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Archive for the ‘Breast Cancer’ Category

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Vibrant Exotic Anti-Cancer Gems

In Breast Cancer, Cancer, colon cancer on December 2, 2016 at 5:21 pm

When we talk about an anticancer diet, color is important.  If you have never tried dragon fruit or watermelon radishes you are in for a delectable  and beautiful surprise.   Both are powerful anticancer gems that you will want to see on your plate time and again.

 

dragon-4Dragon Fruit.  While we are all enjoying fall produce, many of us are clamoring for juicy fruit and vibrant colors on our plates.  Given that melons and berries are not abundant locally, nor tasty right now, I ventured to try something different–dragon fruit.  Granted this comes a long way to our table, but I figured what the heck—most fruit does this time of year so why not try something new.

Dragon fruit is an exotic and delicious fruit that is of the cactus family.  It hails from Mexico, South America, and Central America, as well as Thailand and Vietnam.dragon-2

If you have never tried or even heard of it, know that it is eye-catching and is loaded with power-nutrients.  The taste is a cross between kiwi and watermelon, with kiwi-like seeds. The variety I purchased was beet-red and stunning.

Dragon Fruit (also known as pitayas), is excellent for immune system health.  It’s high levels of vitamin C stimulate the activity of other antioxidants as they seek out and eliminate free radicals—which are linked to the development of cancer.

The seeds in dragon fruit are also high in omega 3 and 6 fatty acids that can help reduce triglycerides and cardio issues.  Compounds in dragon fruit can also help with the removal of toxic heavy metals and protect eyesight.  Dragon fruit is high in lycopene, which can lower the risk of prostate and other cancers.  In particular, studies have shown that compounds in dragon fruit inhibit CP450 forms, which are key enzymes in cancer formation.

Dragon fruit is also loaded with B vitamins, specifically, B2, B3 and B3, so it supports health blood pressure, skin health, cholesterol levels, and thyroid function. It also aids with digestion, facilitating smooth passage and alleviating constipation. This and the high fiber content in general can help lower your risk of colorectal cancer.

Wash the outer skin, cut into quarters and peel back the skin. Eat it sliced or in chucks, in smoothies or grilled on kebabs.

radishWatermelon Radishes

If you have never eaten a watermelon radish you are in for a wonderful delight. You can find these now at your local farmer’s market. On the outside they look a bit like a turnip.  But when sliced, you will see the vibrant watermelon-like flesh, hence the name. Milder that the average radish, they can be enjoyed so many ways.  We love them sliced and sprinkled with fine Celtic sea salt or as a ‘cracker’ for cheese or dip.

Being a member of the cruciferous family,  radishes have potent anti-cancer properties. They are an excellent source of vitamin C, offering some protection from cancer by scavenging harmful free radicals, lowering inflammation, and boosting immunity. They are rich in sulforaphane, which has been shown to be effective against cancers of the breast, colon, prostate, and many others. Studies show that sulforaphane inhibits cancer cell growth and is cyto-toxic to cancer cells.

Radishes are natural detoxifiers that help to manage environmental and natural toxins such as estrogen.  Studies have found that radishes can also help to lower blood pressure and cholesterol as well.

Radishes also contain phytochemicals like indoles which are detoxifying agents, as well as zeaxanthin, lutein, and beta carotene, which are flavonoid antioxidants. They are also good sources of folate, vitamin B-6, riboflavin, thiamin, and minerals such as iron, magnesium, copper, and calcium.

You might also want to consider purple radishes, which are even milder than watermelon radishes and are equally nutritionally beneficial.

Don’t forget to visit my Shop page for supplement advice–most of the recommendations can be found locally, but for your convenience, links to resources are provided. Supplements are essential for optimal health as well as to improve the efficacy of conventional and alternative treatments. Supplements can also help to protect the body from some of the harmful effects of conventional treatment. You will also find resources for improving sleep, EMF protection, and more. Visit my website or the articles below for natural alternatives to Tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors should you feel such therapies are not right for you.

Elyn

~~If you don’t know your options, you don’t have any~~
Elyn Jacobs is a breast cancer survivor and holistic cancer strategist who helps people make better, healthier, non-toxic choices. She emphasizes the critical nature of addressing the root cause of cancer and not just its presenting symptoms (such as the tumor). Elyn specializes in understanding the role of estrogen in breast cancer and debunks the myths associated. She brings a plethora of knowledge to her practice and will help you think outside the box so you can incorporate every lifeline you may need for long term survival. Elyn is a Contributing Editor for The Truth About Cancer and was creator and host of the Survive and Live Well Radio Show on the Cancer Support Network. She is on the Medical Advisory Board for BeatCancer.Org and is on the Advisory Board to the Radical Remission Project. Elyn was the former Executive Director of the Emerald Heart Cancer Foundation. Contact Elyn via her website. Elyn offers consults via Skype, phone or in person.

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Low Dose Naltrexone: The Affordable Non-Toxic Cancer Therapy Your Doctor is NOT Telling You About

In Alternative Cancer Therapies, Breast Cancer, Healing Cancer Naturally, Uncategorized on July 27, 2016 at 7:43 am

Naltrexone has been traditionally used to help drug and alcohol abusers.  But did you know that at very low doses, Naltrexone is a highly effective off-label therapy for cancer?

I rarely advocate for the use the pharmaceutical drugs, but low dose naltrexone (LDN) holds so much promise for those with cancer, that it virtues need to become known.

Naltrexone was approved by the FDA decades ago for opiate and alcohol dependence. And although the “off-label use” of a drug—prescribing it to treat conditions other than those for which it is approved—is perfectly legal, almost all doctors fail to do this. Sadly, most doctors refuse to consider any and all effective therapies that fall outside the mainstream. But this is a terrible disservice to those with cancer!

So why aren’t doctors prescribing it?  It comes down to money and ignorance.  In this case, the drug is cheap and the patent for naltrexone expired. Therefore there is no financial incentive for the drug company to advertise or push doctors to recommend it. Plus, or because of this and the resulting ignorance, many doctors take the stance that “if it were that good I would know about it”.

However, through the work of prominent doctors and researchers such as Dr Bernard Bihari MD, Dr Burt Berkson MD, and others, more and more researchers and patients are taking notice—and I suggest you do too!

The Birth of LDN as a Promising Therapy

Dr Bihari first started using naltrexone for his patients with addiction problems. He found that it worked well by attaching to the opioid receptors in the brain that heroin and other opiate drugs seek out.  In doing so, it blocks these receptors effectively preventing the ‘high’ that these drugs offer. However, during this time he found that naltrexone also blocked the binding of the body’s own endorphins and natural opiates that boost mood and sense of well-being. Thus, his patients felt terrible, so he stopped using the naltrexone.

However, through his work on AIDS Bihari found that at low doses given at bedtime, naltrexone stimulated endorphin release.  He found that endorphin levels doubled and often tripled which jumpstarted his patient’s immune systems— and the patients got better.

According to Dr Bihari, endorphins play a central role in immune function, and LDN enhances the immune response by stimulating endorphin production.

With this new development he began to focus on the immune system as a healing tool.  He found that LDN worked for other diseases linked to immune dysfunction such as MS — and cancer as well.

 How LDN Works

LDN revisedLDN works by blocking opioid receptors, which in turn helps activate the body’s immune system. It seems that when LDN is taken at bedtime, it binds to opioid receptors and temporarily blocks endorphins from attaching. This signals the body to increase endorphin production. The result is a dramatic boost in immune function. Then the opiates bind to receptors in bone marrow stem cells, macrophages, natural killer cells, T and B cells, and other immune cells and influence their development, differentiation, and function.

In other words, opioid receptors aren’t exclusive to the brain. They’re also present on all types of immune cells, including macrophages, natural killer cells, T- and B-cells, and even stem cells. As a result, the flood of endorphins set into motion by LDN stimulates the immune system and enhances the body’s ability to fight disease.

LDN upregulates opioid receptors in cancer cells, stimulating the process of programmed cell death (apoptosis) — thus killing some of the cancer cells.  It also stimulates certain immune cells that tend to go after cancer cells, including T4 and natural killer cells (NK cells).

Recent research also suggests that natural opiates also bind to receptors on cancer cells and inhibit their growth. LDN has been found to shrink tumors and inhibit their growth.

Major institutions such as The Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania have done considerable research on LDN.  Numerous case studies have shown it is effective for a variety of cancer types, including colon, prostate, melanoma, multiple myeloma, breast, ovary, uterine, brain, neuroblastoma, lung, Hodgkin’s disease, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

ALA and LDN, a Powerful Combination

There is also a combination therapy called the Berkson Method – using Alpha-Lipoic Acid alongside LDN. Lipoic acid is a potent antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals and generates and increases levels of vitamins C and E as well as CoQ10 and glutathione. Moreover, ALA is a modifier of gene expression. It seems to interfere with some of the genes that promote cancer. Note: look for R-ALA as it is the form found naturally occurring in the body and is the biologically active form of alpha lipoic acid. S-ALA is synthetic and should not be used.

Can I take LDN If I take Tamoxifen or Aromatase Inhibitors?

Several of my clients voiced their concerns about compatibility with aromatase inhibitors or tamoxifen. There are few reports of LDN interactions with other medications (do not use with opiate painkillers). Specifically though, according to Integrative Pharmacist David Restrepo, RPh (Vitahealth Apothecaries, New York), this should not be a problem with hormone therapies:

There is no data that suggests using AI’s, (regardless of the generation i.e. 1st 2nd or 3rd) and LDN cause any drug interaction. It’s important to keep a few things in mind.

