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How to Eat to Reduce Cancer Risk

AHA Publisher — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 08:00:30 +0000

Michael Greger M.D. FACLM via Nutrition Facts – What does the best available balance of evidence say right now about what to eat and what to avoid to reduce your risk of cancer? In 1982, a landmark report on diet, nutrition, and cancer was released by the National Academy of Sciences. It was “the first major, institutional, science-based report on this topic.” The report started out saying that “scientists must be especially careful in their choice of words whenever they are not totally confident about their conclusions.” For example, by that time, it had become “absolutely clear” that cigarettes were killing people. “If the population been persuaded to stop smoking when the association with lung cancer was first reported, these cancer deaths would not be occurring.” If you wait for absolute certainty, millions of people could die in the meantime, which is why, sometimes, you have to invoke the precautionary principle. For example, “emphasizing fruits and vegetables to reduce the risk of several common forms of cancer.” We’re not completely sure, but there’s good evidence—and what’s the downside? “There are no disadvantages for healthy people eating more fruits and vegetables,” as I discuss in my video The Best Advice on Diet and Cancer. The 1982 National Academy of Sciences report continued: “The public is now asking about the causes of cancers that are not associated with smoking. What are these causes, and how can these cancers be avoided? Unfortunately, it is not yet possible to make firm scientific pronouncements about the association between diet and cancer. We are in an interim stage of knowledge similar to that for cigarettes 20 years ago. Therefore, in the judgment of the committee, it is now the time to offer some interim guidelines on diet and cancer.” The committee raised concern about processed meats, for example, and, 30 years later, that concern was confirmed. Processed meat was officially declared “carcinogenic to humans.” Maybe if we had listened back in the early 1980s when the red flag first started waving, then we would have been spared Lunchables, about which a CEO of Philip Morris said: “One article said something like, ‘If you take Lunchables apart, the most healthy item in it is the napkin.’” The findings of this landmark 1982 diet and cancer report “generated a striking level of disbelief from the cancer community and outright hostility from people whose livelihood depended on foods in question and the food industry whose products were being questioned.” In fact, one of the authors of the report was “accused of ‘killing more people than those being saved,’” and there were formally organized petitions to expel the researchers from their professional societies. Indeed, “clearly a very sensitive nerve was touched.” The American Meat Science Association and other members of the Council for Agricultural Science and Technology criticized the report and released “Diet, Nutrition, and Cancer: A Critique” in 1982. They agreed that perhaps lives would be saved, but argued that the recommended “reductions in meat consumption would sharply reduce incomes to the livestock and meat processing industries….The fruit and vegetable industries would clearly benefit from the expanded demand for their products if consumers were to implement the guidelines. However, fruits and vegetables account for less than 15 percent of cash receipts for U.S. agriculture.” Most of the money is in “cattle, hogs, poultry products, feed grains, and oil crops.” This reminds me of the tobacco industry memo where Philip Morris spoke of the tobacco industry going bankrupt. Maybe it’s not the meat that’s causing cancer, the industry critique continued, but all the marijuana people are smoking these days. “How then can one argue that such an abundant diet causes cancer? Or is this only some jealous attack on the goodness of our diet, like that of the Reverend Jonathan Edwards in Puritan times who condemned bear baiting, not because of the pain for the bear but because of the pleasure of the spectators.” You can’t tell us to cut down on meat, they argued, “one of mankind’s few remaining pleasures is that of the table.” The day the National Academy of Sciences’ landmark report was published was “The Day That Food Was Declared a Poison” according to Thomas Jukes, the guy who discovered you could speed up the growth of chickens by feeding them antibiotics. How dare the National Academy of Sciences recommend people eat fruits, vegetables, and whole grains daily, which were said to contain “as yet unidentified compounds that may protect us against certain cancers. How can one select foods that contain unidentified compounds?