Dr. Gonzalez recommended a chiropractor in Atlanta. He told Mary to address the neck issue, and then they would tackle her immune system. “I’d gone to umpteen doctors, and they’d all told me, ‘We can’t see anything wrong with your neck.’ And I’m like, ‘I am in excruciating pain. How could nothing be wrong with my neck and have all that pain?’ And Dr. Gonzalez immediately picked up on that. We went from there, and I was a patient of his for 20 years.”

Mary is the Artistic Director of Swander Woman Productions, a theatre troupe that performs dramas about food, farming, and the wider rural environment. She also is the Executive Director of AgArts, a nonprofit designed to imagine and promote healthy food systems through the arts. She hosts AgArts from Horse & Buggy Land, a podcast focused on sustainability, the Amish, and rural living.

An award-winning author, Swander has published books of poetry, non-fiction, drama, and individual pieces in The Nation, The New York Times Magazine, The New Yorker, and Poetry.

Now, Mary has written the authorized biography, The Maverick M.D.: Dr. Nicholas Gonzalez and His Fight for a New Cancer Treatment, available from New Spring Press.

Dr. Gonzalez graduated Phi Beta Kappa and magna cum laude from Brown, with a degree in English literature. He worked as a journalist for Time and New York Magazine for eight years during the 1970s, focusing on health-related issues. It was during this time that he became interested in medicine and scientific research.

Dr. Gonzalez’s postgraduate premed work was at Columbia. He earned a medical degree from Cornell in 1983 and worked at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center while in med school. His internship in internal medicine was at Vanderbilt.

“He could clear up pancreatic cancer patients in record time, but autoimmune people are actually more difficult to deal with,” Mary contended. “That’s why we had a long relationship. … I was fascinated by what he did, how incredibly intelligent he was, and how he researched everything – not, you know, wave their hands over you or had crystals or something.”

As a medical student, Dr. Gonzalez learned of the work of a dentist, William Donald Kelley. The latter claimed to have cured his liver and pancreatic cancer with a nutritional therapy – a combination of pancreatic enzymes, minerals, vitamins, and coffee enemas.

“[Dr. Gonzalez] was an Ivy League physician, a scientist very much within the framework of conventional medicine in his training,” Mary said. “He found a different method that was more effective, and he tried to have it tested. A lot of criticism about alternative treatments is they haven’t been through clinical trials, and they don’t want to be tested. He did, and stepped forward and said, ‘I want to be tested; I want this to go through trials, the normal testing apparatus. And if it fails, then I’ll quit.’ I really respected that.”

While researching the book, Mary came to understand how Dr. Gonzalez had “put himself out there” with his belief in pancreatic enzymes and nutritional therapy as a viable treatment for cancer. “He sincerely believed in this, that he was onto something,” she added. “He really wanted to help people. He was a dedicated physician who wanted to cure cancer.”

Within The Maverick M.D., Mary gives the reader a solid grounding of the Gonzalez Protocol and why it is a different paradigm. “This is a total revamping of your entire constitution. It’s looking at the human body as a holistic system and trying to put it into balance,” she said.

“I think we should look at Dr. Gonzalez as a healer. I’ve been talking about him being a very well-credentialed conventional doctor, to begin with. As you read the book, you’ll see step-by-step, he began to enter into a spiritual realm. I think he had abilities beyond most human beings and that he was connecting to a higher force.

“There’s a spiritual dimension to the program that, if you didn’t know who this man was, you might not see that right away,” Mary noted. “I did not see it right away as a patient. I began to get my eyes open to his abilities. It’s a wonderful read as a medical read, but it’s also a wonderful read as a portrait of a true healer. Your eyes will be opened about all sorts of possibilities, medical and spiritual.”

The post ‘The Maverick M.D.’ a literary tour de force of Dr. Nicholas Gonzalez appeared first on Cancer Tutor.

Juicing has gotten a lot of attention in the past decade with every other celebrity and influencer touting their juicing cleanses and their “expertise.”

You can even find stores that have juice bars and refrigerated shelves lined with fresh-pressed colorful juices. If going to the store is not for you, some companies deliver to your front doorstep for a cost.  

So, what’s with all the hype, and how healthy is juicing for you? We will cannonball into the many ins and outs of juicing to answer all your juicy-juicing questions.

• Belinda Alonso, Utopia Wellness: Juicing for Cancer

What is juicing? 

Juicing requires using a juicer or press that removes the fiber, skin, and pulp from fruits and vegetables and extracts all the juicy goodness out into a liquid form. It’s an easy way to get an added variety of fruits and vegetables into your diet. 

Do you eat an average of 5-9 servings of assorted fruits and vegetables daily? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), only 1 in 10 adults meet the recommended daily fruit and vegetable consumption. [1]

Most of us tend to eat the same mundane fruit and veggies every day. The best way to eat fruits and vegetables is the old-fashioned way, by mouth, but adding juice to a healthy diet can be a great way to incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet. 

Studies have shown that adding juice to a balanced diet offered a profound risk reduction of many diseases, such as cancers, neurodegenerative diseases, and cardiovascular diseases. This is because of the high antioxidant properties that they possess, which may help lower oxidative stressors. [2]

Benefits of juicing

Studies suggest that vegetable juice may help reduce blood pressure. This is because of the polyphenols that are in the juice may cause a decrease in blood pressure. Furthermore, nitrates and minerals also have essential roles in the anti-hypertensive (lowering blood pressure) effects of vegetable juice. [2]

Juicing has also shown to help aid in reducing cholesterol. Five different studies on several fruits and vegetables all showed levels of cholesterol were lowered after consuming the drinks. The studies were done on orange juice, acai-berry based juice, cloudy apple juice, cranberry juice, and tomato juice. [2]

Inflammation is related to many chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease. Studies related to cardiovascular inflammation done on certain juices such as tomato, plum, peach, and cranberry, all of which resulted in a reduction of cardiovascular-related inflammation. This is significant when we are talking about the prevention of chronic diseases because inflammation can be a big problem, and if not addressed in the long term, can develop into more pertinent diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and even cancer. [2]

Another noteworthy benefit is because since the insoluble fiber is removed in the juicing process, this can help aid in digestion. People who have issues digesting fruits and vegetables might find juicing can help them incorporate more of the nutrient-dense foods into their diets while giving their digestive systems a break. [3]

When you add juicing to a healthy diet it can be a powerful tool. There are many benefits to juicing, such as prevention of disease, lowering blood pressure, lowering cholesterol, reducing inflammation, and aiding digestion. [2, 3] By adding a plethora of colorful fruits and vegetables to your juices, you are adding more raw minerals and nutrients to your overall diet, which you otherwise might not have.  