Firstly, the normal dose of naltrexone is anywhere from 50-300mg daily and used as an opiate antagonist. Using this high of a dose would make there be a better chance of experiencing “side effects” but again, no drug interaction with AI’s. Secondly, naltrexone is selective to opiate receptors where AI’s are selective estrogen receptor modulators.

Lastly, they both are metabolized by the liver, BUT naltrexone, at such a low dose, is effective because it causes a “spike” in the bloodstream, where AI’s stay in the bloodstream much longer because of their relatively longer half-life. Any person worried about the possibility of drug interactions can just take their AI in the morning and the LDN AT NIGHT which is when it works best anyway. David Restrepo, RPh

What If I have Hashimoto’s, Graves or Another Autoimmune Disease?

One should always consult with a qualified doctor before taking any medication, but some people can actually achieve remission from autoimmune diseases by using LDN.  This is because LDN modulates the immune system.  It lowers inflammation as well as the immune reaction. However, if you have thyroid issues or any type of autoimmune disease, your doctor will likely start you out at a lower than normal dose.

Is LDN a Cure?

I’m not suggesting that LDN is a the magical cure for cancer, and in fact, it is not actually ‘curative’. This is partly because, like chemo and radiation,  it does not resolve the reason for the cancer.  But it is also is important to understand that LDN is a cell growth regulator. The goal is to regulate these cells and slow down the proliferation. Taken continuously, countless patients have achieved and maintained remission. Thus, in some cases,with the use of LDN cancer can be treated as a manageable chronic disease without the damaging effects of conventional chemotherapy and radiation–which on their own are rarely curative.

Therefore, I do recommend that you look into this safe, inexpensive ($25–30 a month) therapy. It may take some work convincing your doctor to write the script as this is an “off-label” use of an approved drug—but its long track record of efficacy makes it worth the effort. If you need some assistance with finding a doctor who will write the script, respond below in the comment field.

LDN requires a prescription and at is only available at compounding pharmacies. LDN must not be a timed-released preparation and should be taken at bedtime. The therapeutic dose ranges from 1.5-4.5mg, the later being the typical dose. Some people find that they have trouble sleeping or experience vivid dreams the first week taking LDN.  This issue should subside but consult with your doctor as he or she may want to reduce your dose for a week or so. If you have trouble filling your script, contact Vitahealth apothecary. www.vitahealthrx.com.

If you need something to back up your request to your doctor or just for more information, visit www.lowdosenaltrexone.org  to learn more as well as to find thousands of inspiring healing stories.

Again, I am not suggesting that LDN is the magical ‘cure-all’ for cancer, but it does offer a safe and inexpensive alternative to toxic cancer therapies. You might have to find an ‘outside the box’ doctor to prescribe this off-label drug, but it may well be worth the effort. If you would like to discuss how to incorporate LDN into your protocol, please contact me.

Lastly, this is something I have added to my own protocol. After all, who couldn’t use a few more  ‘feel good’ endorphins. For more of my story, please click here. It is not complete as far as supplements go, but that list is long.

 This information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to treat, cure, prevent or diagnose any diseases or conditions. The information in this post does not represent medical advice, and I encourage you to discuss this information with your integrative oncologist or naturopathic doctor. Always consult with a medical doctor before you consider any prescription or over the counter drug or herb.

Read 12 Things a Cancer Doctor Should Never Say, my most recent article on The Truth About Cancer Website.

Elyn
~~If you don’t know your options, you don’t have any~~
Elyn Jacobs is a breast cancer survivor and holistic cancer strategist who helps people make better, healthier, non-toxic choices. She emphasizes the critical nature of addressing the root cause of cancer and not just its presenting symptoms (such as the tumor). Elyn specializes in understanding the role of estrogen in breast cancer and debunks the myths associated. She brings a plethora of knowledge to her practice and will help you think outside the box so you can incorporate every lifeline you may need for long term survival. Elyn is a Contributing Editor for The Truth About Cancer and was creator and host of the Survive and Live Well Radio Show on the Cancer Support Network. She is on the Medical Advisory Board for BeatCancer.Org and is on the Advisory Board to the Radical Remission Project. Elyn was the former Executive Director of the Emerald Heart Cancer Foundation. Contact Elyn via her website. Elyn offers consults via Skype, phone or in person.

Follow Elyn on Facebook

Follow Survive and Live Well on Twitter

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Raspberries: One Powerful Anti-Cancer Fruit

In Alternative Cancer Therapies, Breast Cancer, Cancer, cancer stem cells and recurrence, chemo and cancer stem cells, foods that target cancer stem cells, radiation and cancer stem cells, supplements that target cancer stem cells, targeting cancer stem cells, Uncategorized on May 3, 2016 at 12:05 pm

Certain phytonutrients found in raspberries can protect us from cancer and can even shrink some types of cancer tumors.

mango

Mango Smoothie

Raspberries contain ellagitannins, one of the most powerful antioxidants known.  Ellagitannins occur naturally in over forty different foods, but are found in abundance in raspberries, strawberries and pomegranate. However, red raspberry seeds, and the Meeker variety in particular, appear to be the most concentrated source of this beneficial phenolic complex.  Interestingly, the seeds of the fruit contain more ellatitannins than the fruit itself.

Ellagitannins are large flat molecules found in the fruit and seeds of many fruits.  Ellagitannins are water-soluble, making them easy for the body to absorb. After consumption, stomach acids convert these ellagitannins into ellagic acid. It is important to know that as such, that ellatitannins should be obtained from food, not as supplemental ellagic acid.

There has been much research into ellagic acid. Its value as a potent anti-oxidant and its value in fighting cancer is widely accepted. Ellagic acid has been shown to keep cancer cells from dividing and multiplying and eventually helps to kill the cancer. Ellagic acid inhibits angiogenesis—a term used to describe the development of blood vessels needed for tumor growth. It also encourages apoptosis (cancer cell death.) Ellagic has been quite successful against esophageal, breast, colon, prostate, and skin cancer.  Studies have shown that ellagic acid may help prevent the development of cancer in cells infected with the human papilloma virus, which has been linked to cervical cancer.

Ellagitannins may also support healthy cholesterol levels and have anti-fungal, anti-viral, anti-bacterial properties. Red Raspberry Seed Powder

Ellagic acid works in many wonderful ways:

  • Powerful antioxidant– it neutralizes cell damaging free radicals
  • Protects the p53 tumor suppressor gene. The P53 gene causes cell reproduction to cease, and cells to die
  • Protects DNA from the mutations that cause cancer
  • Stops cancer cell proliferation
  • Induces cancer cell death
  • Lowers inflammation
  • Slows tumor growth
  • Targets cancer stem cells: Cancer stem cells not only survive most conventional treatments, but are responsible for recurrent and progressive disease
  • Inhibits the growth of oral, breast, colon, cervical, and prostate tumor cell lines
  • Supports healthy cholesterol levels
  • Has anti-fungal, anti-viral, and anti-bacterial properties

Don’t overlook another amazing type of raspberry—black raspberries

Studies show that black raspberries kill cancer cells and activate tumor suppressor genes.

berry

Blueberry smoothie

The phytonutrients in black raspberries have been found to inhibit cervical cancer cell growth and tumor formation, inhibit inflammation and induce apoptosis in esophageal and colorectal cancer tissues (strawberries are also highly effective against esophageal cancer cells). While it can be challenging to find fresh or even frozen black raspberries, it can be purchased in powder form–and is delicious in smoothies! Black Raspberry Powder 

 

 

 

 

Sources:

http://www.scalarhealth.com/elcanaen.html

https://www.smdi.org/-berry-good-health-by-susan-trorpe-vargas-ph-d.html

https://elynjacobs.com/2015/01/09/cancer-stem-cells-could-they-be-the-key-to-metastasis/

 

Find Red Raspberry Seed and Black Raspberry powders online:

raspberryRed Raspberry Seed Powder black rasp  Black Raspberry Powder 

 

Elyn

~~If you don’t know your options, you don’t have any~~

Elyn Jacobs is a breast cancer survivor and holistic cancer strategist who helps people make better, healthier, non-toxic choices. She emphasizes the critical nature of addressing the root cause of cancer and not just its presenting symptoms (such as the tumor). Elyn specializes in understanding the role of estrogen in breast cancer and debunks the myths associated. She brings a plethora of knowledge to her practice and will help you think outside the box so you can incorporate every lifeline you may need for long term survival. Elyn is a Contributing Editor for The Truth About Cancer and was creator and host of the Survive and Live Well Radio Show on the Cancer Support Network. She is on the Medical Advisory Board for BeatCancer.Org and is on the Advisory Board to the Radical Remission Project. Contact Elyn via her website, www.elynjacobs.com. Elyn offers consults via Skype, phone or in person.

 

 

 

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Flaxseed: The Anti-Cancer Power Seed

In Alternatives Cancer Treatment, Alternatives to Tamoxifen, Breast Cancer, Healing Cancer Naturally, Hormone Balance, Uncategorized on February 29, 2016 at 3:38 pm

As explained in my post Flaxseed: Better Than Tamoxifen for Breast Cancer, flaxseed is quite beneficial in the prevention and treatment for breast cancer. However, flaxseed has also been found to inhibit the growth and metastasis of prostate cancer and offers protection against colon and other cancers.

Flaxseed contains lignans — phytochemical compounds that are concentrated in the fibrous hulls of flaxseeds. These lignans have a significant impact on the body’s ability to manage cancer. Studies have shown that lignans significantly reduce tumor growth by increasing cell death, decreasing angiogenesis and many other processes. (See Flaxseed for more information.)