…This is not a scientific recommendation; it sounds like ‘health food store’ literature.” My favorite critique, though, told us to think about the human breast. How can animal fat be bad for us if breast-feeding women create so much of it? Women are animals, and their mammary glands make fat for breast milk. Therefore, we shouldn’t have to cut down on burgers. Huh? Enough of that. What does the latest science tell us about nutrition and cancer? I’ve just talked about eating more fruits and vegetables. What are the other five recommendations that invoke the precautionary principle? Consumption of soy products may not only reduce the risk of getting breast cancer, but also increase chances of surviving it. In terms of dietary guidance suggestions on foods to cut down on, where evidence is sufficiently compelling, recommendations included “limiting or avoiding dairy products to reduce the risk of prostate cancer; limiting or avoiding alcohol to reduce the risk of cancers of the mouth, pharynx [throat], larynx, esophagus, colon, rectum, and breast; avoiding red and processed meat to reduce the risk of cancers of the colon and rectum; [and] avoiding grilled, fried, and broiled meats to reduce the risk of cancers of the colon, rectum, breast, prostate, kidney, and pancreas.” In this context, the researchers are talking about all meat, including poultry and fish. Look, we all have to make dietary decisions every day and “cannot wait for the evolution of scientific consensus.” Until we know more, all we can do to protect ourselves and our families is “act on the best available evidence” we have right now. The level of evidence required to make decisions depends on the level of risk. If we’re talking about a new drug, for example, given the fact that medications kill more than a hundred thousand Americans a year—which is Why Prevention Is Worth a Ton of Cure—you want to be darn sure that the benefits outweigh the risks before you prescribe or take a drug. But what level of evidence do you need to eat broccoli? Do you need randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials? (How would you even design a placebo vegetable?) Even if all of the evidence suggesting how powerful broccoli is turned out to be some crazy cruciferous conspiracy, what’s the worst that could have happened? It’s healthy anyway! That’s the beauty of safe, simple, and side effect–free solutions provided by the lifestyle medicine approach. They can only help. I have so many more videos on diet and cancer for you. How Not to Die from Cancer may be a good place to start before you check out some more in related videos. Key Takeaways Waiting for absolute scientific certainty may result in avoidable disease and even death. For example, had no-smoking efforts taken off when the association between smoking and lung cancer was first reported, instead of waiting for the link to be “absolutely clear,” lives could have been saved. The National Academy of Sciences released a landmark report on diet, nutrition, and cancer in 1982, which included interim guidance. Concerns were raised about processed meats, which were confirmed three decades later. Processed meat has been officially declared “carcinogenic to humans.” The 1982 report’s findings “generated a striking level of disbelief from the cancer community and outright hostility from people whose livelihood depended on foods in question and the food industry whose products were being questioned.” Invoking the precautionary principle, the latest science tells us to eat more fruits and vegetables, consume soy products to reduce breast cancer risk and increase chances of survival, and encourages “limiting or avoiding dairy products to reduce the risk of prostate cancer; limiting or avoiding alcohol to reduce the risk of cancers of the mouth, pharynx, larynx, esophagus, colon, rectum, and breast; avoiding red and processed meat to reduce the risk of cancers of the colon and rectum; [and] avoiding grilled, fried, and broiled meats to reduce the risk of cancers of the colon, rectum, breast, prostate, kidney, and pancreas.” In this context, the researchers are talking about all meat, including poultry and fish. We don’t have to wait, nor should we wait, for scientific consensus. We can and should “act on the best available evidence” we have right now. The beauty of safe, simple, and side effect–free solutions provided by the lifestyle medicine approach is that they can only help. To read the original article click here.