Risks of juicing

There are always risks to anything and everything – sewing, for instance. You may get impaled by sharp needle, which may carry a microscopic bacterium, and your finger might have to be amputated (dramatic, I know). So, what are the risks involved with juicing?

Let's talk about sugar, the natural kind found in all fruits and vegetables. Fruits contain more natural sugar then veggies, and too much sugar can be an issue, especially if you have diabetes. Most people would never sit down and eat 5 apples in one sitting, but those same 5 apples can easily fit into one glass when juiced. We shall do the math!

One apple has about 10 grams of sugar, and if you multiply that by 5 apples for a glass of fresh apple juice, this makes a total of 50 grams of sugar. [2] For further perspective, one 12oz can of Coca-Cola has 39 grams of sugar, so our same glass of apple juice contains more sugar than a Coke! [4] This amount of sugar can cause your blood sugar levels to spike, and if you have issues with insulin production, this can be a significant issue.

The takeaway from this is to limit the fruits you are adding to your juices. A good ratio of vegetables to fruits is 3 to 1, 3 vegetables to 1 fruit. You can also benefit from choosing low glycemic fruits such as green apples, berries, lemons, and limes. [5]

Did you know kale and spinach contain high levels of Vitamin K? However, if you are on a prescribed blood thinner, such as warfarin, high levels of Vitamin K can affect how a blood thinner works. [6] If you are on any medications, it's always important to check with your physician or pharmacist when making a dietary change for any potential problems.     

We need fiber in our diets. If you are only juicing and not eating any fruits or vegetables, you are missing out on essential nutrients and fiber.

“Fruit and vegetables are naturally loaded with dietary fiber. Fiber cannot be broken down by the body and mainly stays intact when it passes through your stomach, intestines, and colon. Fiber plays an essential role in maintaining good gut health (normalizing and maintaining bowel health). Fiber also lowers cholesterol levels, controls blood sugar levels, aids in achieving or maintaining a healthy weight, and may even help you live longer.” [7] 

A study was conducted in 2016 on the relationship between breast cancer and fiber intake. Twenty-four articles examined the link between dietary fiber and breast cancer. “A total of 51,939 cases and 3,662,421 participants were included. The analysis showed a protective association between dietary fiber intake and breast cancer risk, and the danger could be reduced by 12%. Furthermore, the data showed each 10 g/d increment of dietary fiber intake was associated with a 4% risk reduction.” [8]

• Breast Cancer and a high-fiber diet

Which type of juicer is best? 

The two most common types of juicers are centrifugal and masticating juicers. Both can be found in stores and online, and you can typically find a juicer that will fit into any budget with pricing anywhere from $50 to more than $2,000.

So which one is better? That is up to the consumer (and your budget), but we will hit the highlights regarding both types of juicers and also give our recommendations. 

Centrifugal Juicer

• Produce is fed into the hopper and ground to a pulp.
• Spins at high speed, and the motion forces the juice away from the pulp.
• The high speed can cause the juice to oxidize quickly, so you will want to consume the juice immediately.
• The high speeds can cause friction heating the juices, and this can cause loss of some of the live enzymes.
• On the cheaper end of the budget spectrum [5]

Masticating Juicer

• Masticating means to “chew, grind, or knead”
• Works at lower speeds than a centrifugal juicer preventing the juice from picking up any heat (as with centrifugal juicers).
• Is very good for juicing leafy greens and vegetables efficiently 
• Will yield more juice with less produce 
• Since it works at lower speeds and does not oxidize as much, juice can be stored in an airtight container refrigerated for up to 24 hours.  [5]
• Some masticating juicers add a hydraulic press (cold press) which helps in extracting the maximum amount of juice, as well as other benefits.

Juicer options

• Norwalk Juicer, Model 290 (masticating / cold press)
• Omega NC800HDS Juicer Extractor (masticating)
• Breville 800JEXL Juice Fountain Elite (centrifugal)

To-do’s of juicing

Now that we know all the benefits and risks of juicing, it’s time to talk about best practices. Anytime you want to succeed at anything, you have to be in the “know-how,” and we are here to serve it to you on a silver platter.  

Do eat fruits and veggies in their whole forms first

We talked before about how fruits and vegetables are best when consumed in their whole form, including the fiber. With that said, adding juice to your diet is a great way to add those extra nutrients you otherwise would not get. Simply enjoy them alongside your meals. 

Do wash your produce

This also goes without saying, but you always want to wash your produce. When you buy your juices at the supermarket, they are pasteurized, killing any bacteria and parasites that might be harmful to you. Even if it's organic, you still are making an unpasteurized drink, and you are at a higher risk of consuming parasites and bacteria that are living on the food. 

Simply soak your produce in cold water mixed with white distilled vinegar (10 cups water to 1 cup vinegar) for a few minutes, scrub with a vegetable brush, rinse, and dry. [5] A good soak and scrub can save you from time spent in the bathroom.

Do refrigerate your juices

If you are not consuming your juicy goodness right away, you can store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 24 hours. Freezing is another option as well. 

Do be heavy on your veggies

Not to sound like a broken record, but do be heavy on your veggies. Fruits contain more sugar than vegetables, so a good ratio is the three vegetables to 1 fruit rule.  Fruits are a great source of antioxidants and help sweeten up your drinks, just try not to overdo it. [2]

Do buy organic if you can

“Nearly 70 percent of the fresh produce sold in the U.S. contains residues of potentially harmful chemical pesticides, according to EWG’s analysis of the latest test data from the federal Department of Agriculture.” [9]

It may not always be available, but when possible, you should try to stick to organic produce. An excellent example of why you want to stick to organic foods is kale. Kale, which is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, is a commonly juiced vegetable and ranks number three on the EWG’s dirty dozen list this year. 