Flaxseed is high in Omega 3’s and well as antioxidants, further defeating cancer by supporting immune function and reducing inflammation. Flaxseed also contains considerable Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) which has also been found to reduce inflammation and cancer growth. The fiber content of flax is yet another of its virtues. Fiber has been implicated in protection against cancers such as colon cancer.

When I went gluten free, I began experimenting with high flax gluten-free substitutes.  While there are plenty of ‘gluten-free’ options at the market, most are filled with undesirable ingredients.

Below are a few of my favorite recipes (you can also add ground flax to oatmeal, cereals and other favorite dishes):

Flaxseed Muffins

One muffin will provide you with 20 grams flaxseed—eat one or two daily (2 if you add apples or walnuts as the flax content per muffin will be slightly lower as the recipe will yield more than 12 muffins).

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups flaxseed, coarsely ground (freshly ground, not pre-ground)
  • 3-4 teaspoons stevia (or ¼ cup coconut sugar or maple syrup)
  • 1 tablespoon aluminum-free baking powder
  • 2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon fine Pink Himalayan or Celtic sea salt
  • 5 large eggs
  • ½ cup water, room temperature
  • ⅓ cup melted coconut oil
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

Optional:

  • Chopped unpeeled apples
  • Chopped walnuts
  • Coarse Celtic sea salt for sprinkling on top prior to baking
  • Whey powder– plain, chocolate or vanilla

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350F and line a 12-count muffin pan with non-bleached paper liners. Set aside.
  2. Combine flax seed with sweetener, baking powder, cinnamon, whey (if using) and salt in a large bowl. Whisk to combine fully and set aside.
  3. Put eggs, water, oil and vanilla extract into a blender. Blend on high for 30 seconds, until foamy.
  4. Transfer liquid mixture to the bowl with the flaxseed mixture. Stir with a spatula, just until incorporated. The mixture will be very fluffy. Once incorporated, allow to sit for 3 minutes.
  5. Spoon mixture into prepared muffin pan (if you add chopped walnuts or apple, you may need more than one muffin pan; alternatively you can make disc-shaped ‘muffin tops’ by spreading batter on a parchment lined pan. These can be used as toast for eggs, crusts for pizza, etc.
  6. Bake muffins for 13-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Remove from the oven and remove muffins from the cavities immediately and place on a cooling rack.
  7. Muffins can be toasted or frozen. Keeps in the fridge for 3-4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

 

Super Seed Bread

Ingredients:

  • ¼ cup rolled oats (omit and increase flax to ¾ cup, if desired)
  • ¼ cup raw buckwheat groats (omit and increase flax to ¾ cup, if desired)
  • ¼ cup chia seeds *
  • ½ cup flaxseed
  • ¼ cup raw sunflower seeds, sprouted, if available
  • ¼ cup raw pepita seeds (pumpkin seeds)
  • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
  • 2 teaspoons dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon fine Celtic or Pink Himalayan salt
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper, or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon
  • Coarse Celtic sea salt for sprinkling

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Line a 9” square cake pan with two pieces of parchment paper, one going each way
  2. Place the oats and buckwheat groats (if modifying to include more flax, use ¾ cup flax and ¼ cup oats or groats or a combination of the two) in a high speed blender or individually in a coffee grinder until they resemble a fine powder
  3. Grind flaxseed
  4. Add remaining ingredients to bowl; stir until well combined
  5. Stir in one cup water until well combined; the mixture will be watery
  6. Pour into the pan and spread out evenly with a spatula. Sprinkle with coarse Celtic sea salt, sesame seeds, and poppy seeds, if desired.
  7. Bake, uncovered, for about 25 minutes, or until firm to the touch. Let the bread cool in the pan for 5 minutes and then transfer to a cooling rack for 5-10 minutes.  Slice into fourths (or eights) and enjoy, or allow to cool.  Wrap individually and freeze, or enjoy for up to two days, stored in the refrigerator.

Notes:

I recommend you play around with this recipe.  Alter it to fit your needs and add different spices as desired.  Fenugreek, cumin and other spices are wonderful adds to this recipe.

This bread is also wonderful toasted, served with eggs or topped with hummus, nut butter, tahini, or pesto.

If cut into eighths, each slice will yield you over 1Tbs of flax and 10 grams of protein, more if you add whey!  Eat two slices (1/4 of the bread) and you will have your 25 grams.

*Chia seeds are loaded with inflammation reducing Omega3’s

Pizza Crust Recipe (also excellent topped with eggs):eggs on toast

For an amazing gluten free, flax filled crust for pizza or eggs, check out my pizza recipe.  You can also increase the flax in this recipe.  Just reduce the garbanzo bean (or quinoa) flour to less than one tablespoon and use 2-3 tablespoons of freshly ground flax and 1 tablespoon chia seeds. Add coarse Celtic sea salt, 1 teaspoon coconut oil and 1/3 to ½ cup freshly chopped herbs and scallions(something I have been doing and it is a great way to include progesterone boosting, anticancer power to your meal). Add in spices of your choice—fenugreek, cayenne, cumin, cinnamon are some suggestions. Use this crust for eggs or pizza.

For a delicious flax pancake recipe, Click Here.

IMPORTANT — given the state of confusion many people seem to be in with conflicting information on the internet, please understand that estrogen is ESSENTIAL to your health–EVEN for those with ER- PR breast cancer.  Please do not allow your doctor to tell you otherwise. However, remember that flax is a phytoestrogen–and is protective against cancer. Raising progesterone to bring the body back into balance is VERY important and can be done with lifestyle efforts. Progesterone is protective against breast cancer (more on this in the next post). Note that synthetic hormones should never be used.

Elyn

~~If you don’t know your options, you don’t have any~~

Elyn Jacobs is a breast cancer survivor and holistic cancer strategist who helps people make better, healthier, non-toxic choices. She emphasizes the critical nature of addressing the root cause of cancer and not just its presenting symptoms (such as the tumor). Elyn specializes in understanding the role of estrogen in breast cancer and debunks the myths associated. She brings a plethora of knowledge to her practice and will help you think outside the box so you can incorporate every lifeline you may need for long term survival. Contact Elyn via her website, www.elynjacobs.com. By doing so you can ascertain exactly how she is able to assist you as you optimize your health. Elyn offers consults via Skype, phone or in person.

 

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Flaxseed: Better Than Tamoxifen for Breast Cancer

In Alternative Cancer Therapies, Alternatives to Tamoxifen, Breast Cancer, Cancer, Hormone Balance, Tamoxifen, Uncategorized on February 28, 2016 at 5:00 pm

Phytoestrogens such as flax seed are cancer-preventive, not causative. Regular consumption of flax seed helps prevent breast cancer, reduces tumor growth, inhibits the progression of the disease, and dramatically increases survival time.

Your Doctor is Wrong

Many doctors tell their patients to avoid flaxseed as they believe that phytoestrogens are bad for women with breast cancer. The ‘logic’ behind the notion that flax is a weak estrogen and therefore could potentially stimulate hormone dependent cancers is simply, well, not logical. On the contrary, studies have found that the more flaxseed a woman eats, the less likely she will get breast cancer. If she has already been diagnosed, flaxseed has the potential to reduce the growth and invasiveness of her cancer.

While it is true that a high concentration of plasma estrogen is associated with breast cancer, the lignans in flaxseed actually help reduce estrogen’s effects. Phytoestrogens compete with natural estrogen for binding to the receptors on breast cells, yet they exert much milder action than the body’s own estrogen. While the chemotherapy drug tamoxifen also blocks estrogen receptors, it comes with a host of dangerous side effects.

flax vs tamoxifenOne of the other ways the tamoxifen works is by starving the tumor of its blood supply. However, once again, researchers have found that flaxseed provides the same response.

A landmark study led by lignin expert Dr Lilian Thompson, a professor in the Department of Nutritional Sciences at the University of Toronto, showed that just two tablespoons (25 grams) of flaxseed daily can significantly reduce tumor growth. The researchers further concluded that the effect of flaxseed on cancerous cells was comparable to that of tamoxifen, sans the side effects.

In this infamous study, women with newly diagnosed breast cancer were given either a muffin laden with 25 grams of flaxseed  or a placebo muffin that did not contain flax. The researchers found that in those participants who had eaten the flax muffin there was a 34% reduction of the Ki-67 index expression (a cellular marker for proliferation) a 71% decrease in Her2/Neu expression (Her2/neu is a genetic marker that predicts the aggressiveness of the cancer) and a 30.7% increase in apoptosis (cell death).  Mighty impressive results.

When the tumors were removed, the researchers found that the women who had eaten the flax seed muffins had slower-growing tumors than the others. And what is really cool is that the researchers found that the effect of  flax on the cancerous cells was comparable with that seen using chemotherapy (tamoxifen).

Flaxseed inhibits breast cancer whether the tumor is estrogen receptor positive or negative, and the response is dose-dependent. The more flax you consume, the more effective it will be. In fact, one study determined that women who eat the most flax reduce their risk of developing breast cancer by a whopping 62 percent!

 Key Benefits of Flaxseed

  • Decreases cell proliferation rates
  • Significantly reduces tumor growth
  • Decreases angiogenesis and increases apoptosis (which seem to account for the decreased tumor growth)
  • Influences ER-negative and ER-positive tumors by decreasing insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), HER2 and the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) which supports angiogenesis
  • Reduces metastasis of ER-negative breast tumors
  • ALA from flaxseed reduces growth of breast cancer, including ER-negative and triple-negative breast cancer
  • Rich in Omega 3’s with have been found to positively influence the tumor suppressor genes—BRCA. When properly functioning, these genes prevent tumor growth by repairing DNA
  • Radio-protective (consuming flax can help prevent the body from damaging mammograms, radio-therapy, CT and PET scans)

I encourage you to read my post Demystifying Flaxseed and Estrogen for more on flaxseed and breast cancer.