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Jasmine Tea Benefits for Skin, Brain & Heart Health (Plus How to Make It)

AHA Publisher — Mon, 13 Dec 2021 08:00:13 +0000

Jillian Levy, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Records show that starting in the late 1300s during the China’s Ming dynasty, jasmine tea became one of the most popular teas in Asia. It was also one of the first flavored teas to be exported out of China to the West and today still remains a very sought-after tea worldwide. Is it as healthy as other teas? Not only does it have a soothing aroma and soft, floral taste, but benefits of jasmine tea include its ability to fight inflammation, protect cells from oxidative stress and support a healthy metabolism. What Is Jasmine Tea? What is jasmine tea made out of? It’s typically a type of green tea that’s made with the addition of steeped jasmine flowers. Jasmine plants are members of the olive family, also called the Oleaceaeplant family. The flowers used to make this type of are usually derived from two related plant species: “Common Jasmine” (Jasminum officinale) or “Sampaguita “(Jasminum sambac). These plants are native to the Middle East, including Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan. Jasmine is considered to be a health-promoting, anti-inflammatory teabecause it contains antioxidants, including polyphenols. Polyphenols like EGCG have been shown to have free radical-scavenging abilities and other beneficial effects that help protect cells and tissues throughout the body. What is the taste of jasmine tea? It’s described as having a soothing, light, floral and clean but somewhat perfumed taste. Other traits used to describe the overall flavor profile include: sweet fresh blossomed dewy bouquet delicate subtle Green tea itself can sometimes be bitter depending on how it’s made, so jasmine tea might have a bit of bitterness, too. However, jasmine flowers themselves are said to have a naturally relaxing and soft scent, which some researchers suggests can help to support a positive mood and provide stress relief. Types/Varieties The most commonly produced type of jasmine tea is the kind made with green tea. In some cases it may also be made by steeping jasmine flowers in white, oolong or black tea. Depending on the specific type of tea, it might be mixed with other flavors or scented ingredients, such as: lavender or chamomile flowers fruit spices oils extracts natural or artificial flavors Jasmine tea varieties differ from one another based on the exact type of leaves and flowers used in the tea, plus how they are steeped and for how long. Various amounts and types of green tea leaves many be used, which have different “grades” depending on the species and how they are harvested and processed. When it comes time to steep the flowers to make this tea, two different methods are primarily utilized: the layering method and the mixing method. The traditional layering method uses fresh jasmine flowers that are slowly dried on top of green tea leaves to improve the aroma and flavor by infusing the green tea before the tea is dried and packaged. The other method uses wilted flowers mixed in with green tea leaves. Additionally, some manufacturers don’t use jasmine flowers but instead use jasmine essential oil, which is made by extracting the oils from jasmine plants. This essential oil is extremely expensive and rich in phytonutrients. To cut costs, today some tea makers also use “jasmine natural flavor” or artificial jasmine flavor mixed with other teas, but this doesn’t have the same benefits as using actual flowers or essential oil. Benefits/Uses 1. High in Antioxidants One of the most well-researched jasmine tea benefits if its supply of antioxidants, especially polyphenols and catechins, such as EGCG (which stands for epigallocatechin-3-gallate). These protective compounds are most abundantly present when the tea is made with good-quality green tea (from the Camellia sinensis plant). Antioxidants such as catechins and EGCG are know to promote a healthy inflammation response, support normal cholesterol levels, and help protect the skin, heart and brain from free radical damage. They may also have the ability to fight caner by reducing tumor cell growth, decreasing tumor size and suppressing the spread of cancer cells. Some specific flavanols and antioxidants found in jasmine green tea include: EGCG epicatechin epigallocatechin gallocatechin other gallate derivatives several sesquiterpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory effects and help promote healthy circulation EGCG is associated with additional anti-aging health perks, such as enhanced metabolic activities that may prevent weight gain, and a boost in thermogenesis (the body producing heat by using energy). It may also help manage your appetite and support healthy blood sugar levels. 2. Can Lift Energy and Focus In addition to polyphenols, jasmine tea and green tea contain the amino acid l-theanine, which has positive effects on cognitive health, including the ability to increase alertness without causing “jitters” like some stimulants can. This tea also contains small amounts of caffeine, which can improve concentration and motivation. