the fight against cancer. The following roots and herbs should be seen as prime examples of the healing prescriptions available from God’s pharmacy.

Echinacea

Echinacea, also known as purple cone flower, is one of the flowering plants that make up part of the daisy family. Many people take Echincea on a fairly regular basis, as a protection from the common cold. But the Echinacea plant has many more health benefits. In addition to boosting the immune system, Echinacea is also instrumental in directing the white blood cells to seek out and destroy foreign organisms in the bloodstream. In essence, Echinacea gives the body’s scavenger cells the power and direction they need to kill potentially cancerous cells. Moreover, Echinacea helps to detoxify the lymphatic glands, helping the body to ward off many of the common infections that plague cancer patients.

Burdock Root

Burdock Root has been used for centuries throughout the world as a medicinal herb. Like Echinacea, it helps to boost the immune system. However, Burdock Root also strengthens the liver and kidneys, and helps to purify the blood. Recent research has shown that Burdock Root contains powerful anti-cancer compounds which help to inhibit the growth of tumors, and that are particularly effective against certain types of leukemia and lymphoma.

Dandelion Root

One of the most powerful of the important herbs is the Dandelion Root. It has a number of health benefits. It purifies the blood, strengthens the liver, and aids in digestion. It is also a powerful ally in the fight against cancer. Dandelion Root contains polysaccharides which restrict the formation and growth of tumors. Moreover, these polysaccharides appear to seek out cancerous cells, killing them before they can reproduce and colonize. One of the things that makes Dandelion Root such a powerful tool in the natural treatment of cancer, is that it kills off cancerous cells while leaving healthy cells untouched.

Astragalus

This herb is more widely known in the East, although it is beginning to get more attention here in the West. Also known as Milkvetch or Goat’s Horn, Astragalus helps the body cope with physical stressors while stimulating the immune system. Astragalus also slows down the spread of cancer cells to other parts of the body, helping to supplement other natural therapies. Recent studies have also shown that Astragalus can protect the body from the toxic effects of chemotherapy.

Pau d’Arco

The final of the important herbs, Pau d’Arco is derived from the bark of the Lapacho tree, a native to South America. It has been used in the region for centuries as a natural treatment for infections as well as cancer. It contains natural anti-biotic and anti-tumor properties. However, the key benefit of Pau d’Arco is that it helps to oxygenate and nourish the cells of the body. Studies have shown that cancer cells can not thrive in an oxygen rich environment. By improving oxygen levels in the cells of the body, Pau d’Arco helps to protect them from any potential cancerous intrusion.

The natural prevention and treatment of cancer begins with the natural world. The earthly garden contains everything we need to not only keep our bodies healthy, but to restore them when they fall into disorder. These few examples of cancer fighting herbs and roots are just a sampling of what God has made available to us. To prevent and heal the cause of cancer, and to maintain our total health, we need look no further than the wonder that surrounds us. Any alternative cancer treatment protocol should look to what has been used for centuries to combat illness.

Preventing Stomach Cancer With Diet and Nutrition

Stomach cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the world, with more than 900,000 new cases being diagnosed every year. Stomach cancer, sometimes referred to as gastric cancer, is particularly prevalent in highly industrialized countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, South America and Japan. While the rate of new diagnoses has held steady over the last few decades, stomach cancer remains one of the most difficult cancers to treat successfully. Because the cancer compromises the stomach and digestive tract, it is difficult for patients to obtain the nutrients they need to fight off the disease. Even more than most diseases, where stomach cancer is concerned prevention is the key.

Common Risk Factors for Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer tends to affect men more often than women, however the risk for developing the disease increases for both sexes once they pass the age of 55. Genetics may play a small role, with research indicating that at least 3% of stomach cancer cases occur in people with a family history of the disease. People with a history of chronic gastritis and/or stomach ulcers also seem to be at a higher risk for stomach cancer. But the major risk factors for developing gastric cancer appear to be lifestyle and diet. Smoking is a major contributing factor to the disease, as is the regular abuse of alcohol. Certain foods have been associated with a heighten risk for stomach cancer, including processed meats and foods that are high in salt and sugar along with high tea consumption. Obviously, diet and lifestyle play a large part in increasing or decreasing a person’s risk for developing any disease. Fortunately, there are some key dietary changes that can be made to help reduce the risk for stomach cancer.