For an excellent discussion on the distortion of the efficacy of tamoxifen, please read Tamoxifen; the Manipulation of Statistics and Natural Solutions to Balance the Hormones.

Some of the studies suggest two tablespoons daily is enough, but others recommend slightly more than three.  Interestingly, the summer before my re-diagnosis, I  cut back on consumption.  This past summer, however, I not only consumed flax — I consumed a great deal of it.  Most days I had 5-8 tablespoons.  I hadn’t originally thought about this when I was considering what, of all the things that I did, turned my cancer around.  Now that I look back, it could very well be that flax was a key player.

So how exactly did I end up eating so much flaxseed?  If you remember my post on Food Fatigue, I suddenly had a hankering for pizza, made with a garbanzo bean crust as I had given up wheat. It wasn’t long before I used that crust to make ‘toast’ to go with my eggs, and before long, I modified that crust to be mostly flax (and some chia seeds too!). Since then I have come up with some amazing recipes, so look for Part II for those.

Clearly oncologists should be advising their patients to eat copious amounts of dietary flax.  I am not a doctor and this is not medical advice, but you might want to consider including flax in your daily diet. Flaxseed is only one of the components of an anti-cancer, estrogen management protocol, but it is an important one.flax grinder

Remember that flaxseed oxidizes quickly, turning it rancid.  To ensure the stability and nutritional value of flax, please grind the seeds just prior to use. This can be easily done in a simple coffee grinder.

If you are interested in learning about natural alternatives to tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors, please contact me for more information.

Click here for Recipes

More Studies and Posts on Flaxseed:

http://nutritionfacts.org/video/flaxseeds-breast-cancer-survival-epidemiological-evidence/

http://nutritionfacts.org/video/flaxseeds-breast-cancer-survival-clinical-evidence/

http://www.denvernaturopathic.com/news/flaxseeds.html#_edn12

http://carcin.oxfordjournals.org/content/17/6/1373.short

Resources

http://www.denvernaturopathic.com/news/flaxseeds.html

http://preventcancer.aicr.org/new/docs/pdf/AICR-InDepth-Issue-01-Flaxseed-and-Breast-Cancer.pdf

http://cancercompassalternateroute.com/breast-health/tamoxifen-and-the-manipulation-of-statistics/

http://clincancerres.aacrjournals.org/content/11/10/3828

Nothing in this post is intended to be medical advice, nor is it a replacement for medical advice. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to treat, cure, prevent or diagnose any diseases or conditions. Always consult with your medical team before making treatment choices.

Elyn

~~If you don’t know your options, you don’t have any~~

Elyn Jacobs is a breast cancer survivor and holistic cancer strategist who helps people make better, healthier, non-toxic choices. She emphasizes the critical nature of addressing the root cause of cancer and not just its presenting symptoms (such as the tumor). Elyn specializes in understanding the role of estrogen in breast cancer and debunks the myths associated. She brings a plethora of knowledge to her practice and will help you think outside the box so you can incorporate every lifeline you may need for long term survival. Contact Elyn via her website, www.elynjacobs.com. By doing so you can ascertain exactly how she is able to assist you as you optimize your health. Elyn offers consults via Skype, phone or in person.

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WHAT YOU DON’T KNOW CAN HURT YOU

In Alternatives Cancer Treatment, Breast Cancer, Cancer, Dental Toxins and Cancer on November 20, 2015 at 8:27 am

I am frequently asked for remedial recommendations for dis-ease causing dental work. Most of the time it is for the safe removal of mercury-laden fillings, but many people do not realize dis-ease resulting from dental work goes well beyond fillings and root-canals.  Please enjoy this guest post by Dr. Michael J. Olmstead, D.D.S.

What You Don’t Know Can Hurt You

By Dr. Michael J. Olmstead, D.D.S.

Health care has made many advances over the years and dentistry has been at the forefront of the development of new techniques and materials. Unfortunately, some of these dental procedures have unintended consequences associated with them. As well, some dental conditions if left untreated, will result in very significant health risks. Below we will briefly touch on some of these issues. Please note that it is beyond the scope of this presentation to include all of the scientific research sources, but the body of study in each of these areas is considerable and growing.

    Periodontal Disease

It has been well established for over 25 years that the gum disease which affects 80-90 percent of adults and 40 percent of children plays a major role in many systemic conditions. Scientific research has isolated diabetes, stroke, cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, abnormal pregnancy outcomes, gastric, arthritis, kidney disease and duodenal ulcers as some of the problems that periodontal (gum) disease is strongly associated with. Recently, studies have strongly connected it with pancreatic and kidney cancers well as colorectal cancer being triggered by a bacteria found in dental plaque. The reason appears to be the bacteria and inflammatory by products associated with gum disease circulate in the blood stream, digestive and respiratory systems.

The statistics are startling! If you have even moderate gum disease and are pregnant, you have a 7X greater risk of an APO (abnormal birth weight pregnancy outcome). Your chance of a coronary event is 4X greater. Contemporary  chronic disease (80 percent of adults have one or more) theories are telling us that inflammation is a primary, and maybe, the largest single cause. For many people the largest source of this inflammation is in their oral cavity. In short, you can not protect yourself from life threatening health problems without good gum tissue health.

SOLUTION: Establish a home care program of scrapping your tongue, flossing and brushing at least 2x/day. Do this immediately upon arising and as the last thing before bed. Have your teeth cleaned 2,3 x /year. If you have swollen, sore, bleeding or receded gums, seek professional care immediately.

     Mercury

Mercury is one of the most dangerous heavy metals in general use in dentistry. It is not correct to say it is a toxin, because there is no threshold upon which it will not cause cellular damage. Therefore, toxicologists define this more correctly as a poison. It also accumulates in the system, and is not easily cleansed away by normal body function.

The “silver” fillings that are still widely used and present in most peoples mouths are 50 percent mercury by weight and only 30 percent silver. They should really be called mercury fillings.  Contrary to some opinions, it is not locked in the filling, but leaks out and accumulates in various tissues of the body. An interesting study showed that it was found to be present in all breast cancer tumor cells sampled.

Inhibiting our immune system, specifically damaging brain cells, kidney disfunction, neurologic disorders, motor disturbances and psychologic disorders (depression, mood swings) are some of the negative effects of mercury on the body.

SOLUTION: Do not have any new amalgam (“silver”) fillings placed in your mouth. If you currently have amalgam fillings, consider having them removed by a dentist skilled in a safe removal protocol (this is very important).

       Local Anesthetics

Local anesthetics are a necessary part of modern dental care. But what is not commonly understood is the metabolism of the anesthetic once it has served its purpose. Two thirds of local dental anesthetics produce anilines in the body. This is a highly carcinogenic chemical. Exposure to it in animals will cause breast cancer as well as prostrate, brain, sarcomas and leukemia. This, anilines will do 99 percent of the time. One carpal or one shot of Lidocaine local anesthetic produces aniline equivalent to that found in 84,000 cigarettes.

SOLUTION: As an alternative, articaine or septocaine can be used. They do not create anilines in the body. Although there are always side effects to any drug given, these are preferable to the most commonly used Lidocaine. Marcaine produces 80 percent less aniline when used as a long acting local anesthetic.

         Triclosan

This chemical is used in toothpaste and hand soaps to control the bacteria. Unfortunately, triclosan is one of the top ten, used on a regular basis, endocrine disputing chemicals. Endocrine disrupting chemicals can promote breast, prostrate, ovarian and testicular cancer. It can also promote the development of antibiotic resistant bacteria. It has also been related to thyroid disfunction. It is also present in the rubber and plastic of children toys.

Because the mouth is a very vascular area, it readily absorbs the chemicals that we use for cleaning our mouths.

SOLUTION: Do not use any product that contains this chemical. It will be clearly stated on the label. Do not purchase children toys that say they contain germ fighting”disinfectant” as children will put these in their mouth.

{On a separate topic, 99 percent of breast cancer tissue contained paraben esters. These are chemicals widely used as preservatives in cosmetics.

SOLUTION:Read the labels and do not purchase if it contains any parabens.}

    Fluoride

We consume fluoride from a variety of sources: water, toothpaste, mouth rinses, vitamins, fluoride treatments and prescription medications (antibiotics and mood altering drugs).

There is NO need for fluoride in human nutrition. It does not prevent tooth decay. It does not make bones stronger.

Then what does it do?

  • Accumulates in our long bones increasing the chance of Osteosarcoma (bone cancer).
  • Can cause ADHD
  • Linked to Hypothyroidism
  • Linked to depression
  • Is a potent endocrine disrupter (see above under Triclosan)
  • Lowers IQ
  • Increases coronary artery calcification

SOLUTION: Do not drink fluoridated water, expose your children to fluoride vitamins or treatments, do not take antibiotics or any drugs that contain fluoride and do not use fluoride toothpaste.

Root Canals

There are 15-25 million root canals performed every year in the USA depending on the data source. This is a staggering number when you realize that there are serious risks associated with this commonly accepted dental treatment.

Because it is not possible to permanently disinfect the non-vital tooth, microorganisms and their toxic waste products accumulate in and around these teeth. Certain specific cancer inhibiting proteins are blocked by the toxic effect of root canal treated teeth. This potentiates the development and growth of tumor cells.

It is beyond the scope of this brief article to elaborate more, but suffice it to say root canal filled teeth pose a considerable risk for encouraging many degenerative health conditions.