“In USDA’s most recent tests, the pesticide most frequently detected on kale was DCPA, sold under the brand name Dacthal. The Environmental Protection Agency classifies DCPA as a possible human carcinogen, and in 2009 the European Union banned it.” [9]

• When to buy organic vs. non-organic

Juicing recipes

If you are just getting started with juicing and need a little guidance, we have your back with a few of our fail-proof recipes. However, the great thing about juicing is you really can't mess it up and should try adding a variety of different fruits and vegetables to find what best suits your taste buds and your body.

The Energizer
6 Carrots
1 lemon
1 Inch of Ginger
2 Green Apples
1 Beet (you can even juice the top if you want more added nutrients)
Wash and juice all the above in your favorite juicer, no peeling required.

Super Greens
6 leaves of Kale
2 Cups Spinach
2 Green Apples
1 Inch of Ginger
1 Lemon
1 Cucumber 
Wash and juice all the above in your favorite juicer, no peeling required.

FAQs

Cancer protocols

The majority of alternative protocols, such as the Gerson diet, the Cellect Budwig diet, Chris Wark's Square One program, the Bob Beck protocol, along with many others, have juicing as an essential component in their treatments. Many holistic clinics also include some form of juicing.

The post Benefits of juicing during cancer treatment appeared first on Cancer Tutor.

Even more sobering, about 42,170 women are expected to die this year from breast cancer. There is good news: Overall, the breast cancer death rate has decreased by 1.3% per year from 2013 to 2017. The decreases are thought to be, according to the American Cancer Society, the result of treatment advances and earlier detection through screening.

Still, for women in the U.S., breast cancer death rates are higher than those for any other cancer, besides lung cancer.

About 1 in 8 women (about 12%) will develop invasive breast cancer throughout her lifetime. As of January 2020, more than 3.5 million women have a history of breast cancer, including those currently being treated and those who have finished treatment.

(And guys, don’t think it can’t happen to you. The ACS predicts about 2,620 new cases of invasive breast cancer are expected to be diagnosed in men this year. A man’s lifetime risk of breast cancer is about 1 in 883.)

However, despite the facts and figures, research continues to shine a light of hope. Everything from treatments to diet is being studied, and yes – food can make a difference. A recent study that examined dietary fiber intake and breast cancer showed the risk could be reduced by 12%.

So, if you are what you eat, what should that be (hint: bone up on the Mediterranean diet)? We’ll dig into that and also share why cruciferous veggies should become a staple in your everyday meal-planning.

As we dive in, remember that less than 15% of women who get breast cancer have a family member diagnosed with it. However, a woman’s risk of breast cancer nearly doubles if she has a first-degree relative (mother, sister, daughter) who has been diagnosed.

Now is the time to begin making a difference in your life. Take the initiative to do something, rather than risk becoming another statistic. Let’s take that first step together … 

What the science says

A 1994 case-control study of 451 women in Australia examined the risk of breast cancer to dietary fiber. There were significant reductions in relative risk with increased intake of dietary fiber. The study provided strong support that foods rich in dietary fiber may protect against breast cancer. [1]

In 2016, Dr. Manas Kotepui, Ph.D., reviewed 111 epidemiological studies that focused on nutritional risk factors including dietary fat, meat, fiber, and alcohol, and intake of phytoestrogen, Vitamin D, iron, and folate associated with breast cancer. The evidence suggests that diet may be associated with breast cancer risk depending on the amount and type of foods consumed. Higher intake of foods containing n-3 PUFA, Vitamin D, phytoestrogen, fiber, and folate, together with lower intake of saturated fat, n-6 PUFA, grilled meat, and alcohol, may be beneficial. [2]

With results released in 2016, Harvard research scientist Maryam Farvid examined fiber intake during adolescence and early adulthood to breast cancer risk. 90,534 women completed a dietary questionnaire in 1991; 2,833 invasive breast cancer cases were documented during 20 years of follow-up. The findings support the hypothesis that higher fiber intakes reduce breast cancer risk and suggest that consumption during adolescence and early adulthood may be particularly important. [3]

Another 2016 study, Dietary fiber intake, and risk of breast cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis of epidemiological studies, examined 24 articles on the relationship between dietary fiber and breast cancer. A total of 51,939 cases and 3,662,421 participants were included. The analysis showed a protective association between dietary fiber intake and breast cancer risk, and the danger could be reduced by 12%. Furthermore, the data showed each 10 g/d increment of dietary fiber intake was associated with a 4% risk reduction. [4]

More recently, dietary guidelines for breast cancer patients have failed to address adequate nutritional intakes of macro- and micronutrients that may improve patients’ nutritional status.

Nutritionist Ana Teresa Limon-Miro led a review of the PubMed and Biomed Central databases across 15 years (2002-17) concerning dietary guidelines for breast cancer patients and the potential impact of a personalized, nutrient-specific diet on patients’ nutritional condition during and after cancer treatment.

The results, taken from five studies covering 2,622 women, indicated breast cancer patients should maintain healthy body weight and lean mass.

Limon-Miro notes that the specifics of nutritional therapy should be based on the patients’ nutritional status, dietary habits, schedule, activities, and cultural preferences for sustained success.

Adequate dietary intakes of food-based macro- and micronutrients rich in β-carotene and Vitamins A, E, and C can both prevent deterioration in breast cancer patients’ nutritional health and improve their overall prognosis. [5]

A review of research published in the October 1996 issue of the Journal of the American Dietetic Association showed that 70% or more of the clinical studies found a link between cruciferous vegetables and protection against cancer. [6] 

A 2007 study, however, expressly noted: “evidence of an inverse association between cruciferous vegetable intake and breast or prostate cancer in humans is limited and inconsistent.” [7]

The anticancer role of the Mediterranean diet

Tiffany M. Newman, with Wake Forest University’s Department of Cancer Biology, reported in 2019 that among 2,034 breast cancer patients studied, the Mediterranean diet is considered one of the healthiest of all dietary patterns. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet protects against diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. A Mediterranean diet was associated with a lower risk for women with all subtypes of breast cancer, and a Western diet pattern was associated with higher risk.