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, jasmine tea is said to increase yang qualities, meaning it has warm, dry and bright qualities that make it uplifting. It’s recommended for people with “low yang,” such as those who live in cold climates, have lethargy or low energy, or who work too much or feel overly depleted. 3. Has a Relaxing Scent and Taste Jasmine tea is unique in that it has both stimulating and calming effects. The flower petals are thought to have a floral, calming aroma in part due to the presence of the compound called linalool. Studies suggest that smelling linalool can help promote activity of your parasympathetic nervous system, which is the part of your nervous system that helps you relax. Since it assists your body and mind in unwinding, this tea can potentially aid in lowering your heart rate and reducing muscle tension. It may even increase release of the “feel good” chemical called GABA, which has mood-boosting effects. L-theanine found within this tea also helps support a healthier response to stress, leading to improved relaxation and potentially benefits like better sleep. How to Make It Can I drink jasmine tea every day? Yes — considering jasmine tea benefits many different parts of your body, including your heart and brain, it’s an ideal type of tea to enjoy daily. This is assuming you don’t respond poorly to low amounts of caffeine intake. Which type should I buy? When purchasing jasmine tea you’ll have the option of either buying loose-leaf teas or bagged tea bags. According to the Teatulia website, “There are at least seven provinces in China that produce jasmine tea, but the most famous and most traditionally scented jasmine tea comes out of the Fujian region.” Look for teas made in the region if you’re looking for top quality. How should the tea be stored? Green teas are typically best consumed within six months to a year of purchase. To keep teas fresh, store them in a cool, dark place that is dry, away from light, oxygen and moisture. How do I make it? To preserve the delicate antioxidants in green tea and jasmine petals, use very hot water but not boiling water. Ideally aim to use water that is around 160 to 190 degrees Fahrenheit. (It should be simmering, not boiling.) You can get the right temperature by allowing boiling water to rest a minute before pouring it over the tea leaves. Add about one teaspoon of loose-leaf jasmine tea for every one cup of water. If using “jasmine pearls,” use about 2–3 pearls per cup of water. Jasmine green tea should steep anywhere from 30 seconds to 5 minutes depending on how the tea was processed. Most experts recommend steeping for about 3 minutes on average. The finished product should usually have a pale golden-yellow color with floral notes and a fresh finish. When making this tea, you might find that finished product has a bit of an astringent taste. If this occurs, you can improve the taste by lowering how long you steep the tea, lowering the steeping temperature and purchasing high-quality jasmine tea leaves or flowers. Caffeine Content Is jasmine tea high in caffeine? Considering it’s a type of green tea, it has the same caffeine content as other green teas. The addition of jasmine flowers does not add more caffeine. How much caffeine is in green tea/jasmine tea? It has 28 milligrams of caffeine per cup, which is less than coffee (95 mg per cup) and black tea (47 mg per cup). The amount of caffeine per cup varies depending on the exact type of tea as well as how is was processed and prepared. The caffeine in jasmine tea makes it different than most “herbal teas,” such as peppermint, ginger or chamomile teas, which are typically caffeine-free. To reap the most benefits of jasmine tea without experiencing side effects, stick to about two to three cups per day. Risks and Side Effects While it’s generally safe to consume, people sensitive to caffeine should be careful of their tea intake. Pregnant and breast-feeding women should drink no more than one or two cups per day, as some research shows that more caffeine than this amount may interfere with normal heart rhythms. Consuming caffeinated teas on on an empty stomach may also cause an upset stomach in some people. If this occurs, try having it with a meal. Conclusion Jasmine tea is a type of flower-scented tea that is most often made by steeping jasmine flowers in green tea. Benefits of jasmine tea are similar to those of green tea, such as providing polyphenols and other antioxidants. These compounds, such as flavanols and sesquiterpenoids, have many anti-aging effects and can help protect the heart, skin and brain. Jasmine tea is both uplifting and calming. It can help increase alertness (it contains small amounts of caffeine and the compound EGCG) but can also help the body cope with stress. Enjoy two to three cups per day for the most benefits. You can make it at home with loose tea leaves or flowers, or use dried jasmine pearls or tea bags. To read the original article click here.