SOLUTION: Look for other treatment options than root canal treatment. If you have root canals, make absolutely certain they, at the very least, look absent of infection basis x-ray evaluation. If you have chronic health conditions (cancer, arthritis, heart disease, immune system suppression, etc.) consider replacement of these teeth under the guidance of a biocompatible dentist.

As you can see there are many topics relating dental health, materials and procedures to our overall health. In further articles we will discuss dental sealants, bisphosphonates (a drug used for osteoperosis), Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (and similar compounds),  oral and throat HPV infection and dental pulpotomies on children.

If you have questions, Dr. Olmstead can be reached at Dental Second Opinion  or call at 877-335-3069

Copyright 2015 all rights reserved

Elyn

~~If you don’t know your options, you don’t have any~~

Dr. Michael Olmstead is an honors graduate of the University of Southern California School of Dentistry. He has been referenced in professional journals, and has written many consumer oriented articles. He has also been frequently interviewed on radio and television. For the last 27 years, Dr. Olmstead practiced and promoted mercury free dental care using biocompatible dental materials. He has extensive knowledge relating to the effects that dental materials and procedures have on health.  He is trained and certified as an AyurVeda Health Consultant, focusing on the individual first and then the disease condition.  Dr. Olmstead has been a strong advocate educating the public on the dangers of mercury fillings, gum disease and other dental procedures on overall health – especially heart disease, stroke, abnormal pregnancy, etc. He has helped thousands of patients with his extensive dental knowledge and experience, as well as utilizing the modalities of AyurVeda.
Elyn Jacobs is a breast cancer survivor, professional cancer strategist, speaker, and the Executive Director for the Emerald Heart Cancer Foundation. Elyn empowers women to choose the path for treatment that best fits their own individual needs. She is passionate about helping others move forward into a life of health and well-being. Elyn has been featured on CNN Money, Talk About Health, and Breast Cancer Answers, is a Contributing Editor for The Truth About Cancer, and has written for the Pink Paper, Breast Cancer Wellness, Integrative Oncology Essentials, Surviving Beautifully, Body Local and more; she authored the Options for Life column for the Natural Healing-Natural Wellness Magazine. Elyn was creator and host of the Survive and Live Well Radio Show on the Cancer Support Network. She is on the Medical Advisory Board for BeatCancer.Org and is on the Advisory Board to the Radical Remission Project. Elyn lives in New York with her husband and two boys. https://elynjacobs.com/about/

Tune in to the Survive and Live Well Show

Replay the Survive and Live Well Radio Show Archives

Read Elyn’s Blog

Follow Elyn on Facebook

Follow Survive and Live Well on Twitter

Follow Elyn on Linkedin

 

 

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The Potions Behind the Motions: Healing Elyn

In Alternatives Cancer Treatment, Breast Cancer, Cancer, cancer stem cells and recurrence on October 22, 2015 at 9:50 am

Last week I posted my story of healing from stage 3 breast cancer, Healing Cancer Naturally: Elyn’s Potions and Motions.  In that post I spoke about the healing of my mind–healing the emotional traumas that were making me sick. In this post I get into the nutritional aspect of my healing. Maybe my story helps you with your own journey.

The Potions Behind the Motions

ej pink twoWhile my cancer surely seemed to be an emotionally driven one, I still needed a protocol that would target cancer cells and help prevent the spread of this cancer. I still need to up the ante nutritionally. Working with my oncologist, Dr Mitch Gaynor, and my alternative doctor, Dr Michael Schachter, I devised a protocol of weekly Intravenous Vitamin C treatments in addition to tweaking my targeted supplements. I also worked with Dr George Wong, and diligently drank his teas daily.

While I was already a healthy eater, I ramped it up by juicing as well as eating sprouts in huge quantities (especially broccoli, watercress, kale and basil), and by consuming fresh herbs every day. Herbs such sage, rosemary, thyme, basil and oregano contain potent anti-cancer compounds and support the production of progesterone (needed to offset estrogen) and ultimately activate the P53 gene, known to cause cell reproduction to cease and cancer cells to die (apoptosis). Unopposed estrogen turns on the BCL2 gene, which is actually what causes cancer cells to grow rapidly and not die. (Vitamin C also boosts the production of progesterone, supporting the P53 gene and thus blocking BCL2).

I also started using Frankincense (Boswellia). At first I was taking this in supplement form, and then in June, began using Sacred Frankincense essential oil in my armpit and on the soles of my feet. What we know about frankincense is that that it boosts the immune system and kills cancer cells—quite effectively. (Research shows that frankincense is extremely effective for brain, breast, colon, pancreatic, ovarian, stomach and likely many other cancers.)

I also targeted cancer stem cells (CSCs). Although I declined chemo and radiation, I know that cancer stem cells are still to be dealt with. Trapped emotions can also stimulate cancer stem cells to regroup, which is yet another reason emotional stress is undoubtedly the  major cause of cancer and it recurrence, and is why I paid heed to addressing them. Cancer stem cells are the only cancer cells that can metastasize (chemo and radiation are not effective on CSCs and actually make them more powerful).  While I was already doing much to target these cells, I added modified citrus pectin, red raspberry seed powder, and ate even more broccoli sprouts–and again, dealt with those trapped emotions of mine (see part I).

I had no intention of taking of taking an aromatase inhibitor or tamoxifen—there are far better ways to manage estrogen than the use of toxic drugs. Tamoxifen is considered by many to be an anti-estrogen as it binds to estrogen receptor sites on cancer cells thus blocking estrogen from entering, interfering with cell growth and eventually leading to cell death. Soy and flaxseed are also anti-estrogens and can do the very same thing, sans the damage of a toxic drug (and they contain other compounds that have been shown to reduce the growth and spread of cancer cells). Rosemary (extract or from the garden) blocks estrogen production and inactivates excess estrogen by stimulating liver enzymes to better metabolize estrogen.Vitamin D also enters cancer cells and triggers that very same cell death process—and researchers believe vitamin D may be just as powerful as the anti-estrogen drug.

I continued to eat scoops and scoops of freshly ground flaxseed (even more than before) and ate a lot of soy (tofu is fine, but fermented soy such as tempeh is far better). I consumed large amounts of rosemary (and other herbs) several times a day. I upped my intake of vitamin D3, which may in fact have been a big part of my healing as my October lab test came in at 95! And of course, I worked hard to raise my progesterone level as it is vital to balancing estrogen.

While I don’t often advocate avoiding entire food groups, I did give up one thing–gluten.  Dr Schachter strongly encouraged me to give up gluten.  At first I was reluctant, but after more suspicious nodes were found in January, I went cold turkey. Later I was to hear from one of my healers that my body cannot handle gluten. Not all people experience uncomfortable reactions to gluten, but the inflammation within is silently doing its damage.

I juiced like crazy until June, when my herb garden blossomed. I replaced my smoothies and juices with seed crusted ‘pizzas’ loaded with sprouts and copious amounts of fresh herbs. Sometimes we get ‘Food Fatigue’ and we need to change things up so we don’t get bored and quit eating or quit eating healthy.

Here is a recap of some of the things I did to beat cancer (understand that this was in ADDITION to what I was already doing, or in some cases, I just upped the dose from what I was doing–and I take far more supplements than could be listed here).

  • Salvestrols and many other cancer-targeting, immune-boosting supplements such as black cumin seed, graviola, cat’s claw, and medicinal mushrooms
  • Magnesium and vitamin E to boost progesterone and balance hormones
  • IVC and Liposomal C for its cancer killing pro-oxidant and progesterone building efforts
  • Rain Soul, a blend of organic seed oils; anti-inflammatory, immune booster, powerful antioxidant, loaded with essential fatty acids (you can order this via their website)
  • Red raspberry seed powder, black raspberry powder, modified citrus pectin and other supplements that target cancer stem cells: For more natural compounds that target CSC’s, read: Cancer Stem Cells—Could They Be the Key to Metastasis?
  • Daily juicing (leafy greens, carrots, fennel, celery and herbs)
  • Chinese Herbal Medicine (tea) with Dr George Wong
  • Copious amounts of sprouts and microgreens: broccoli, watercress, kale, basil, arugula and added fresh herbs to every meal
  • Plenty of D3!! Vitamin D decreases the expression of cancer causing genes and offers many other amazing anti-cancer actions, including the boosting of progesterone levels
  • Changed my water source, reducing exposure to BPA and tap water toxins (I now use mostly Mountain Valley Spring Water, but if you can install an in-home filter, all the better)
  • Boosted estrogen metabolism with DIM, milk thistle (and other supplements that support the liver, whose job it is to metabolize estrogen—for more information, please visit my Shop page.
  • Boosted progesterone production to offset estrogen (this is huge, and you can do it with food, supplements and stress reduction!)
  • Iodine therapy (and its co-partner Celtic sea salt)
  • Frankincense
  • Consumed large amounts of flaxseed and pumpkin seeds, which lower aromatase and offer multiple benefits

Do I regret my decision for surgery? Absolutely—perhaps I doubted my ability to heal, or perhaps I was just too busy with family issues to think I could manage that healing. It’s been an interesting journey, an educational experience and one that has made me a better and happier person. Nothing happens by chance; perhaps it was all meant to be.

I figured if cancer could happen to me again with all that I had been doing, I must indeed have missed something and that there was more to do. I encourage you to look deeply within for the root cause of your cancer as I did.

I credit my healing to all of the changes I made. I will never know what, out of all what I did, made the difference, but I truly believe that if I had not healed the mind, I would not have healed the body and would surely see more cancer—that my ‘recovery’ would be yet another Bandaid.