Newman noted epidemiological data supports the impact of dietary pattern on breast cancer risk. Western diet consumption elevates breast cancer risk, while the use of a Mediterranean diet reduces breast cancer risk. She proposed that regulation of the gut and mammary microbiome may be a key influencer on the anticancer role of the Mediterranean diet. Current research detailing the gut microbiome suggests a potential mechanism for dietary influence on cancer risk through inflammation. Restoring balance to the gut microbiome may prove a viable option for the reduction of diet-mediated cancer risks and prognosis factors. [8]

We know that bacteria thrive within us, but did you know bacteria also live in a woman’s breast tissue – the mammary microbiome, mentioned earlier? Researchers believe the microbes may have an effect on breast cancer, according to Gregor Reid, a professor of microbiology and immunology at Western University.

Reid and his team analyzed bacterial DNA found in breast tissue samples from 58 women who were undergoing lumpectomies or mastectomies for either benign or cancerous tumors. They also studied 23 healthy women who had undergone breast reductions or enhancements. The data showed that women with breast cancer had higher levels of some types of bacteria, including Enterobacteriaceae, staphylococcus, and bacillus. Women without cancer had higher levels of other types, such as lactococcus and streptococcus. [9]

In April 2020, a systematic review and meta‐analysis of prospective studies relating to fiber consumption and breast cancer incidence were released by the American Cancer Society. The authors identified 17 cohort studies, 2 nested case-control studies, and 1 clinical trial study. The results showed total fiber consumption was associated with an 8% lower risk of breast cancer.

The researchers, again led by Harvard’s Maryam Farvid, also found that it was only soluble fiber (a substance able to be dissolved, especially in water). Soluble fiber is the most substantial element in foods like beans, lentils, nuts, oatmeal, and peas that had a significant association with reduced breast cancer rates. (Soluble fiber slows digestion and becomes a gel-like substance in the colon.) Future research questions should address the decreased breast cancer incidence as a function of time adhering to a fiber-centric diet.

Insoluble fiber – found in whole grains and cannot be dissolved by the body – also was suggested to reduce the risk of cancer. The effect, however, was not statistically significant. (Both soluble and insoluble fiber are found in varying levels in most foods containing fiber.)

“Our study contributes to the evidence that lifestyle factors, such as modifiable dietary practices, may affect breast cancer risk,” said Dr. Farvid. “Our findings provide research evidence supporting the American Cancer Society dietary guidelines, emphasizing the importance of a diet rich in fiber, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.” [10]

Why cruciferous veggies are good for you

What do kale, arugula, and Brussels sprouts have in common? Aside from being the basis for trend-setting vegetable recipes, they’re all delicious cruciferous vegetables and pack a potent 1-2 punch for nutrition and fighting inflammation.

Fun fact: The name “cruciferous” is an informal classification for members of the mustard family and comes from the Latin Cruciferae, meaning “cross-bearing” because the four petals resemble a cross.

Benefits of cruciferous vegetables:

• Contain Cancer-Fighting Compounds
• Reduce Inflammation
• Regulate Blood Sugar
• Promote Weight Loss
• Enhance Heart Health
• Promote Estrogen Balance

While these veggies grow in all different colors, shapes, and sizes, they share several nutritional benefits. Most cruciferous veggies are rich in vitamins and minerals such as folate and Vitamin K. Dark green cruciferous veggies also are an excellent source of Vitamins A and C. They’re also rich in phytonutrients – plant-based compounds that may help to lower inflammation and reduce the risk of developing cancer.

Cruciferous vegetables include:

• Arugula
• Broccoli
• Brussels sprouts
• Cabbage
• Cauliflower
• Collard greens
• Kale
• Mustard greens
• Radish
• Rutabaga
• Turnip
• Watercress

Cruciferous vegetables are rich in fiber and low-calorie. Fiber is an essential nutrient to incorporate if weight loss is the goal, as it helps keep you fuller longer.

Cruciferous veggies are also good sources of phytonutrients, which are plant-based compounds that may help lower inflammation and reduce the risk of developing cancer.

In vitro studies have shown sulforaphane, a phytochemical found in cruciferous vegetables, can stimulate enzymes in the body that detoxify carcinogens before they damage cells. [11]

Also present in cruciferous vegetables are glucosinolates. These chemicals are not only responsible for the aroma and flavor of these plants, but they also have been shown to have anticancer effects. According to the National Cancer Institute, studies in rats and mice have demonstrated that indoles and isothiocyanates, the compounds that form from broken down glucosinolates, protect cells from DNA damage, inactivate carcinogens, and have antibacterial and antiviral effects. [12]

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends adult women should eat 2.5 cups of vegetables per day; adult men should have 3 cups. One cup of cooked or raw broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower counts as 1 cup of vegetables. Two cups of leafy greens, like kale or arugula, count as 1 cup from the vegetable group. [13]

Your total vegetable intake doesn’t have to come from cruciferous vegetables. Still, they should be incorporated daily for maximum health benefits.

The American Cancer Society recommendations for nutrition and physical activity for cancer prevention include:

• Achieve and maintain a healthy weight throughout life.
• Adopt a physically active lifestyle.
• Consume a healthy diet with an emphasis on plant-based foods
• Limit the amount of processed and red meats:
  • Eat at least 2.5 cups of vegetables and fruits a day.
  • Choose whole grains instead of refined grain products.
  • Drink no more than 1 alcoholic drink per day (women).

Summary of Science

Overall, the connection between reducing the risk of breast cancer and a high-fiber diet is rooted in the nutritional research. In 2020, an American Cancer Society review of 20 different studies related to fiber consumption and breast cancer incidence shows total fiber consumption is associated with an 8% lower risk of breast cancer.