Limiting Protein

Most Western diets are rich in protein, and while protein is definitely important to good nutrition you can have too much of a good thing. The human body relies on an enzyme called pancreatin to digest proteins. However, pancreatin enzymes also have another important function, protecting the body from cancer. A high protein diet forces the pancreatin enzymes to spend all of their time and energy with the digestive processes, keeping them from the major task of fighting off cancer. Limiting the daily amount of protein in the diet will allow the pancreatin enzymes to concentrate on protecting the body from stomach cancer.

Add Foods Rich in Quercetin

Quercetin is a bioflavonoid that has powerful cancer fighting properties. It also has significant anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Foods rich in quercetin should be a large part of a healthy vegetarian based diet. These foods include red and yellow onions, broccoli, capers, and many different types of berries. Recent studies have indicated that including half of a raw red onion in the daily diet can reduce the risks of stomach cancer by as much as 50%.

Stick to Low Glycemic Foods

Foods with a high glycemic index are quickly broken down by the digestive system, causing blood sugar levels to spike and leading to an over production of insulin. Increased insulin levels have been linked to the growth and proliferation of cancerous tumors. Recent research is also finding a link between an abundance of insulin and the spread of cancers from one organ to another. Foods with a low glycemic index are more slowly digested, helping to maintain healthy blood sugar levels and eliminating sudden spikes in insulin production. Add foods with a glycemic index of 50 or below to your diet to help reduce the risk of stomach cancer. If you have a health challenge only eat foods with a glycemic index of 25 or less. Foods with a healthy low glycemic index include green vegetables, seeds, nuts, avocados, eggplant, mushrooms, tomatoes and cabbage.

Add Foods Rich in Beta-Glucans

Foods rich in beta-glucans should be a large part of any diet designed to prevent stomach cancer. Beta-Glucans are naturally occurring polysaccharides that have been proven to fight stomach cancer by directing immune cells into cancerous areas where they actively kill off cancer cells. A food group that is rich in beta-glucans is organic mushrooms. Beta-Glucans also help to support heart health and fight infections.

Adding these foods and limiting protein is part of any alternative cancer treatment focusing on the cause and not the effect.

Stomach cancer is one of the most virulent, and life threatening, cancers affecting the world today. As the fourth most common cancer in the world, it shows no signs of abating any time soon. Therefore, prevention is the key. By making certain lifestyle and dietary changes you can greatly reduce your risk for this all too common cancer.

Exercise to Prevent and Heal Depression

Physical activity is being increasingly recognized as an effective tool to treat depression. New research is finding that moderate exercise can actually prevent episodes of depression in the long term. This study analyzed over 26 years’ worth of research findings to discover that even low levels of physical activity like walking for 20-30 minutes a day can prevent depression in people of all age groups. The research has a clear take home message: If you are currently active, keep it up and if you are not physically active, then now is the time to start.

-American Journal of Preventive Medicine

Dr. Keith & Laurie Nemec comments on Exercise to Prevent and Heal Depression:

What this study shows is what we already know but need to be reminded of. When it comes to mental or physical disease, the answer is always found by going back to basics. What kept people in biblical times living to over 100 years of age remaining strong and vital. It was plenty of sleep (no electricity means you go to sleep when the sun goes down), pure, simple fresh food that had no chemicals, toxins or preservatives, and a lot of good strong exercise, they were constantly physically doing manual labor. The simplest way to improve your health is by doing 7 Basic Steps to Total Health most importantly:

Food – Are you consuming a diet of living/raw plant food which has the highest energy, bioelectricity, enzymes and bioavailable nutrient content to either maintain or restore your health? The more you eat food in the natural state and with little to no processing the healthier you will be.
Sleep – Are you sleeping 8.0 hours with 3.0 of them before midnight? The closer you follow the sun the healthier you will be.
Exercise – Are you exercising 30 minutes every day? This is what the people in this study did; they walked 20-30 minutes every day. We will add not only walking but going up and down stairs is very beneficial to your cardiovascular health.

Do not get overwhelmed start with just one of these until you feel it has become a habit then you can add the next one. So today begin your walking, try to walk 20 minutes and try to find some stairs either at work or home to walk up and down for five minutes. Remember the journey of a thousand miles begins with the FIRST STEP, so take that first step today.