But I also believe that aside from my emotional healing, my high vitamin D3 consumption, my addition of frankincense and my huge consumption of flaxseed and progesterone boosting, anti-cancer herbs put me right over the edge of healing.

I don’t have my head in the clouds—I know I must continue to nourish mind, body and soul and again, always, always have a plan B.

Remember, something works for everyone, but everything does not work for everyone….I share with you my story to give you confidence that there are many ways to heal from cancer.

Elyn

~~If you don’t know your options, you don’t have any~~
Elyn Jacobs is a breast cancer survivor, professional cancer strategist, speaker, and the Executive Director for the Emerald Heart Cancer Foundation. Elyn empowers women to choose the path for treatment that best fits their own individual needs. She is passionate about helping others move forward into a life of health and well-being. Elyn has been featured on CNN Money, Talk About Health, and Breast Cancer Answers, is a Contributing Editor for The Truth About Cancer, and has written for the Pink Paper, Breast Cancer Wellness, Integrative Oncology Essentials, Surviving Beautifully, Body Local and more; she authored the Options for Life column for the Natural Healing-Natural Wellness Magazine. Elyn was creator and host of the Survive and Live Well Radio Show on the Cancer Support Network. She is on the Medical Advisory Board for BeatCancer.Org and is on the Advisory Board to the Radical Remission Project. Elyn lives in New York with her husband and two boys. https://elynjacobs.com/about/

Tune in to the Survive and Live Well Show

Replay the Survive and Live Well Radio Show Archives

Read Elyn’s Blog

Follow Elyn on Facebook

Follow Survive and Live Well on Twitter

Follow Elyn on Linkedin

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Cancer Stem Cells and Progression of Disease: What You Need to Know Now

In Alternative Cancer Therapies, Alternatives Cancer Treatment, Breast Cancer, Cancer, Cancer Coach, chemo and cancer stem cells, chemotherapy, Integrative Oncology, radiation and cancer stem cells, Radiotherapy for breast cancer, Uncategorized, what causes cancer stem cells, what causes cancer to spread on July 8, 2015 at 10:22 am

Could it be that oncologists are missing the key to cancer recurrence and progression?  Could this be why there are so many repeat customers?

For over forty years oncologists have considered tumor reduction and remission as measures of successful treatment.  Are they misguided in placing so much emphasis on this parameter?

During a recent episode of my radio show, Survive and Live Well, Dr Michael Schachter shared his views on Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs)–Cancer Stem Cells are at the forefront of the theory behind the reason conventional treatment often fails.  The following is a summary of the show. To replay the podcast, please visit Cancer Stem Cells.

Dr Schachter explained that the issue of cancer stem cells goes way back to around 1910, though the term wasn’t used then. John Beard MD, PhD, a brilliant Scottish embryologist, proposed the Trophoblastic Theory of Cancer at that time. According to Dr. Beard, during embryological development, 80% of the cells destined to become germ cells migrate to the gonads (male testes and female ovaries). About 20% of these totipotent (immature) germ cells migrate to different areas of the body and remain dormant. These are today’s modern day stem cells that are mobilized to repair damaged tissue.  However, when stem cells become dysregulated (impaired), they can become modern day cancer stem cells. This concept was further developed and brought up to date by cancer clinician and researcher, Nicholas Gonzalez MD, in his brilliant book, The Trophoblast and the Origins of Cancer, which was published in 2010.

Recent research on cancer stem cells has established some amazing facts. Although CSC’s constitute only 1 to 5% of the cancer cells within a tumor, they are the only cancer cells that metastasize to other parts of the body. CSC’s are resistant to radiation and chemotherapy and actually stimulated to grow faster and more vehemently when radiation and/or chemotherapy are used. It is believed that cancer mortality is directly related to cancer stem cell activity (proliferative and metastatic).

Don’t be misled into thinking that tumor reduction guarantees that you are making progress with respect to overcoming the disease, as you may not be. Shrinking a tumor by killing the less damaging cancer cells (the non-stem cells) with chemo and/or radiation may NOT improve long term survival and may increase the likelihood that these cancer stem cells will metastasize, allowing them to regenerate tumors elsewhere in the body. So although you may get an 80% reduction in tumor bulk, you are not targeting the most dangerous of the cells.

Another very important point covered was that CSCs are stimulated to grow by inflammatory factors related to various stressors on the body:

  • Various  psychological losses result in secretion of Interleukin 6, which stimulates the growth of CSCs
  • Trapped emotions can stimulate cancer stem cells to regroup, which is yet another reason emotional stress is undoubtedly a major cause of cancer and it recurrence (see below for remedies)
  • Dying cancer cells emit the cytokines, Interleukin 6 and Interleukin 8, which stimulates cancer stem cells to proliferate. They stimulate normal stem cells to repair tissue damage, but stimulate cancer stem cells to grow

Releasing trapped emotions and eliminating the bonds you have with events and people so you can leave such negative emotions in the past can play a major role in healing.  There are many ways to do this:

  • EFT tapping: a form of psychological acupressure that helps resolve emotional issues, cleaning out past traumas that contribute to dis-ease
  • Psychotherapy: an approach to wellness that recognizes the interconnection between mind, body and spirit
  • Energy work such as Qi Gong, Reiki, meditation, and distant energy healing such as the Oracle Method
  • Emotion Code: an energy technique that helps facilitate the release of trapped negative emotions

While the drug Celebrex, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (or NSAID), inhibits inflammation and reduces stimulation to cancer stem cells, it has many dangerous adverse side effects associated with its use. A similar drug, Vioxx, was taken off the market after causing thousands of heart attacks. Fortunately many relatively non-toxic natural substances block inflammatory stimulation of CSC’s and Dr. Schachter advocates the use of many of these substances for cancer patients. Some examples of anti-inflammatory substances which can be found in capsule or liquid extract form are:

  • Curcumin
  • Thymoquinone from black cumin seed
  • Sulforaphane and other glucosinolates and isothiocyanates from cruciferous vegetables
  • Vitamin D
  • Boswellia or Frankincense
  • Parent Essential Fatty Acids (Linoleic Acid and Alpha Linolenic Acid)
  • Stabilized Aloe Vera extract

For more natural substances that target cancer stem cells, Please read my article Cancer Stem Cells—Could They Be the Key to Metastasis 

 What Other Experts Have To Say

The interesting thing about the recent introduction of the modern Cancer Stem Cell Theory into an understanding of cancer is that it was not developed by the ‘alternative’ world, but by very traditional conventional cancer researchers.  For example, establishment oncologist and researcher Max Wicha MD (a former National Cancer Institute (NCI) researcher and the Founding Director Emeritus of the University of Michigan’s Comprehensive Cancer Center) is a pioneer in research on why cancers recur and spread to other parts of the body and has been a leader in the CSC theory. Dr Wicha has been doing research and conducting clinical trials that specifically target breast cancer stem cells, but he also has an interest in colon cancer and lung cancer as well. He has been involved in cancer research for 30 years and is currently involved with eight clinical trial involving CSCs.  Some of Dr. Wicha’s lectures can be found on YouTube and can be found by searching this site and via the links below. Some of the points made during his lectures are:

  • Standard cancer treatments not only often fail to eradicate cancer, but can sometimes make it worse
  • 30% of breast and prostate CA patients have bone marrow metastases at the time of diagnosis
  • Breast cancer is driven by cancer stem cells
  • Only certain breast cancer cells (CSCs) would develop into cancer in immune suppressed mice
  • Cancer stem cells are dysregulated adult stem cells
  • One approach he has taken in his research with breast cancer stem cells is to develop patentable drugs that block the Interleukin 8 receptors on stromal and cancer stem cells; he thus remains very much in the mainstream of conventional oncology, which is not particularly interested in researching non-patentable natural substances that my play a role in inhibiting cancer stem cells

In at least one newspaper article, the reporter said that Dr Wicha indicated that he hoped breast cancer could be treated without chemotherapy– just making use of medications that target the stem cells. However, he quickly retracted this view and said that breast cancer patients and all cancer patients should follow the conventional standard of care for conventional cancer treatment and then if necessary, look for clinical trials that target cancer stem cells.

At this point in time, Dr. Schachter has not heard much from his cancer patients regarding any discussion about cancer stem cells with their conventional oncologists, many of whom believe this area is at best considered experimental.

With my clients I have also found there to have been a complete omission of the discussion of cancer stem cells with respective oncologists.  I am always amazed that something so vital to successful outcome is not discussed along with a proposed treatment plan.

A few other researchers are doing research in cancer stem cells. One example is Maximilian Diehn MD, PhD of the Stanford University Medical Center who is an acclaimed researcher studying normal and cancer stem cell biology and its implications for cancer therapy.

Brad Weeks MD, who teaches other physicians about insulin potentiation therapy (IPT), a controversial treatment involving the use of insulin and low doses of chemotherapy, believes that no cancer patient should be treated without addressing cancer stem cells. He advocates the use of relatively non-toxic medications, such as Metformin and other anti-inflammatory strategies, such as non-inflammatory diets that avoid sugar and artificial chemicals in food. He also recommends various herbal supplements that are anti-inflammatory and that inhibit cancer stem cells.

Dr. Schachter is not an advocate of IPT at this time, but does utilize many of the anti-inflammatory strategies to inhibit cancer stem cells. He incorporates many relatively non-toxic substances to help the patient prevent and manage cancer without the use of toxic agents. During previous interviews on this program Dr. Schachter has discussed the use of Salvestrols, the use of  fat soluble vitamins (like vitamins D, A and K2 (MK4), a therapeutic diet, stress management, exercise and various other factors that a cancer patient should incorporate into his/her comprehensive program. Please visit the Radio Show Archives for past shows with Dr. Schachter.