A key ingredient to maximizing a healthy diet is cruciferous vegetables, which have nutritional and inflammation-fighting value. These veggies also have phytonutrients and glucosinolates, which have been shown to have anticancer effects.

Cancer Tutor encourages patients to discuss diet and nutritional goals with their doctor and nutritionist. Together you can develop a sustainable plan that will address individual needs for a healthier lifestyle.

FAQs

The post Breast cancer and a high-fiber diet appeared first on Cancer Tutor.

We know what you’re thinking: We have lost our minds. But no, this is how our ancestors ate in the Paleolithic Era, which dates between 2.5 million to 10,000 years ago.

The Paleolithic diet (or the paleo diet) is also known by several monikers – caveman diet, hunter-gatherer diet, or stone-age diet. The idea behind the food is to mimic what our ancestors ate. So, you would eat what a hunter-gatherer would be able to find.

However, dietary habits have changed vastly over just the past century. (And they continue to get worse with the abundance of convenient and overly processed foods.) Plain and simple, we were not designed to eat like this.

The paleo diet is a way to throw it back, way back, to a time before McDonald’s, Taco Bell, and Cheetos. Ditch those foods to get back to whole foods – fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and proteins that our bodies crave and thrive off of.

The great thing about eliminating processed foods is you are no longer consuming the chemicals, additives, and preservatives in processed foods. Anything man-made is a “no go” on the diet. Hence, the menu tends to be a bit on the expensive side; you’re ditching cheap processed foods for whole, organic non-GMO foods.

Technically, the paleo diet is a low carb diet. It eliminates grains, starchy vegetables, and legumes. However, paleo is not as strict as the ketogenic and Atkins diets. You do not have to monitor ketones, macronutrients, carb count, or worry about the keto flu.

The paleo diet allows many of the fruits and vegetables not allowed on either keto or Atkins diets. You do not have to calculate daily macronutrients or track your carbohydrates. Instead, apples, bananas, carrots, and many other options that are too carb-dense for the other diets are OK to eat.

The paleo diet can be traced back to gastroenterologist Walter Voegtlin, who penned The Stone Age Diet in 1975. The modern version of the diet is thanks to Dr. Loren Cordain, who wrote The Paleo Diet in 2002.

The diet has a considerable following and remains one of the most popular diets today. A quick search produces hundreds of articles and blogs on paleo, including guides, meal plans, and more books. In fact, “paleo” had an average google search of 49,000 per month in 2019. 

What science says about paleo

The paleo diet encourages a whole food diet. It consists of lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and healthy fats. It’s no wonder why the paleo diet is healthy if done correctly. The food primes the body to prevent chronic health issues such as inflammatory/autoimmune disorders, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

Inflammation is a huge factor when you are dealing with any chronic illness. “Worldwide, 3 of 5 people die due to chronic inflammatory diseases like stroke, chronic respiratory diseases, heart disorders, cancer, obesity, and diabetes.” [2] A recent study showed that the paleo diet, along with exercise, patients exhibited a promising reduction of inflammation after a 4-week period. [3]

 Research has shown the importance of the gut microbiome in supporting the body’s immune system. For context, combating and preventing inflammation supports a healthy gut microbiome.

“The human microbiome is composed of bacteria, archaea, viruses and eukaryotic microbes that reside in and on our bodies. These microbes have tremendous potential to impact our physiology, both in health and in disease. They contribute to metabolic functions, protect against pathogens, educate the immune system, and, through these basic functions, affect directly or indirectly most of our physiologic functions.” [4]

The spotlight on ‘urbanization'

According to Segata et al., “By contrasting the gut microbiomes of African hunter-gatherer and European subjects, a new study reveals that urbanization is associated with a loss of microbial organisms and genes. What will be the consequences of the lost biodiversity in the sanitized, western-diet world?” [5] This alludes to the idea that, over time, our continual dietary habit changes have decreased the amount of healthy bacterial populations in the GI tract microbiome.

When left unchecked, chronic inflammation and misregulated metabolic conditions can lead to more permanent diseases such as type 2 diabetes. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) found that in 2020, 34.2 million people in the United States have diabetes. That is more than 1 in 10 people. [6] A 14-day study utilized the paleo diet to understand the effects on 14 patients with type 2 diabetes. The results were promising and included metabolic changes such as lowered triglycerides, improved glucose tolerance, and stable glucose levels. [7]

However, significant questions remain. Challenges to address from this study include long term effects of the paleo diet and the inability to continue the dietary regimen. Because the paleo diet is so restrictive, it may only be a short-term solution. Our paleolithic ancestors had significantly shorter life spans, so there may be some conflicting evidence on whether or not they were healthier in the long term. Thus, the study gives some perspective and future directions regarding possible links between changes in diet, metabolism, and chronic disease progression.

An indicator of metabolic disorders is high blood pressure. In fact, “the number of Americans at risk for heart attack and stroke just got a lot higher. An estimated 103 million U.S. adults have high blood pressure, according to new statistics from the American Heart Association. That’s nearly half of all adults in the United States.” [8]

“We’ve made incredible inroads in cardiovascular disease,” said Benjamin, a professor of cardiology at Boston University’s School of Public Health. “There’s a real focus on improving health by adopting a healthy lifestyle, not just waiting to develop disease before one focuses on risk factors.”

High blood pressure is a common metabolic condition that many people are treating daily with medications. To better understand the effects of nutritional changes on metabolism, a three-month randomized study was done on 13 patients with type 2 diabetes to compare the paleo diet and a diabetic diet.

In addition to positive changes in metabolism, the researchers found that patients on the paleolithic diet had improved blood pressure levels. [9] Whether you are taking a diuretic, beta-blocker, ACE inhibitor, or some other form of blood pressure medicine, a diet change may be able to help. (You should never change your dietary regimens or medications without consulting your physician first.)

Moderation and balance with the paleo diet

Chronic inflammation and metabolic disorders increase cancer risk. In some cases, as discussed above, diet showed promise when used as a tool to prevent progression on disease. However, the main problem with the paleo diet is the emphasis on meat.