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NEW VIDEO: Beat Cancer By Balancing Your Autonomic Nervous System

AHA Publisher — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 08:00:13 +0000

Edit Lang via NaturalHealth365 – For the past eighteen months, an invisible virus – COVID-19 – has gotten all the spotlight. It is as if the top chronic diseases that claim the most lives in America – including heart disease and cancer – were put on the back burner. But tragically, one in six people dies from cancer each year, with one in three developing the disease in their lifetime. Upon diagnosis, most people are told the only way to “fight” cancer is by using some combination of Western medicine’s invasive or toxic cancer treatment modalities – chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. However, no one tells these newly diagnosed patients that conventional cancer treatments may be more deadly than the disease itself. Few are aware that one of the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation is the formation of new cancers! Thankfully, there are alternatives to the all-allopathic route. In a captivating new video, Jonathan Landsman of NaturalHealth365 interviews Mary Beth Gonzalez, wife of Dr. Nicholas Gonzalez, offering hope to everyone battling cancer and anyone wanting to prevent it. Dr. Nicholas Gonzalez: Balancing the Autonomic Nervous System Can Help Fight Off Cancer Dr. Nicholas Gonzalez was a classically trained immunologist. Many years ago, when he worked at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in the research lab as a medical student, he learned about the pioneering work of Dr. William Donald Kelly. He was so inspired by what he saw that he dedicated years of his life researching how Dr. Kelly’s tailored and unique nutritional program can balance one’s autonomic nervous system to fight off disease. (Listen carefully to the video below to learn more.) Restore Your Autonomic Balance With the Foods You Eat Science has long established that the autonomic nervous system runs our bodies with its two branches, the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. Dr. Gonzalez believed that we could affect the autonomic balance for better or worse with the foods we eat. As a result, our food choices profoundly impact whether we develop the diseases people fear the most, such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. And for anyone wanting to heal from severe chronic diseases, it is crucial to follow the right diet. The tricky part is knowing which diet is the best one for you. Dr. Gonzalez did not believe in a one-size-fits-all approach to diet and nutrition and a single best way of eating to help people heal from cancer. Instead, his protocol includes a tailored diet plan that is specific to each patient’s needs. Discover the Gonzalez Roadmap to Wellness and Help Your Body Heal Dr. Gonzalez developed two different paths to wellness to help his patients heal. The first one, the Gonzalez Metabolic Type Test – which patients can take online – focuses on nourishing the body with the right foods to heal itself. The protocol empowers patients to take charge of their health instead of relying on doctors to “fix” their problems. The purpose of this online test is to provide a roadmap by identifying patients’ metabolic types to help them get started on their healing journey. The second path to wellness, Gonzalez Guardians, is for those who experience symptoms that require a doctor’s care. Regardless of where you are on your healing journey, it is critical to do your research and have an open mind. Conventional treatment modalities are by far not the only way to restore your health. Giving your body the fuel it needs may just speed up your healing. Sources for this article include: TheGonzalezProtocol.com Rumble.com To read the original article click here.

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White Blood Cells May Be Harnessed to Boost Cancer Immunotherapy

AHA Publisher — Tue, 12 Oct 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Jon Schiller via Israel21c – White blood cells called Eosinophils can be “summoned” in order to fight cancer by both destroying the cancer cells directly as well as recruiting the immune system’s cancer-fighting T-cells, according to a new study published in the journal of the American Association for Cancer Research. Eosinophils produce powerful destructive proteins intended for fighting parasites. However, in the modern Western world, where high levels of hygiene have significantly reduced the risk of many parasites, eosinophils can be harmful, inducing allergies and asthma. Considering the destructive power of eosinophils, the researchers decided to test the potential benefits of these white blood cells if turned against cancer cells. Examining tissue samples of lung metastases taken from breast cancer patients, the researchers found that eosinophils reach the lungs and penetrate cancerous tissues, where they often release their destructive proteins and summon T-cells for reinforcement. Ultimately, T-cells gather in the affected lungs, slowing the growth of tumors. In the absence of eosinophils, lung metastases were much larger than those exposed to the white blood cells. These findings led to the conclusion that eosinophils could serve as a basis for improved immunotherapeutic medications to fight cancer effectively. “We chose to focus on lung metastases for two main reasons. First, metastases, and not the primary tumors, are often the main problem in treating cancer, and the lungs are a major target for the metastasis of many types of cancer,” said lead researcher Prof. Ariel Munitz of Tel Aviv University’s department of microbiology and clinical immunology. “Second, in a preliminary study we demonstrated that eosinophils gather in tumors developing in mucous tissues like the lungs, and therefore assumed that they would be found in lung metastases as well,” he added. Compared to traditional techniques like chemotherapy, immunotherapy generally leads to longer protection from cancer and fewer side effects. This new discovery may contribute to the development of new methods of immunotherapy. “Enhancing the number and power of T-cells is one of the main targets of immunotherapy treatments administered to cancer patients today,” said Munitz. To read the original article click here.