Learn more:

  • Cancer stem cells are resistant to radiation (Baker, M Stem cells: Nature. 2009 Apr 23;458(7241):962-5.
  • For more information on energy healers, please visit Alternative and Complementary Therapies

Elyn

             ~~If you don’t know your options, you don’t have any~~

 MEDICAL DISCLAIMER:  Reading the information in this post does not constitute a physician-patient relationship. The information included in this post is for educational purposes only. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider regarding a medical condition or any treatments.

Dr. Michael B. Schachter is a magna cum laude graduate of Columbia College and Columbia P&S Medical School in NYC. He is also a Board Certified Psychiatrist and a Certified Nutrition Specialist. Dr. Schachter has been involved with nutritional and integrative health care for 40 years. A leader in alternative cancer therapies, EDTA chelation and orthomolecular psychiatry, he is a past president of the American College of Advancement in Medicine (ACAM). He has authored numerous articles and was a major contributor to the large chapter about him in Burton Goldberg’s classic “Alternative Medicine Definitive Guide to Cancer”. His published 2010 paper “Integrative Oncology for Clinicians and Cancer Patients” helps to guide patients in developing a cancer treatment program. His latest article published in 2013 entitled “Integrating Nutrition and Selected Controversial Nutritional Supplements into a Cancer Treatment” is an abridged and updated version of his 2010 article. In 2010, Dr. Schachter received the Humanitarian Award from the Cancer Control Society in California. Dr. Schachter is the director of the Schachter Center for Complementary Medicine in Suffern, NY, which is located in Rockland County, about 45 minutes from New York City.

 More information about Dr. Schachter and the Center are available at the Schachter Center Website. Many articles by Dr Schachter can be accessed from this site, including the two articles mentioned above.

Elyn Jacobs is a breast cancer survivor, professional cancer strategist, speaker, and the Executive Director for the Emerald Heart Cancer Foundation. Elyn empowers women to choose the path for treatment that best fits their own individual needs. She is passionate about helping others move forward into a life of health and well-being. Elyn has been featured on CNN Money, Talk About Health, and Breast Cancer Answers, is a contributor to The Truth About Cancer, and has written for the Pink Paper, Breast Cancer Wellness, Integrative Oncology Essentials, Surviving Beautifully, Body Local, Natural Health-Natural Wellness, and more. Elyn hosts the Survive and Live Well Radio Show on the Cancer Support Network. She is on the Medical Advisory Board for BeatCancer.Org and is on the Advisory Board to the Radical Remission Project. Elyn lives in New York with her husband and two young boys. https://elynjacobs.com/about/.

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Recommended Reading List for People with Breast Cancer

In Alternative Cancer Therapies, Alternatives Cancer Treatment, Alternatives to Tamoxifen, Breast Cancer, Healing Cancer Naturally, Hormone Balance, Tamoxifen, Uncategorized on September 26, 2014 at 9:15 am

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and because I strive to spread the word that there are many options, but no one magic bullet for cancer, I would like to share some books that will empower you to be an active participant in your healing.  No one treatment is right for all, and there are options well beyond what we are hearing from our doctors. There is no ‘best’ diet; it is not a question of trying to follow some ideal way of living based on other people’s experiences or insistence.  Each of us is our own unique person, with our very own DNA, mutations, illnesses and restrictions, therefore each of us must find our own solution—a lifestyle and protocol that works for us. We each had our own path to cancer and therefore need our own path to wellness. While you will find that there are many common factors empowered patients have used to recover from cancer, you will find that the ‘answers’ to cancer vary tremendously. The goal is to find a protocol that gives you confidence that you will beat your cancer, survive and live well.

Breast cancer booksThe following books are loaded with useful information and will aid you in your healing:

Radical Remission: Surviving Cancer Against All Odds, by Dr Kelly Turner, PhD.  This is a much overdue book, one that brings awareness and validity to the true extent of radical remissions—remission achieved without the use of conventional medicine or even after conventional medicine has failed. Turner shows that there really is hope, even in situations that seem hopeless.  You will learn that there are options well beyond the ‘white coat’, and that the possibilities for healing are more abundant than we have been told.    I love that Turner explains that there are a vast variety of paths to wellness. She also lists the 9 commonalities that people have used to heal from their cancer–factors such as diet, stress, emotions, spirituality, and others that profoundly affect our health and well-being.  Listen to Dr Turner on my radio show.

Not surprising, my all-time most popular post is the one I wrote a few years ago on Natural Alternatives to Tamoxifen—and there is a reason for this—people want safer options. Never overlook the power of nature’s medicine chest.  You may also want to view my discussion on natural alternatives with Dr Kelly Turner: 

In Waking the Warrior Goddess, Third Edition: Dr. Christine Horner’s Program to Protect Against & Fight Breast Cancer, Dr Horner explores the various foods, supplements and health promoting strategies that can help women to successfully treat and prevent breast cancer. This is an excellent resource book that includes the best explanations of phytoestrogens I have ever read.  Dr Horner explains how many natural substances have been proven to be as effective as or even more effective than pharmaceuticals such as aromatase inhibitors.  Listen to Dr Horner on my radio show–Neglected Breast Cancer Discoveries that Could Save Your Life.

The Whole-Food Guide for Breast Cancer Survivors: A Nutritional Approach to Preventing Recurrence , by Helayne Waldman and Edward Bauman, is an excellent guide for anyone seeking to understand the effect of nutritional and environmental factors on our risk for cancer and its recurrence.  In this book you will learn how to incorporate cancer-fighting foods into your diet, clean up your self-care products, nourish your immune system, detoxify your body, and more. After I first heard Helayne speak at a conference, I immediately purchased this book–and it is fantastic. Listen to Helayne on my show: Modulating Hormones with Diet and Supplements.

More Favorites:

Anticancer-a New Way of Life

Life Over Cancer: The Block Center Program for Integrative Cancer Treatment

The Iodine Crisis: What You Don’t Know About Iodine Can Wreck Your Life

The Etiology of Breast Cancer: Endogenous and Exogenous Causes

The Gene Therapy Plan: Taking Control of Your Genetic Destiny with Diet and Lifestyle

Miracle Survivors: Beating the Odds of Incurable Cancer

For more amazing books, please visit my Shop page

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Breast Cancer Tip: Have you tried rebounding? Rebounding benefits lymphatic circulation by stimulating the millions of one-way valves in the lymphatic system. This benefits the body’s immune capacity for fighting current disease, destroying cancer cells, eliminating antigens and preventing future illness. Rebounding also circulates more oxygen to the tissues (cancer hates oxygen), boosts the production of red blood cells, improves digestion and elimination, aids mental clarity, curtails fatigue and provides a host of other benefits.  Plus, it’s good exercise, fun, and doesn’t have to be expensive–I have this one and it’s only about $60: Sunny Health & Fitness 40″ Foldable Trampoline with Bar.

I honestly do not believe that there is anyone out there who is not aware of breast cancer.  We’ve all been affected in some way—mother, brother, sister, aunt, self—sadly the statistics are now that one in every three women will face breast cancer. Dedicating a month won’t change this much, but I do feel it helps people to bond, and I am sure that helps some to heal.  And while the hype for all these ‘months’ is likely generated to bring in more donations—little of which will go towards bringing us the elusive cure, my hope is that the money gets to the right organizations where it can be effective.
Elyn

~~If you don’t know your options, you don’t have any~~

Elyn Jacobs is a breast cancer survivor, professional cancer strategist, speaker, and the Executive Director for the Emerald Heart Cancer Foundation. Elyn empowers women to choose the path for treatment that best fits their own individual needs. She is passionate about helping others move forward into a life of health and well-being. Elyn has been featured on CNN Money, Talk About Health, and Breast Cancer Answers and has written for the Pink Paper, Breast Cancer Wellness, Integrative Oncology Essentials, Surviving Beautifully, Body Local and more, and writes the Options for Life column for the Natural Healing-Natural Wellness Magazine. Elyn hosts the Survive and Live Well Radio Show on the Cancer Support Network. She is on the Medical Advisory Board for BeatCancer.Org and is on the Advisory Board to the Radical Remission Project.  Elyn lives in New York with her husband and two young boys. https://elynjacobs.com/about/

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Natural Alternatives to Tamoxifen

In Alternative Cancer Therapies, Alternatives Cancer Treatment, Alternatives to Tamoxifen, aromatase inhibitors, BPA and breast cancer, Breast Cancer, Healing Cancer Naturally, Hormone Balance, Tamoxifen, Uncategorized on January 15, 2012 at 7:39 pm

Over the past few months I have been asked many times if I know of a natural substitute for Tamoxifen.  I apologize that it has taken me so long to write this post, but it has required extensive research and obtaining the knowledge of many experts.  Many are not convinced that Tamoxifen is the wonder drug it is made out to be.  I am one of those people.  However, it is not my opinion that matters.  My job is to give you information and options, not opinions.  There are many others who believe that Tamoxifen is a beneficial drug. You and you alone can decide what is best for you, for your needs and concerns.

Tamoxifen is a synthetic drug that competes with estrogens for binding to the estrogen receptors in the body.  When estrogens bind the estrogen receptors in the cells of the breast or uterus, for example, this activates cell growth and division.  When Tamoxifen occupies the estrogen receptor in place of an estrogen, it paralyzes the receptor, preventing it from triggering the events that result in cell division.  It does not kill cancer cells, but in some respect, puts them to sleep or disables them.  Scientists call this a cytostatic drug; the word cytotoxic means toxic to cells, or cell-killing. However, Tam does not kill the cancer cells, but rather only stops them from growing; therefore there is no offer for a cure, only a band-aid.  When you remove the band-aid, the cells can then begin to divide again.  Tamoxifen also comes with a host of potential side effects so many doctors suggest a time limit of five years, after which the negatives may outweigh the positives.