“Based on at least six cohorts, summary results for the consumption of unprocessed red meat of 100 g day-1 varied from nonsignificant to statistically significantly increased risk (11% for stroke and for breast cancer, 15% for cardiovascular mortality, 17% for colorectal and 19% for advanced prostate cancer).” [10]

Examining the above evidence – due to the loose guidelines of the paleo diet – red meat potentially could cause harm to cancer patients. The paleo diet is also known to restrict some very healthy foods like legumes. This restriction may make it hard for vegetarians to incorporate and maintain the menu while keeping an optimal protein intake and getting a variety of micronutrients. Moderation and balance are essential with any diet, and there needs to be a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables incorporated to provide essential micronutrients.

Pluses:

• If you are not consuming processed foods, you are more likely to have a healthier lifestyle

Clinical studies have reported the following promising preliminary results:

• Lower triglycerides, improved glucose tolerance, and stable glucose levels, which is a great thing, especially if you have diabetes [7]
• Improved blood pressure [9]
• Reduces inflammation (anti-inflammatory) [3]
• Studies have also shown an increase in the microbiome, which promotes a healthy gut. [5]

Minuses:

• It can be costly
• Long-term commitment to the diet is difficult 
• Our ancestors had significantly shorter life spans so there may be some conflicting evidence on whether or not they were healthier long-term
• The paleo diet restricts some very healthy foods like legumes, which would make it extremely hard for vegetarians to maintain the diet
• The menu emphasizes meat products. High consumption of meat, especially red meat, increases mortality and colorectal cancer risk [11]

There are many ways to do the paleo diet since there are no strict guidelines. If approached the wrong way, however, the menu could potentially be unhealthy. Far from an end-all, be-all list, these are foods on a general paleo diet:

Paleo Diet Food List

•   Lean meat, such as chicken, turkey, pork, lean beef, and buffalo (bison)
•   Fish
•   Seafood
•   Fresh fruit
•   Non-starchy vegetables, such as lettuce, asparagus, green beans, broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and spinach
•   Nuts, like almonds, walnuts, cashews, pecans, and pistachios (no peanuts)
•   Seeds, like pumpkin and sunflower
•   Eggs
•   Plant-based oils, such as olive, walnut, grapeseed, and coconut oil

What Can’t You Eat on the Paleo Diet?

• Grains, such as oats, wheat, barley, and rice — which means no cereal, bread, pasta, bagels, crackers, or granola bars
• Starchy vegetables, such as potatoes and corn, as well as potato and corn chips, tortillas, and popcorn
• Legumes or beans — so no peanuts or peanut butter; no soy foods, such as soy milk, tofu, or edamame; no hummus or beans of any kind
• Dairy products — so no milk, yogurt, cheese, or ice cream
• High-fat meats, such as salami, bologna, pepperoni, hot dogs, ground meat, rib roast, and ribs
• Sugars, such as in soda, honey, jam or jelly, syrup, candy, cakes, cookies, and sports drinks
• Processed foods or trans fats, such as doughnuts, french fries, fruit snacks, or macaroni and cheese
• Salty foods, such as crackers, chips, pretzels, soy sauce, added-salt foods, or sports drinks [12]

As always, it’s essential to work with your physician if you are making dietary changes, especially if you have an underlying health condition.

Conclusion

When compared to the current Standard American Diet (S.A.D), the paleo diet has promising attributes to encourage better eating habits. (The menu nixes convenient and overly processed foods.) Prevention is key with any chronic health issue. A better dietary regimen can prevent many metabolic diseases.

Studies have shown that the paleo diet has the potential to help with metabolic and some chronic disorders, such as high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes. Still, the diet is not a“one size fits all” and could be potentially unhealthy. Overconsumption of red meat is a concern and can contribute to certain cancers like colorectal and prostate cancers. Long term effects of the paleo diet are also unknown.

If you have an underlying health condition, and plan to change your dietary habits, consult with your physician before making any changes.

FAQ

The post The Paleo Diet and Cancer appeared first on Cancer Tutor.

Wow! Is it a new medication? A new therapy?

No. 

Instead, it is something that you have been using since the day you were born. Something that has the power to injure and to heal – to cause disease or to rebalance the body and put it on a healing track. Something that the majority of people use as a pleasure, but not as the powerful tool that it is.

What is it?

The food you choose to put on the end of your fork!

Several times a day, you are put in the driver’s seat of choosing how to fuel your body. 

Within minutes, hours, months and years, what we consume- actually NOT what we consume, but what we absorb- becomes our hair, skin, blood, organs, bones, etc. and nothing can be more explanatory than “garbage in, garbage out”…. or should I say “garbage in, poor health out?”

With the discovery of epigenetics or the study of external factors that switch on and off genes, also came the current paradigm that 90-95% of cancers are not caused by genetics, but rather by our lifestyle choices- what we choose to think, breathe, do and eat. [1]

Currently, there are several theories as to why cancer happens. Too many toxins in and not enough out over time seem to be the underlying theme. In fact, toxicity and inflammation currently seem to be at the root of just about every disease process. [2]

“With the discovery of epigenetics or the study of external factors that switch on and off genes, also came the current paradigm that 90-95% of cancers are not caused by genetics, but rather by our lifestyle choices- what we choose to think, breathe, do and eat.”

Laurie Boucino, RN

Natural Healing Center, Myrtle Beach

Basically, your body is like a glass. It gets filled with inflammatory foods, a sedentary lifestyle and daily exposures like smoking and poor air quality. On the flip-side, the opposite is true: antioxidant, anti-inflammatory foods, daily body movement, meditation, etc. help to decrease the volume in the glass. If the glass gets close to full, you display an array of symptoms. If the glass overflows, you may have an unwanted diagnosis on your hands.

Most diseases can be viewed using this model. When the body is toxic and out of balance – disease. When the body receives less toxicity and gets detoxified regularly, balance can be restored and the healing capabilities of the body can be miraculous!