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White Blood Cells Can Help Destroy Cancer Cells – Israeli Study

AHA Publisher — Thu, 16 Sep 2021 07:00:56 +0000

Jerusalem Post Staff via Jerusalem Post– A type of white blood cells known as eosinophils can help the body fight cancer, and are used to fight cancer metastasis (cancer cells breaking away from the original infection) in the lungs, a new study study from Tel Aviv University has revealed. Prof. Ariel Munitz and doctoral student Sharon Grisauri of the Department of Microbiology and Clinical IImmunology at the Sackler Faculty of Medicine led the research, which was published in the academic journal Cancer Research. Eosinophils are white blood cells in the immune system that produce destructive proteins, originally intended to fight parasites. The team examined biopsies of the lung metastases from breast cancer patients. They discovered that eosinophils reach the lungs and enter the cancer tissues, often releasing the destructive proteins they carry. High levels of hygiene, especially in the Western world, have significantly reduced parasites but eosinophils often react negatively to humans, as they introduce problems such as allergies and asthma. “We chose to focus on lung metastases of many types of cancer,” Munitz explained in a statement. “First, metastases, and not the primary tumors, are often the main problem in treating cancer, and the lungs are a major target for the metastasis of many types of cancer. Second, in a preliminary study, we demonstrated that eosinophils gather in tumors developing in mucous tissues like the lungs, and therefore assumed that they would be found in lung metastases as well.” For the testing, the researchers used animal models. The results showed that lung metastases developed in the absence of eosinophils that were much larger than those exposed to eosinophils. The conclusion was that eosinophils fight cancer effectively. But, how can eosinophils fight cancer effectively? “We observed that when eosinophils are missing, the tissue also lacks T-cells – white blood cells known for fighting cancer,” Munitz explained. “Consequently, we assumed that eosinophils combat cancer through T-cells. Our next task was to understand the mechanism underlying this process.” In essence, the eosinophils release chemokines, which summons T-cells, whenever they come into contact with cancer. This, essentially allows for the eosinophils to call for reinforcements, backing them up to better fight the cancer. These findings could help pave the way for improved cancer treatments in the future. To read the original article click here.

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New Drug Candidate Could Boost Potential of Immunotherapy