Okay, so is there a natural substitute for Tamoxifen?  The short answer is no. Many women seek out a natural replacement for this drug, but the replacement is really an overall lifestyle approach – including diet, exercise, stress management, avoidance of toxins and adding the support of herbs and supplements. In other words, the best thing really is to follow an anti-cancer strategy.  In doing so, you will naturally incorporate an anti-estrogen strategy.  Your endocrine and immune systems will be in balance and you will be optimizing the other systems in your body to join you in your defense of cancer. However there are some things you can concentrate on.

The first thing you can do to reduce estrogen is to avoid unnecessary exposure to hormone- influencing toxins.  Be aware that most commercial home, garden and beauty products contain hormone-like compounds in them.  Purchase safer, chemical-free products, and please, do not use plastic containers or plastic wrap in the microwave (better yet, toss the micro, but that is a story for another day) and avoid BPA exposure as much as possible.

View my video on Natural Alternatives to Tamoxifen—Dr Kelly Turner, PhD interviews Elyn Jacobs for The Radical Remission Project. Update added 1/19/14

You may also want to read my updated version of Natural Alternatives to Aromatase Inhibitors 

Exercise and maintaining a healthy weight play a crucial role in cancer prevention.  Exercise helps to reduce excess estrogen from the body and being overweight boosts the body’s estrogen levels.  Obesity increases the body’s insulin levels and insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) that have a growth promoting effect on cells, especially on cancerous cells. Further, recent studies have proven that overweight and obese women have higher levels of inflammation, which provides a cancer promoting environment in the body. Try to exercise for at least 30-45 minutes a day. Any exercise is better than none, but a brisk walk or run will give you more protection.

           “Let Food be thy Medicine, and Medicine be thy Food”    Hippocrates

Hippocrates was right, and in this case, specific food choices and supplements offer natural ways to inhibit cancer growth and balance hormones.

Flaxseed–The lignans in flax are phytoestrogens, but they actually bind to estrogen receptors in the body and work a bit like Tamoxifen, as they hop on the estrogen and bind up these hormones and carcinogens and remove them from the body.  Although lignans are found in most unrefined grains (barley, buckwheat, millet and oats), soybeans, and some vegetables (broccoli, carrots, cauliflower and spinach), flaxseed is the richest source.  I recommend eating 2 tablespoons freshly ground flaxseed daily. If you are unable to eat 2-3 Tbs daily, I recommend a supplement: Brevail Proactive Breast Health Capsules. I have written many articles on the benefits of flaxseed.

Love your liver—No, not liver, your liver. Your body depends on a fully-functioning liver to break down and eliminate hormones and toxins in the body. Calcium d-glucurate, a natural ingredient found in certain vegetables and fruits that helps detoxify the liver and promote estrogen metabolism.  Vegetables rich in glucaric acid include those in the cruciferous family (broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, brussels sprouts, kale, etc. –please eat several servings of these every day), as well as in the gourd (think squash, watermelon and pumpkins).  For fruits, look for oranges and apples, and consider legumes such as peas, lentils and bean sprouts. Calcium d-glucurate can also be found in supplement form. Silymarin or milk thistle also prevents damage to the liver by acting as an antioxidant and enhancing the detoxification process.  NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine) is also a liver fortifier and detoxification tool.  (NAC is also useful in the removal of the lead and mercury from dental fillings as well as the toxins in paint). Limit alcohol and avoid drugs that can damage the liver.

Adding bitter greens, such as arugula and chicory, to salads will also help the liver excrete excess hormones.  (Arugula is also a member of the cruciferous family)

Pomegranate— are a potent source phytonutrients, and antioxidants like polyphenols, ellagitannins (ellagic acid), tannins and anthocyanins.  These compounds are strong free-radical fighters, providing added protection against cellular damage, and research has suggested that these phytochemicals may suppress estrogen.  Researchers now believe that it is specifically the ellagic acid in pomegranates that inhibits aromatase, the key enzyme used by the body to make estrogen.  Thus, as breast and ovarian cancers require estrogen to grow, AIs are offered to either block the production of estrogen or block the action of estrogen on receptors; pomegranates and their bioactive metabolites may act as a natural aromatase inhibitor. Other sources of Ellagic acid are raspberries and Marion berries.

Please note: I do not suggest that you take ellagic acid supplements, but rather whole food sources of Ellagitannin.  When you eat foods that contain ellagitannins, your body converts these ellagitannins into ellagic acid much in the same way your body converts Beta-carotene into vitamin A.  When you eat beta-carotene rich foods, you get the full benefit of Vitamin A without the potential health risks of the synthetic form of vitamin A.  The same is true for Ellagic Acid which is not as available to the body and comes with potential side effects, such as high blood pressure.

Limit Caffeine– Those who consumed at least 500 mg of caffeine daily, the equivalent of four or five cups of coffee had nearly 70% more estrogen than women who consumed less than 100 mg of caffeine daily.

Choose only organic animal products from grass-fed livestock that has not been fed estrogen, progesterone or testosterone.  Fats from milk and meat are loaded with estrogen, but at least try to avoid products with added hormones.

Eat apples, every day.  Quercetin, found in apples, red wine, onions, and green tea, has anti-estrogenic effects and may reduce the metastatic potential of cancer cells. Red wine you say?  Yes, many studies show red wine may lower estrogen levels.

Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a phytonutrient and plant indole found in cruciferous vegetables including broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower and kale, with many powerful anticancer properties. Dim also promotes  estrogen metabolism.  Estrogen can be metabolized in two different pathways in the liver, which results in two different kinds of estrogen, “good” and “bad” estrogen. “Good” estrogen metabolites are released into the bloodstream there they cause many of the benefits estrogen provides, such as prevention of heart disease, and strong, healthy bones. “Bad” estrogen, in large quantities, can result in many health problems including autoimmune disorders, breast cancer, cervical dysplasia, fibroid tumors, magnesium deficiency, osteoporosis, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, and zinc deficiency. ***Please read the following articles for updates on DIM, posted April 8th 2013 —DIM-New Thoughts on an Old Story. and  posted October 31, 2013 DIM: A Bright New View on Cancer Management .  My recommendation for DIM.

Manage Stress—the adrenal gland is where stress is expressed.  Chronic stress leading to adrenal fatigue is a leading cause of progesterone depletion and thus estrogen dominance.  Stress, per se, is not the true enemy, but rather how we respond to it.  For more on stress and cancer, please read my article on changing the cancer environment.

My post on Chinese Herbal Medicine highlighted the point that CHM looks to individually assess each person’s condition, identifying excesses, deficiencies, and imbalances – as understood within the TCM diagnostic framework – and to prescribe a combination of herbs to bring the system as a whole back into balance. With that said, a lot of research has been done on the physiological effects of various herbs, particularly on estrogen and other hormones, so a visit with an herbalist might be a good part of an anti-estrogen strategy.

Simply put, estrogen can be reduced or managed using exercise, diet and relaxation modalities, but there is not one magic bullet.  That said, I know I have mentioned embracing  the cruciferous family, but I cannot stress this enough….raw or lightly cooked is best, juicing fantastic, and freeze-dried fine if that is the only way to get them.  One option is the use of super-food powders. Supplements are a great way to bridge the gap between great intentions and actually getting the nutrients and enzymes we need (just remember, supplements are intended to accompany a good diet, not replace one.)  Take time for yourself everyday for exercise, laughter, relaxation and love, and benefit from a monthly massage.  Embrace every day and remind yourself everyday that you matter, that you deserve to be loved and cared for.

Please understand that nothing in this post represents medical advice, and I encourage you to discuss this information with your integrative oncologist or naturopathic doctor. I have compiled this information solely for those seeking an alternative to Tamoxifen and cannot endorse either protocol.

Herbal Medicine, and Healing Cancer , by Dr Donald Yance, is an excellent resource for balancing hormones and healing cancer naturally, as well as for support during conventional cancer treatments.

You may also be interested in Natural Alternatives to Aromatase Inhibitors.  and Natural Alternatives to Hormone Therapy for Breast Cancer

This article was updated 11/3/2019

In your good health,

Elyn

~If you don’t know your options, you don’t have any~~

ej portrait 150res for PrueElyn Jacobs is a breast cancer survivor and holistic cancer strategist who helps people make healthier, less-toxic choices for their healing. She emphasizes the importance of not just surviving cancer, but surviving well and reducing the risk of recurrence. She is a Contributing Editor for The Truth About Cancer and is on the Medical Advisory Board for BeatCancer.Org and the Advisory Board to the Radical Remission Project. Elyn has written for numerous journals and publications. She was the former Executive Director of the Emerald Heart Cancer Foundation and the creator and host of the Survive and Live Well Radio Show. To contact Elyn, visit www.elynjacobs.com. Elyn offers consults via Skype, phone, or in-person. Elyn does not provide online advice.

DISCLAIMER:
Elyn Jacobs does not provide medical advice. The information provided is for general information only. No online site should be used as a substitute for personal medical attention.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a recommendation to forgo medical advice and treatment.  This post is not intended to treat, cure, prevent, or diagnose any disease or condition. This post does not represent medical advice nor should it be considered to be medical advice or a replacement for medical advice.  I encourage you to discuss this information with your integrative oncologist, naturopathic doctor, or conventional oncologist. The information provided is from my research and not to be taken as scientific evidence.

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