While there are several pillars to address as you get the body more into balance, food is an immediate and frequently used method that can “make or break” the effectiveness of your other therapy choices. Also, as was mentioned earlier, it is not truly what we eat, we have to take it a step further in saying that it is what we absorb that helps or hurts the body. That being said, colonics, coffee enemas, heavy metal status, mouth health, and pH monitoring and balancing are very important therapies/testing that should be done and monitored to be sure that you are getting the most out of the quality food you choose to help you on your journey.

But there are so many theories on diet and one day you may hear that something is healing to the body and the next day it is a poison. What should I eat is certainly a loaded question these days. 

Through decades of research and education, here are the basics of how we address food at the clinic and the theories behind these choices. 

The Budwig Dish

Dr. Johanna Budwig (1908-2003) was a German biochemist and pharmacist that held doctorates in both physics and chemistry. She determined that consuming a cottage cheese and flax oil combination helped to heal cell membranes and increase the voltage of cells (two issues with cancer cells).  While she has never been disproven, there is virtually no money in doing large scale testing to determine its unrivaled effectiveness. [3] However, components of the dish have proven to be not only health-enhancing but are also able to increase the effectiveness of Western medicine cancer therapies. [4]

Fresh Pressed Juices

The cornerstones of Gerson therapy are fresh-pressed juices and coffee enemas. Dr. Nicholas Gonzalez, a prominent New York-based medical doctor well known for his work with enzymes and cancer, states that because juice is a direct form of concentrated “pre-digested” vitamins, minerals and enzymes, it can be a “life-saving” therapy for late-stage cancer patients. This helps the body to “repair, rebuild and fight disease… even cancer” without requiring much energy from the body as the breakdown of whole foods does. As mentioned earlier, along with cancer comes a lot of inflammation. The antioxidants in the juice also help to douse the flames of that inflammation.

Modified Ketogenic Diet

People often think of the ketogenic diet as the “Atkins diet”, a once-popular low carbohydrate way of eating that encouraged a “bowl of meat and sausages” to be available in the refrigerator to munch on when you became hungry.

Knowing that sugar can cause and fuel cancer [5] and that a diet high in choline (found in milk, eggs, and meat) is pro-inflammatory and can lead to cancer [6] and that a vegetable-based diet is anti-inflammatory (therefore ultimately “anti-cancer”), developing an eating program that includes these parameters is a must.

A diet high in low glycemic vegetables including a small to moderate intake of low glycemic fruits as well as high-quality wild Atlantic caught fish a few times a week (Pacific wild-caught is no longer considered safe due to the Fukashima incident) is a no-brainer and can be easily taught and maintained by most.

Eat Right For Your Blood Type

Dr. Peter D’Adamo takes diet one step further. His research indicates that the protein that causes us to be one blood type or another (O, A, B or AB) also helps determine what foods the body can tolerate easier than others. [7] According to D’Adamo, “A chemical reaction occurs between your blood and the foods you eat. This reaction is part of your genetic inheritance. It is amazing but true that today, in the 21st century, your immune and digestive systems still maintain favoritism for foods that your blood type ancestors ate.” [8]

The premise of this is that foods contain lectins or specific proteins, and those proteins behave differently with each blood type, in essence, “burning cleanly” or “gunking up the system.” Limiting the diet to foods that “burn cleanly” for your blood type can have anti-inflammatory, body balancing effect as well.

High Vegetable Intake

As mentioned earlier, low glycemic vegetable juicing can be part of an easily assimilated, highly nutrient-dense diet, but the benefits don’t stop there.

Most vegetables are alkaline, meaning that they have a pH that is above the neutral of 7.0. This is helpful as inflammation and cancer are acidic conditions of the body. In the body, the blood “reigns supreme” which means that above all, the body will use its minerals to “buffer”, or increase the pH of the blood if the blood pH begins to decrease even slightly. (The body works to maintain blood pH between 7.35 and 7.45 at all costs)

Vegetables are also a great source of fiber which can help to remove unneeded hormones while increasing the removal of toxic substances as well.

Using all of these tools together and under the guidance of a knowledgeable health care practitioner provides the building blocks for healing.

So again, nutrient-dense, alkaline, anti-inflammatory, and body balancing, can you see how much power you have as you choose what to have for dinner – every breakfast, lunch, and dinner?!

Nutritional IVs: When Food is Not Enough

Maintaining a nutrient-rich environment within the body allows it to pick and choose from a wide array of vitamins, minerals, enzymes and phytonutrients which are all needed at different times and in different amounts in the healing and balancing process. 

Nutritional IVs are often used as an adjunct to oral food intake and supplements to nutrify the body and help it regain immune system “power” and “accuracy.”

The Myers cocktail and Myers Plus cocktail (mixes of calcium, magnesium, C & B vitamins and more) as well as alpha-lipoic acid, or ALA, a potent antioxidant, glutathione, the “master antioxidant” and high dose Vitamin C can be instilled directly into the vein in order to bypass the digestive system and provide higher blood levels without digestive side effects. These potent tools can be used to increase nutrient availability as well as to decrease inflammation and improve immune system capabilities.

Applying these principles alone at a time of high stress can be daunting. Working with a Certified Holistic Nutritionist versed in these diet components and how they work together is a must in order to help you make proper dietary decisions that will help your body to regain balance and ultimately do what it knows better than any practitioner – how to heal itself!

The post The gene light switch and cancer appeared first on Cancer Tutor.

Full Spectrum Nutrition supplies the body with nutrients, in the proper potency and proportion, to rebalance internal biochemistry to promote self-healing.

Cancer patients and gastrointestinal hurdles

A struggling digestive system will affect nutrition and is a common complication for cancer patients. The incidence has been estimated at between 40% and 80% and is a figure that varies according to the type of tumor, location, clinical stage, and treatment. This pathological condition is associated with a decreased response and tolerance to anti-neoplastic treatment, deterioration in the quality of life, more extended hospital stays and a higher cost of healthcare, as well as lower survival rates. These facts support the urgent need to prevent or treat nutritional deficiencies promptly in patients with cancer. (1)

The evaluation of the gastrointestinal system of the patient should be carried out at the beginning and throughout treatment since it will indicate the effectiveness of the nutritional intervention.