AHA Publisher — Tue, 31 Aug 2021 07:00:24 +0000

Abigail Klein Leichman via Israel21c – One of the biggest breakthroughs in cancer treatment today is immunotherapy. Rather than flooding the body with toxic chemicals and radiation, this method recruits the patient’s own system to fight the cancer. While the immune system’s job is to detect and destroy intruders, cancer cells have various ways to disable it. Immunotherapy, therefore, aims to help immune cells recover their natural function. Although a powerful class of immunotherapy drugs, PD-1 inhibitors, was approved by the FDA in 2014, only 20-30 percent of cancer patients respond well to them. Even among those who initially respond, often the therapy stops working once cancer cells learn how to evade PD-1 inhibitors. “The reason seems to be that like cars in a traffic jam, the cancer cells find an alternative route to bypass the treatment, engage the immune cell [and shut it down],” explains Dr. Gavin Samuels, executive director of Jerusalem-based Nectin Therapeutics. The company is named after the nectin family of proteins, whose pathways are a common alternate route for cancer cells to evade immunotherapy. Established in 2017 based on a collaboration between scientists at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and the University of Rijeka, Croatia, Nectin Therapeutics’ drugs set up a roadblock in the nectin pathways. Used alone or in conjunction with PD-1 inhibitors, this treatment could be a strong contender in the quest to boost the success of immunotherapy for cancer patients. Like a Key in a Lock “There are probably many cells in our bodies that are constantly moving on a spectrum from normal cells to cancer cells, and an active immune system constantly surveys the situation,” explains Samuels, a physician. “As soon as the immune system detects these abnormal cells, it attacks them.” To protect themselves and take root as tumors, cancer cells develop anchors to reach specific receptors on the immune cell, fit into it like a key in a lock, switch it off and inactivate it. By breaking that locking mechanism, immuno-oncology drugs reactivate the immune response and provide a safer treatment with fewer side effects than traditional chemo or radiation therapy. “You have horrific side effects with chemotherapy because it’s essentially a poison that is more toxic to cancer cells — because they are rapidly dividing — than to normal cells,” Samuels explains. “We’ve developed a series of monoclonal antibodies and antibody-drug conjugates – an antibody with a toxin attached, sent directly to the cancer cell.” Nectin Therapeutics’ drugs have been shown in preclinical studies to effectively restore the function of immune cells when used alone, and even more when combined with a PD-1 drug, he says. The company’s lead candidate is expected to go into human clinical trials early next year. Other Nectin Therapeutics drugs could get to clinical trials about a year later, depending on FDA consideration, based on preclinical studies taking place in the US, Israel and Europe. Unique to Nectin Therapeutics Keren Paz, Nectin’s chief development officer, based in New York, explains that many research groups have sought alternative pathways to PD-1. Most have been unsuccessful. “We’re trying to find a common denominator among a lot of patients who did not respond well enough or long enough to that first family of immunotherapy drugs,” she says. “We see tumors that express the nectin proteins from the beginning and others that become dependent on these proteins only when the patient’s immune cells are already exhausted following treatment.” Nectin’s drugs use several different mechanisms of action to help restore the power of the immune system and shrink existing tumors. Immunology researcher Pini Tsukerman, Nectin Therapeutics’ cofounder and chief scientific officer, says the company has gained an in-depth understanding of the evasion mechanisms of cancerous cells from the immune system. “This comprehensive understanding, together with our track record in drug discovery and development, allowed us to select unique molecules as a target for the antibodies we develop,” says Tsukerman. Paz emphasizes that the antibodies demonstrated a favorable safety profile in preclinical studies and are expected to be effective in patients with many different types of cancer and at different stages of the disease. “Even targeted therapy has some side effects, but we’re not expecting any. We’re simply turning on an existing mechanism of the human body that was turned off,” Paz tells ISRAEL21c. Raising Funds Nectin Therapeutics’ investors include Integra Holdings, an investment company focused on life-science innovations emerging from the Hebrew University; aMoon Velocity, the early-stage fund of Israel’s largest health-tech and life-sciences venture fund aMoon; and Peregrine Ventures. The company closed a Series B round that raised about $15 million in May. “We believe that new immune checkpoint inhibitors will significantly enrich the toolbox of immunotherapy treatments and enable a more effective fight against cancer, whether as an independent treatment or in combination with existing approved drugs,” said Yaron Daniely, partner and head of aMoon Alpha. For more information, click here To read the original article click here.

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Is Green Tea a Cancer Killer?

