by THOMAS on Apr 3, 2012 • 1:11 am
All of us carry cancer cells within us, even if only a few. We have an immune system that is usually capable of preventing these cells from becoming an aggressive disease. In addition we have bodily functions that control inflammation and the ability to consume foods that reduce the growth of blood vessels needed by tumors. It is estimated that more than one third (1/3) of americans will develop detectable cancer. But nearly two thirds will not due to their immune systems ability to keep the disease from taking hold.
The incidence of cancer is on the rise and more so in the United States than in any other country for two reasons: inicreased exposure and the fact that in far too many americans, their immune system is breaking down. It is interesting to note that Asian countries have not experienced the same trends. Yet within a generation or two, Asian Americans experience cancer rates similar to those of Caucasian Americans. This tells us that it is not all about genetics as at most, genetics factors represent only 15% of our cancer risk.
What determines the other 85% of our risk is what we do….or do not do enough of…..with our lives.
When it comes to surviving cancer once it is diagnosed, there are several options. One can not deny the success of conventional treatments: surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and coming soon to a neighborhood near you, molecular genetics. However, do not overlook the importance of complimentary medicine, which is showing increasing promise in the treatment of a number of chronic disease processes. But all of these treatments whether traditional or non target the tumor much like an army wages war: by killing the enemy. They do NOT prevent the disease or keep it from coming back. For prevention, you need to change the environment that surrounds cancer cells.
It is generally agreed that cancer occurs and grows much faster under three (3) circumstances: 1. A weakened immune system; 2. low grade chronic inflammation; 3. When tumors are allowed to develop new blood vessels.
So, building a strong immune system, reducing inflammation, and reducing the growth of new blood vessels, helps to creat an anticancer environment. Research, increasingly supports this exact approach.
The following are some tips on creating a fierce cancer prevention program:
• Herbs and spices: mint, thyme, sage, rosemary, tumeric, basil and ginger
• Omega-3 fatty acids: salmon, walnuts, sardines, green vegetables, mackeral
• Garlic, leeks, onions
• Cruciferous vegetables: broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage
• Berries: Raspberries, blueberries, blackberries
• DARK chocolate: DARK chocolate!!!
• Beverages: green teas, pomegranate juice, red wine (pinot noir)
• Stress management: deep breathing, yoga, zen, meditation, relaxing music
• Movement: get up off your dead ass and move! You can not survive this life without some form of exercise.
• Avoid exposure: to any toxic substances in your home such as cleaning products, plastics, teflon, heated plastics that release bisphenol A.
Ask yourself the question, What is it that I am doing with my life to make my body a tougher target for cancer?
I have learned in my journey to wellness that the best way to go on living is to nourish life at all levels: through meals, through walks in nature, through the purpose of my work, through the flow of love in relationships, through the protection of the environment. And yes this will slow down the incidence of cancer, but even more important, it will bring into your lives a new light and a new meaning.
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