How do you overcome depression and all other dis-eases? It begins going back to the 7 Basic Steps to Total Health.

Epigenetics Controls Cancer Formation, Growth, and Spread

Epigenetics control is a new field of scientific research to explore in order to stop the growth, spread and relapse of cancer.

Epigenetics means “above the gene” and the ability of something above or outside of the gene itself to turn the gene on or off. The researchers found that epigenetic changes control the development of cancer precursor cells. These cells represent the early stage of cancer cell development and can grow rapidly to become mature cancer. According to the researchers, progression of different cancer stages and development of metastatic potential requires differentiation of these cancer progenitor cells.

Mutated cells are more vulnerable to the environment. Some of these mutations may alter epigenetic regulation in addition to epigenetic changes occurring by external and internal influences, which impacts gene expression and regulates cell behavior, playing a profound role when normal cells develop into progenitor cancer cells.

The researchers believe that epigenetic mechanisms are involved in this process of turning cancer cell growth on or off. Once a degree of metastatic form of cancer is achieved, the genes, which cause the change, become inactive and the genes causing rapid growth are again turned on.

International Journal of Molecular Sciences, ScienceDaily

Dr. Keith & Laurie Nemec comments on Epigenetics Controls Cancer Formation, Growth and Spread:

The field of epigenetics in its simplest form means that when you change the internal environment around the cells, those cells adapt to that environment by either turning on genes that cause cancer to develop, grow and spread or by turning off genes that cause cancer. The key term is ENVIRONMENT! If you make a health promoting environment around your cells with the proper amount of oxygen, sufficient water, food that promotes health and healing, proper sleep so the cells can maintain and repair, proper exercise to promote movement of fluids bring the oxygen and food to the cells and removing waste products from the cells, then the cells will remain in a state of health and the epigenetic control will not turn on the cancer genes. The most exciting part of epigenetics is that YOU CONTROL YOUR ENVIROMENT so YOU CONTROL YOUR DESTINY.
With alternative cancer treatments and to prevent cancer in the first place, you must always focus on your ability to control your environment and this begins with 7 Basic Steps to Total Health

Some important points to remember about you changing your internal environment:

Cancer cells cannot grow in highly oxygenated environments.
If you do not drink enough water then you will not be able to get oxygen and food to the cells, and waste products away from the cells.
Cancer grows well in sugar so decrease your sugar and starches and increase your vegetables, salads, seeds, nuts and avocados.
Your cells repair and heal mostly with premidnight sleep. So try to get to bed as close to 8PM as possible. For each hour of premidnight sleep you get it is twice as important that postmidnight sleep.
You must move to make a healthy environment around your cells. Walk, go up and down stairs. Exercise increases the oxygen and food going into the cells and waste products leaving the cells.

Develop a regular routine of prayer and living more fully in the moment not focusing so much on the future or the past. People spend so much time in tomorrow or yesterday that they forget to live today. Live like today is the only day you have so live it to the full and make it count in the lives of the people you love and care about.
Mental and emotional stress not properly controlled is by far more harmful to producing a negative internal environment around your cells than any physical stressor. “Be still and know that I AM GOD”

Naturally Reducing Your Risk for Skin Cancer

Skin cancer is the single most common form of cancer in the United States today, affecting one out of every five people in the country. In fact, this cancer has become so prevalent in the United States that there are more cases of skin cancer being diagnosed each year than breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer, and colon cancer combined. It is an ongoing epidemic, and one that shows no signs of slowing anytime soon. The steady increase in the incidents of skin cancer over the last few decades has created a separate industry solely devoted to the prevention and treatment of this all too common cancer. But is shunning the sun and covering one’s self with sun screen really the answer? The short answer is – “No”.

What Causes Skin Cancer

Skin cancer manifests itself when the DNA of skin cells becomes damaged due to oxidative stress, and begins to mutate. This cancer typically begins at the outer layer of the skin (the epidermis), working its way to the squamous and basal cells that lay beneath the surface. Most cases of skin cancer are thought to be caused by over exposure to ultra-violet light, either from sunlight or tanning lamps, this is usually not the case. Skin cancer is actually caused by exposure to toxic materials such as pesticides, herbicides, and industrial cleaning chemicals. As with any disease, prevention is the key, and there is an all-natural path to reducing your risk for skin cancer.

