A Holistic Strategy Against Cancer

March 10, 2008

Good article . . .

Wednesday, February 13, 2008 by: Laredo (see all articles by this

author)

| Key concepts: cancer, oxygen and nutrition

(NaturalNews) In 1971, President Nixon declared a war on cancer. In the

ensuing decades, tens of billions of dollars have been spent on the

cause yet a cure by orthodox means remains elusive. By any standards

this campaign has been a failed endeavor; or worse, a shameful fraud.

Progress is a myth, and sustaining hope for the development of a safe

and effective cancer drug is pointless. It's up to each individual to

empower themselves with knowledge of the myriad ways to eradicate cancer

without harming the body. Although it's easier to prevent cancer than to

reverse it once it has taken hold, it is nevertheless reversible with

holistic therapies that address imbalances of the body, mind and spirit.

This is not an opinion; it is a statement of fact that's based on this

author's first-hand experience.

A comprehensive approach to healing cancer includes at least the

following eight factors:

1. Proper nutrition and clean water

2. Detoxification

3. Immune building

4. Oxygen therapy

5. Natural chemotherapies

6. Lifestyle changes: adequate sleep, sunlight & exercise

7. A positive attitude

8. Spiritual cleansing

Regardless of the cancer's aggressiveness, the body will respond to this

holistic approach - the speed and degree to which it does so is

commensurate with the diligence and extent to which these eight factors

are applied. No cancer treatment, conventional or otherwise, comes with

an iron-clad guarantee; however, it's important to consider that

orthodox treatments ravage the body and ignore the underlying causes

while alternative treatments strengthen the body and address its healing

requirements. Reason and logic side with alternative therapies.

These guidelines are merely an overview of what a comprehensive holistic

protocol would include. The term " cancer survivor " refers to those who

have been diagnosed with the disease and are still alive – whether

they are in remission or not. The cancer survivor should adopt as many

of these strategies as is feasible, slowly incorporating them into one's

lifestyle and working with a naturopath if necessary. A holistic healer

can be located through the help of a reputable chiropractor,

acupuncturist or other practitioner of the healing arts. A health food

store may also provide contacts.

It's useful to determine whether the body's chronic stressors include

specific nutritional deficiencies, absorption problems and/or the burden

of toxic heavy metals. This insight is possible through analysis of

hair, urine or blood, and will help determine which supplements and

therapies will enhance treatment. Without addressing these conditions,

optimum healing may be delayed or prevented.

1. Nutrition

Proper nutrition and pure filtered water is critical to a successful

anti-cancer strategy. Diet alone can make or break the effectiveness of

any cancer treatment and is therefore the most important strategic

point. Knowing which foods feed cancer cells, which interfere with the

treatment, and which assist in healing is vital.

Refined sugar feeds and strengthens cancer cells and should be the first

substance to be eliminated. Sugar substitutes, refined flour and trans

fatty acids damage the body and numerous studies link them to cancer.

Dairy and all mucus-forming foods should also be avoided (1). Processed

foods, carbonated beverages, coffee, alcohol, chlorine and fluoride fall

into the category of foods and substances that interfere with healing

and may fuel the cancer's growth. Conversely, a diet of nutrient-rich

foods will enhance all levels of the healing process.

All plant foods contain nutrients that aid healing. Herbs, fruits and

vegetables have properties that protect against and inhibit the

proliferation of cancer while strengthening, cleansing and repairing the

body (2). These include green leafy vegetables, cruciferous vegetables

(broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, etc.), sea vegetables, fruits

(especially berries and dark grapes with seeds and skins), garlic,

ginger, turmeric and green tea, among many others. A diet containing an

abundance of organic plant foods provides layers of nutritional

protection.

Concentrated fats from flax oil and olive oil may be used unheated while

coconut oil can be used for cooking. Although these healthy oils as well

as fats from whole foods such as avocados, nuts and seeds provide the

essential fatty acids necessary for oxygenation of cells (3), they

should nevertheless be kept to a minimum (approximately 15% of diet)

since fat slows digestion and in large quantities may accelerate tumor

growth (4). Once the cancer is stabilized this restriction may be

relaxed.

Animal protein should be eliminated if possible; however, we are all of

different constitutions, so for those who must consume flesh, it should

be restricted to small amounts of organic, pasture-fed beef or poultry,

and wild-caught fish. Beans and legumes are an excellent source of fiber

and many important nutrients and may be consumed in moderation.