Factors used in designing a Full Spectrum Nutrition plan include:

• Functional Capacity
• Metabolic Stress
• Status of Patient Nutrition
• Presence of Co-Morbidities (Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, etc.)
• The type of anti-cancer management to which you are being subjected
• Body Mass Index
• The kind of cancer you're fighting against

A hostile environment for cancer cells

When it comes to the integrative treatment of cancer, it is critical to provide the body with the proper nutritional elements. At Verita Life, our goal is to improve your chances of beating the disease, while at the same time creating a hostile environment for cancer cells inside you. (2)

After determining your nutritional and immunological weaknesses and strengths, our experts — including a highly qualified nutritionist — will design a personalized dietary regime.

When all these factors are taken into account, our goal is for each patient will have the highest possible nutritional advantage against this disease.

A variety of healthy foods will be available at our clinic, with a delicious menu designed by our nutritionist, carefully prepared by our kitchen personnel and supervised by our expert chef.

Bon appétit, friends!

The post The importance of Full Spectrum Nutrition appeared first on Cancer Tutor.

“As we follow the seven key principles, the non-toxic cancer therapies, oxygenation, detoxification, strengthening the immune system, the emotional spiritual,” says Dr. Antonio Jimenez, “let's not forget about nutrition and of course, the microbiome. The infamous microbiome that starts in the gut but in reality, our body is a microbiome.

“It's an environment where we have to control our healthy and pathogenic viruses, bacteria and live in what's called a symbiosis or a state of health and regulation.

“I've seen tens of thousands of patients not only in Mexico but around the world, and I truly believe that only through these seven key principles can we give the patient the best opportunity of having a favorable outcome.”

You can learn more in Dr. Tony's new book, Hope for Cancer: 7 Principles to Remove Fear and Empower Your Healing Journey:

• Practical ways to fight cancer while maintaining your health.
• The latest non-toxic therapies that are having remarkable results.
• Patients who have overcome the odds using the methods in this book.
• The emotional and spiritual aspects of cancer and how it can unlock your healing journey.

Consider this your guidebook for removing the fear so often associated with a cancer diagnosis, and become empowered with knowledge!

Learn more about Hope4Cancer Treatment Centers.

The post ‘Hope for Cancer:’ How 7 Principles apply to microbiome appeared first on Cancer Tutor.

The culmination of Hope4Cancer Treatment Centers’ Founder and Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Antonio “Tony” Jimenez’s 30+ years of clinical experience with advanced-stage cancer patients, Hope for Cancer offers scientific insight and emotional empowerment to anyone suffering from the disease.

Based on Hope4Cancer’s unique healing program, The 7 Key Principles of Cancer Therapy, Hope for Cancer puts the exact method used to successfully treat thousands of cancer patients from all walks of life inside their two international clinics right into the reader’s hands. This groundbreaking, full-color manual breaks down complex therapies and clarifies ambiguous concepts with vivid imagery, easy-to-understand graphics, and practical action steps.

For anyone who understands the importance of creating and sustaining a healthy life physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, Hope for Cancer is a must-read — the ultimate guide for cancer prevention and treatment.

You can learn more in Dr. Tony's new book, Hope for Cancer: 7 Principles to Remove Fear and Empower Your Healing Journey:

• Practical ways to fight cancer while maintaining your health.
• The latest non-toxic therapies that are having remarkable results.
• Patients who have overcome the odds using the methods in this book.
• The emotional and spiritual aspects of cancer and how it can unlock your healing journey.

Consider this your guidebook for removing the fear so often associated with a cancer diagnosis, and become empowered with knowledge!

Learn more about Hope4Cancer Treatment Centers.

The post Hope4Cancer’s integrative approach to treatment appeared first on Cancer Tutor.

In his new book, Hope for Cancer: 7 Principles to Remove Fear and Empower Your Healing Journey, Dr. Tony offers the guiding principles of his Hope4Cancer Treatment Centers:

NON-TOXIC CANCER THERAPIES

• Treatment plans designed to substitute traditional methods with non-toxic therapies

IMMUNOMODULATION

• Biological vaccines to strengthen and stimulate the immune system, restoring its natural ability

FULL SPECTRUM NUTRITION

• A personalized meal plan developed by our in-house nutritionist, assuring balanced caloric intake

DETOXIFICATION

• Therapies to complement your personal treatment plan, removing harmful metals and minerals, and enhancing your overall recovery

OXYGENATION

• To simultaneously support the healing of healthy cells and prevent toxic buildup

RESTORE MICROBIOME

• Ensure bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa ecosystem is healthy and balanced

EMOTIONAL AND SPIRITUAL HEALING

• Therapies focusing on healing both the mind and spirit play an integral part in every Hope4Cancer treatment plan

Dr. Tony's 7 Principles of cancer therapy is the culmination of 25 years of real clinical experience with advanced-stage cancer patients from all over the world. Learn how treating cancer is not just about treating the symptoms of cancer, but going deeper into the core characteristics of all cancer and addressing the root cause of the disease.

The post Doctor’s ‘Hope for Cancer’ details personal quest appeared first on Cancer Tutor.

Dr. Antonio Jimenez explains that Hope4Cancer Treatment Centers “treat the person with cancer — not cancer in the person.

“Simply speaking is that we want to take a holistic approach to that disease process. Of course, that includes the physical, the emotional-spiritual, and the mental.

“That's when you truly are going to have sustaining, long-term benefits instead of just addressing the tumor in the person and not taking into account the person's emotional, spiritual, personality, thought processes, social environment and so forth.”

Dr. Tony's new book, Hope for Cancer: 7 Principles to Remove Fear and Empower Your Healing Journey, offers:

• Practical ways to fight cancer while maintaining your health.
• The latest non-toxic therapies that are having remarkable results.
• Patients who have overcome the odds using the methods in this book.
• The emotional and spiritual aspects of cancer and how it can unlock your healing journey.

Consider this your guidebook for removing the fear so often associated with a cancer diagnosis, and become empowered with knowledge!

Learn more about Hope4Cancer Treatment Centers.

The post Hope4Cancer’s individual treatment approach appeared first on Cancer Tutor.