Shunning the Sun

Many people mistakenly believe that protecting themselves from skin cancer means avoiding the sun all together. But the body needs natural sunlight to thrive, and time spent in the sunshine boosts the body’s production of vitamin D3, which is essential to good health. It is recommended that people spend approximately 20 minutes, three or four times a week, outside soaking up the sunshine. This should be sufficient for most people’s vitamin D3 needs.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants play a big role in keeping the skin healthy, and in preventing the possible development of skin cancer. Antioxidants help to eliminate free radicals, and to minimize the damage that they can do to otherwise healthy tissue. As always, the best source of antioxidants is a healthy diet. The best source of protective antioxidants is fresh, organically grown fruits and vegetables. It is important to stress that these fruits and vegetables should be organically grown, as pesticides and herbicides have been linked to a number of different types of cancer.

Supplements

In addition to a healthy diet, there are a number of supplements that can be taken to help prevent skin cancer. Vitamin E and Zinc are essential for healthy skin, and many people are sadly deficient in these crucial nutrients. Both can be taken as dietary supplements to augment a healthy diet. Omega-3 Fatty Acids are also important to maintaining a healthy epidermis, and in fighting off a variety of different cancers. Again, Omega-3 can be taken as a supplement to support a healthy diet.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen and topical moisturizers have become big business. While it is important to protect the skin from prolonged exposure to the sun and its ultra-violet rays, it is equally important to be careful about the type of sun block you use. Remember, like most cosmetics, sunscreens often contain chemicals and preservatives that are carcinogenic in themselves. If you have a particularly fair complexion, and feel that you need to use a topical sun block or moisturizer, be sure that it is wholly organic and that it does not contain any potentially hazardous chemicals. As always, read the labels carefully, and make an informed purchase.

As the incidents of skin cancer continue to rise, it is important for people to take preventative measures to protect themselves and their families. By adopting an all-natural approach to cancer prevention, it is possible to greatly reduce your risk for developing skin cancer.

Eat to Stay Healthy – Top Foods for Preventing Breast Cancer

Breast cancer statistics continue to rise around the world, with nearly 300,000 new cases of breast cancer being diagnosed each year in the United States alone. It is one of the most common forms of cancer affecting women, second only to skin cancer. It is estimated that one in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer at some time in their lives. The numbers are staggering. While the survival rates for breast cancer continue to improve, the best medicine remains prevention. Reducing the risk of developing breast cancer begins with a healthy diet. There are a number of foods that have been shown to significantly lower a woman’s risk for breast cancer, and they should become a part of every smart woman’s diet.

Flax Seed

Flax seed is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, lignans, and fiber. Studies have shown that the nutrients found in flax seed help to protect breast tissue from forming cancerous cells. Flax seed can be purchased whole or ground, and can be added salads to provide a nutty crunch to a meal or snack.

Garlic

Garlic is a natural miracle with a surprising number of health benefits. Whole garlic contains allium, a cancer fighting compound that has been proven to slow the growth of tumors and inhibit the colonization of cancerous cells. Studies have shown that garlic, as well as leeks, onions, scallions, and chives, can greatly reduce the risk of a number of different cancers, including breast cancer, colon, cancer, and prostate cancer. Raw garlic should be added to the diet, and as little as one whole clove a day can help to guard against cancer, but with garlic the more the better.

Brazil Nuts

Brazil nuts are rich in selenium, fiber, and cancer fighting phytochemicals. They boost the immune system, help to fight inflammation, and prevent the formation and growth of cancerous tumors. A handful of Brazil nuts a day, taken as a snack or mixed into a salad, can help prevent breast cancer and colon cancer.

Walnuts

Like Brazil nuts, walnuts are a powerful tool in the prevention of breast cancer. Walnuts are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, and can deliver the antioxidants that the body needs to protect itself from the free radicals that can cause cancer. As little as an ounce of walnuts every day can help to protect a woman’s body from breast cancer. Make sure your walnuts as with all nuts and seeds are organic and fresh. Walnuts because of their high omega-3 content can become rancid and their taste becomes bitter.

Dark Green Leafy Vegetables

Dark green leafy vegetables, such as kale, collard greens and spinach, are a vital part of any cancer preventative diet. These life giving vegetables are chock full of cancer fighting nutrients, including vitamin B, chlorophyll, natural phytochemicals and fiber. All of which help to protect the body from a variety of common cancers, including breast cancer.