While whole grains also contain fiber and nutrients, there is

disagreement among experts as to their place in a healing diet. Due in

part to their sugar and gluten content, and the digestive load they

place on the body already burdened by cancer, they should be eliminated

or restricted to gluten-free varieties, at least until the condition is

stable. Likewise, natural sweeteners such as honey and maple syrup

should also be restricted while cancer remains active. The herb stevia

is a safe sweetener.

The cancer survivor should aim for a diet that is at least 80% raw. This

will ensure an alkaline environment as well as an ample supply of

enzymes for healing processes. Oral supplementation of digestive enzymes

with meals and systemic enzymes on an empty stomach will further aid

healing.

2. Detoxification

Effective healing requires the removal of accumulated toxins and

metabolic wastes. Being mindful to eliminate or minimize the ingestion

of processed foods, substances, and environmental toxins that inhibit

the healing process is of primary importance. It's also beneficial to

begin a healing regimen with a cleanse of the kidneys, liver and colon

to remove stored toxins. There are many effective cleansing formulas and

procedures that can be found at health food stores, the internet, or

through a holistic healer.

In addition to consciously avoiding toxic exposure and cleansing the

organs of elimination, there are various therapies and practices that

will help purify the body. Some include daily stretching to release

acids from tissues; rebounding on a mini-trampoline to move lymph fluid,

flush waste, and increase the number and activity of white blood cells

(5); perspiring in a sauna to purge toxins through the skin; juicing to

alkalize and cleanse tissues, and castor oil packs to enhance

circulation, stimulate the immune system and aid in detoxification (6).

Toxic build-up can also be released through fasting, which helps to heal

and rejuvenate the body. The practice of coffee enemas should also be

considered since it prevents the reabsorption of toxins, cleanses the

blood and liver, and counteracts the symptoms of a potential healing

crisis(4, 6). To be clear on how to proceed with a fast or enema it may

be necessary to speak with a health care professional.

3. Immune Building

The immune system is our body's natural defense against harmful

substances and abnormal cell development. Any cell within the body can

mutate in response to negative stressors, but a healthy immune system

will stop its growth and defend against an uncontrollable malignancy.

There are various groups of white blood cells that possess an innate

intelligence for healing. Their functions include identifying,

attacking, destroying and finally removing abnormal cells through the

body's lymph system and organs of elimination. Strategies to strengthen

and build these natural defenses to prevent or treat cancer include a

diet rich in nutrient-dense foods and supplementation. Chlorella,

mushroom extracts, aloe vera, and milk thistle are just a few of the

many supplements that strengthen the body's natural defenses.

4. Oxygen

The more toxic the body, the less oxygen is delivered to cells. Oxygen

starvation at the cellular level leads to disease; in fact, it's an

undisputed fact that cancer cells cease to grow when blood and tissues

are sufficiently oxygenated (3). There are many ways to oxygenate the

body, including a highly alkaline diet (80% raw).

This raises the body's internal PH which enhances the transport of

oxygen to cells. Regular exercise, deep breathing, and adequate

consumption of pure water are other simple methods to increase oxygen

uptake. Ozone, which is activated oxygen, may be used therapeutically in

the home by drinking ozonated water and using ozone saunas. Hospitals in

Mexico, Europe and Malaysia administer intravenous ozone infusions with

great success. There are also clinics in the United States; however,

they operate under threat of FDA reprisal and confiscation of ozone

equipment. For more information about oxygen therapies and ozone visit

(www.oxygenhealth.com) , (www.colecenter.com) , and

(www.ozonehospital.com) .

5. Natural Chemotherapies

There are many natural, non-toxic chemotherapies that directly or

indirectly kill malignancies. None of them are stand-alone treatments

however, and should be considered as one component of a comprehensive

protocol. Amygdalin, also known as laetrile or vitamin B17, selectively

targets and destroys cancer cells while healthy cells remain unharmed.

The substance is naturally occurring in many plant foods, including

apple seeds, bitter almonds and apricot pits, and may also be obtained

through oral supplements or administered intravenously. Four decades

worth of clinical evidence and case studies attest to its efficacy (9).

Supplements may be found online, and many hospitals in Mexico and Europe

administer intravenous laetrile; however, the FDA has deemed this

therapy illegal in the States. Other treatments that indirectly kill

cancer cells include shark liver oil, shark cartilage and melatonin, all

of which cut off the blood supply to tumors.

6. Lifestyle Changes

Deep, restful sleep is an important part of an effective healing

strategy. During sleep our bodies undergo the processes of rebuilding,

detoxifying and healing. The liver works during the deepest level of

sleep, the delta level, to break down and eliminate carcinogens.