Cruciferous Vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cabbage, contain significant amounts of sulfurophane and indoles. These naturally occurring compounds help to regulate cell growth, and are instrumental in fighting a wide range of cancers, including lymphoma, prostate cancer, bladder cancer, and breast cancer.

Chilli Peppers

Chilli peppers and Jalapeno peppers contain capsaicin. Capsaicin is the active component that makes hot peppers hot. But capsaicin does much more, it retards the growth rate of cancer cells and inhibits their ability to colonize and form tumors. Peppers are also rich in chlorophyll and carotenoids, both of which help to guard against the formation of cancerous cells. A taste for hot peppers can do more than spice up your meals, it can help you ward off breast cancer.

Breast cancer prevention begins with making some smart lifestyle choices that will reduce the risk of developing the disease. One of the most powerful tools in the fight against breast cancer is diet, and it is one area where every woman can take control of their lives and make a positive difference in their total health. The foods we have discussed should be a part of every woman’s cancer prevention arsenal.

Serotonin and Adrenaline Effect Weight Loss

Scientists at The Scripps Research Institute have discovered the details of a brain-to-body signaling circuit that enables weight loss independently of food intake. The weight-loss circuit is activated by combined signals from the neurotransmitters serotonin and adrenaline.

“Boosting serotonin signaling has been seen as a viable strategy for weight loss in people, but our results hint that boosting serotonin plus adrenaline should produce more potent effects — and there is already some evidence that that’s the case,” said the lead researcher for the study.

Serotonin signaling, which can be increased artificially by some diet and antidepressant drugs, has long been known to reduce weight. Until recently, scientists assumed that it does so largely by suppressing appetite and food intake. The principal researcher showed that serotonin changes food intake and fat levels via separate signaling pathways. “We could make the animals we studied lose fat even as they ate more,” she said. Her experiments found that serotonin’s food-intake-suppressing and weight-loss effects are separable.

Their most surprising discovery was that serotonin isn’t the sole driver of this weight-loss pathway, but works in concert with another neurotransmitter, a version of adrenaline. “That was a very interesting finding, especially since other studies suggest that these two neurotransmitters tend to oppose each other’s functions,” said researcher.

The human experience with weight-loss drugs already demonstrates such a fat-loss circuit. Serotonin-plus-adrenaline boosting therapies, the most prominent of which was fenfluramine-phentermine (“fen-phen”), have tended to do better at cutting weight than serotonin-boosting therapies alone. Unfortunately, the serotonin-boosting elements of these compounds have often been blamed for cardiovascular side effects — fenfluramine, for example, was banned by the FDA in 1997 — but in principle, future combination therapies could be designed to avoid producing such side effects.

– Cell Metabolism, Science Daily

Dr. Keith & Laurie Nemec comments on Serotonin and Adrenaline Effect Weight Loss:

The answer to weight loss is not a magic pill, potion or drug. Stop looking for the quick fix, the temporary patch job and get to the root of the problems so you can resolve it once and for all. Weight loss comes naturally as a byproduct of getting and STAYING healthy. There are no safe shortcuts in this journey as was found when the diet pill fen-phen was taken off the market because of cardiovascular risks and side effects. So how do you become healthy? It begins with 7 Basic Steps to Total Health which are:

Air-are you deep diaphragm breathing to oxygenate your body?
Water-are you drinking 32 ounces of distilled or reverse osmosis water per 50/lbs per body weight per day?
Sleep-are you sleeping 8.0 hours with 3.0 of them before midnight?
Exercise-are you exercising 30 minutes every day?
Fasting-are you fasting from the normal Standard American Diet (SAD)?
Prayer-are you taking the time throughout your day to regularly still your mind so you can hear the voice of God spoken into your heart? Food-are you consuming a diet of living/raw plant food which has the highest energy, bioelectricity, enzymes and bioavailable nutrient content to either maintain or restore your health? THIS IS THE BIG ONE IF YOU WANT TO EAT MORE AND WEIGH LESS.

An uncooked baked potato with skin 7oz is 154 calories. Cook that same potato is now 255 calories. What happened? Cooked food causes a tremendous amount of unnecessary calories. Unlike cooked potatoes, some of the starch in raw potatoes is not fully digested. This not fully digested starch passes through the small intestine into the large intestine, where it ends up being fermented by the beneficial bacteria that live in the colon. This fermentation of the starch increases the production of butyrate, a fatty acid that is associated with very beneficial effects on diseases of the colon including decreasing colon cancer risk.