Additionally, sleeping in complete darkness contributes to healthy

levels of melatonin, a hormone secreted by the pineal gland that

promotes restful sleep (6). Eating three hours before sleep, especially

protein, should be avoided since it diverts the body's healing efforts

to digestion. The value of adequate sleep should not be overlooked

because without it our healing efforts will be compromised.

Other lifestyle changes include sunlight exposure and daily exercise.

Research links lack of sunlight to certain cancers and vitamin D from

sunlight has been shown to shrink tumors (7, 8). Adequate exposure

during the early morning or late afternoon hours is the safest way to

obtain the restorative benefits of sunlight. The darker one's

pigmentation, the more exposure is necessary. Avoid over-exposure during

the hottest part of the day as sunburns can damage skin and promote

cancer.

Regular exercise speeds up the elimination of toxins and is necessary to

keep the body oxygenated and to improve lymphatic function while

building immunity. These therapeutic benefits can be achieved through

moderate exercise at least three times per week and gradually increasing

duration and/or intensity as new thresholds are reached.

The body, through its resilience, will heal itself when given what it

needs. Its sustenance however is not the end of the story. Addressing

the mind and emotions is the second component of the holistic approach

that should not be overlooked.

7. A Positive Attitude

Developing a positive attitude will reduce psychological stress and

profoundly aid the healing process. A cancer survivor can achieve this

in part by becoming proactive through researching alternative options.

This is an empowering strategy and gives one a firm sense of control.

There are innumerable books and websites that outline alternative cancer

therapies. One of many extensive sites and a good place to begin

research is (www.cancertutor.com) .

There are also many inspiring books and success stories written by

cancer survivors - including A Cancer Battle Plan by Anne Frahm, The

No-Dairy Breast Cancer Prevention Program by Jane Plant, Ph.D., and

Cancer: Curing the Incurable Without Surgery, Chemotherapy or Radiation,

by Dr. D. Kelley, DDS, to name but three. These encouraging

stories give one a strong sense of hope which is essential for survival.

Each individual has the power to control their own thoughts and

attitudes, thereby creating their reality. A constructive outlook

perceives a cancer diagnosis as a necessary life-changing event and an

opportunity to transform one's life.

8. Spiritual Cleansing

Spirituality is the third aspect of the holistic paradigm and refers to

our sense of peace. It involves settling unresolved conflicts, forgiving

and asking forgiveness, liberating toxic emotions such as anger,

bitterness, hatred, resentment, regret, and fear, while embracing our

capacity for love, compassion and joy. Spiritual cleansing is a process

that can be achieved through various means, including meditation,

affirmations, visualization and/or prayer.

These strategies should be embraced by the cancer survivor as permanent

lifestyle changes. Occasional diversions are to be expected, but one

should try not to lose focus. Although it may at times be difficult to

remain faithful to the holistic protocol, its benefits over conventional

treatments are beyond measure. Furthermore, the regimen becomes

increasingly rewarding once healing begins and measurable results are

achieved. The holistic protocol creates a physical, emotional and

spiritual environment that simply will not support cancer.

References:

1. Plant, Ph.D., J.: The No-Dairy Breast Cancer Prevention Program. NY,

NY: St. 's Press, 84-113, 2000

2. Liu, M.D., McManus, M.S., R.D., and Carlino, J.: Healing Gourmet, Eat

to Fight Cancer. New York, NY, McGraw-Hill, 53-147, 2006

3. McCabe, Ed: Flood Your Body With Oxygen: Therapy For Our Polluted

World. 6th Edition. Energy Publications, 68-9, 2003

4. Gerson, C. and , M.: The Gerson Therapy. NY, NY: Kensington

Publishing Corp., 154-77; 190-2, 2001

5. , : Rebounding and Your Immune System. Urbana, OH: Vitally

Yours Press, 13-46, 2003

6. Yance, : Herbal Medicine, Healing and Cancer. NY, NY:

McGraw-Hill, 268-70; 242-4, 1999

7. Diamond, M.D., W. , and Cowden, M.D., W. Lee: Cancer Diagnosis,

What To Do Next. Tiburon, CA: Alternative Medicine.com, Inc., 313-16,

2000

8. Last, Walter: The Natural Way to Heal. Charlottesville, VA: Hampton

Roads Publishing Co., 348-9, 2004

9. , G. : World Without Cancer, The Story of Vitamin B17.

Westlake Village, CA: American Media 16th printing, 115-36, 2001

About the author

Laredo is an artist, educator and gallery curator who lives and

works in Detroit, MI. As a breast cancer survivor who shunned

conventional treatment, she is writing a book about her experience with

natural therapies and nutritional healing. Visit

http://marylaredo.blogspot.com

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