The other fact to understand is that cooking increases blood sugar and sugar feeds inflammation, disease and cancer. A raw potato has a glycemic index of 25 while a cooked potato tops the chart at 105. More sugar means more calories, more weight, more inflammation and more disease. So what is the bottom line? Eat more living and raw plants in the form of vegetables, seeds, nuts, avocados and start cutting out the cooked starches like the bread, pasta, potato and rice. Make sure you are full from the bulk from the vegetables instead of the bulk from the starch or animal protein.

So, how do you eat more and weigh less? Start planting the 7 Basic Steps to Total Health every day and you will see them start to grow and eventually reap the harvest of Total Health of Body, Mind and Spirit.

The Shocking Secret About Soy’s Links to Cancer

Soybeans Over the last few decades the health benefits of soy, and soybean products, have been proclaimed far and wide around the world. Many people began to add soy products to their diet in the hopes of improving their overall health, and more particularly, fending off the onset of possible cancers. But recent research has revealed some startling facts, and the news is not good. Soy may not be as good for our health as we’ve been told. In fact, it may be downright detrimental to our total health, and it may actually cause cancer as opposed to preventing it. If you’re one of those people who have made soy a part of your diet, there are some important things you need to know.

Soybeans Contain Toxins and Enzyme Inhibitors

Soybeans contain toxins that may prove to be hazardous to a person’s overall health. Many foods have low levels of toxicity, however, those toxins are typically destroyed, or rendered harmless, when the food is properly prepared and cooked. Unfortunately, that does not apply to soy and soy byproducts.
Cooking does not destroy the toxins in soy, and apart from some specific preparation techniques (such as fermentation), does not render those toxins inactive. The toxins in soybeans remain intact, and act as enzyme inhibitors, interfering with the body’s natural digestive processes and preventing the proper digestion of the proteins we need to thrive. Moreover, recent studies have linked the enzyme inhibitors in soy to the risk for certain types of cancer, most particularly pancreatic cancer.

Soy Interferes With The Proper Absorption of Nutrients

Soybeans contain high levels of phytic acid, a compound that interferes with the natural digestive process. The phytic acid prevents the proper absorption of certain minerals, most notably magnesium, iron, calcium and zinc, which are vital to maintaining a healthy body. These mineral deficiencies have been linked to a number of chronic illnesses, including many types of cancer.

Soybeans, Genetic Modification, and Pesticides

The news about genetically modified crops is traveling fast, and many people are rightfully worried about the possible effects of GMOs on the environment and on their health. Soybean crops were one of the first genetically modified crops, and today it is almost impossible to find wholly organic soy products. Most of these crops are also highly contaminated with pesticides. Exposure to these pesticides has not only been linked to cancer, but to a variety of auto immune disorders.

What’s Hidden in the Bean Itself?

Far from being a health food, soybeans actually contain a variety of substances that adversely affect the overall health of the body. For example, they are full of nitrites which have been proven to increase the risk for many different types of cancer. Soy products also contain goitrogens, which interfere with the thyroid gland and disrupt the natural production of the hormones the body needs to regulate itself and to maintain its overall health. Certain protein strands found in soybeans have also been shown to cause an enlargement of the pancreas, and to lead to fatty acid deposits in the liver.

The Myth About Soy

For years we have been told that soy, and soy byproducts, were full of health benefits. As proof we were told to look at Asian cultures who had significantly fewer instances of disease and considerably longer lifespans. What wasn’t being made clear, was that Asian cultures only began adding it to their diet after they discovered that fermentation destroyed the toxins hidden in the bean, and that only through fermentation could the bean’s scant nutrients be made bio-available. They understood that soybeans were filled with hazardous toxins, and only included certain fermented soy products, such as miso and tempeh, in their diet.

The myth of soy has lasted for decades now, and many people have mistakenly added them to their diet as a way of promoting good health. But the truth will out, as they say, and it has now become apparent that soy is not a wonder food. For the prevention of cancer, as well as the prevention of a host of other ailments, it is recommended that people eliminate soy, and soybean byproducts, from their diet.