AHA Publisher — Wed, 11 Aug 2021 07:00:58 +0000

Al Sears, MD, CNS – I tell my patients there’s a good reason why countries like Japan, China and Korea have some of the lowest cancer rates in the world. Two words: green tea. I’ve written to you before about how green tea can protect against a number of chronic diseases, including Alzheimer’s, diabetes and depression – and cancer is no exception. In one breakthrough study, researchers from the Arizona Cancer Center found that chemicals in green tea dramatically increase the production of key detoxification enzymes that boost your body’s metabolic defense against toxins that can cause cancer.1 The study, published by the American Association for Cancer Research, proved that catechins – a type of natural antioxidant – found in green tea, increase the gene expression of glutathione S-transferase(GST) enzymes by as much as 80%. These powerful GST enzymes then convert toxic carcinogens into non-toxic chemicals, rendering them harmless. A number of studies also show that epigallocatechin gallate, or EGCG, an especially potent catechin in green tea, is a powerful weapon against multiple types of cancer – both as a primary prevention and as further prevention after cancer treatment. Here are just a few of the cancer types, against which green tea has been shown to be highly effective. Skin cancer2,3 Duodenal cancer in the small intestine4 Prostate cancer5 Lung cancer6 Colorectal cancer7 Stomach cancer8 In many parts of Asia, green tea is a beverage consumed as commonly as water, many times per day. The Arizona Cancer Center found that the anti-cancer effects of green tea catechins kick in at between 8 and 16 cups per day. You can also take EGCG supplements. I recommend you get around 1,500 mg a day — to be split up between meals and taken about 30 minutes after eating. For added cancer protection, I recommend daily vitamin D for my patients. The best source of vitamin D is sunshine. You don’t need more than 20-30 minutes in the sun to get all your vitamin D for the day. But because we spend most of our time inside, you might have to get your vitamin D from other sources. Food sources include salmon, mackerel, tuna fish, sardines, eggs, beef and cheese. I also recommend taking a supplement of vitamin D3 called cholecalciferol. It’s the same vitamin D that your body produces. Just be sure to avoid the synthetic form, vitamin D2, or ergocalciferol, in most multivitamins. It’s less potent and less absorbable. To Your Good Health Al Sears, MD, CNS 1 Chow SHH, et al. “Effects of Repeated Green Tea Catechin Administration on Human Cytochrome P450 Activity.” Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers & Prevention.15(12):2473-6. January 2007 2 Conney AH, et al. “Inhibitory effect of oral administration of green tea on tumorigenesis by ultraviolet light, 12-O-tetradecanoylphorobol-13-acetate and N-nitrosodiethylamine in mice.” Cancer Chemoprevention. Florida: CRC Press; 1992. pp. 361–373. 3 Yoshizawa S, et al. “Penta-O-galloyl-β-D-glucose and (−)-epigallocatechin gallate cancer preventive agents.” ACS Symposium Series. 4 Y Fujita, et al. “Inhibitory effect of (-)-epigallocatechin gallate on carcinogenesis with N-ethyl-N’-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine in mouse duodenum.” Jpn J Cancer Res. 1989 Jun;80(6):503-5. 5 Gupta S, et al. “Inhibition of prostate carcinogenesis in TRAMP mice by oral infusion of green tea polyphenols.” Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 2001;98:10350–10355. 6 Nakachi K, et al. “Preventive effects of drinking green tea on cancer and cardiovascular disease: epidemiological evidence for multiple targeting prevention.” BioFactor. 2000;13:49–54 7 Ibid. 8 Yamane T, et al. “Inhibition of N-methyl-N’-nitro-N-nitrosoguanidine-induced carcinogenesis by (-)-epigallocatechin gallate in the rat glandular stomach.” Cancer Res.1995 May 15; 55(10):2081-4. To read the original article click here.

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Top 12 Health Benefits of Watermelon

AHA Publisher — Sat, 15 Aug 2020 07:00:52 +0000

Jillian Levy, CHHC via Dr. Axe – Watermelon is considered a summertime staple, popping up at pool parties and summer barbecues all season long. While it’s well-known for its ability to keep you cool and hydrated, there are tons of other health perks associated with this popular fruit that are not as well-known. What are the benefits of eating watermelon? As you’ll learn more about below, this fruit is low in calories, a good source of vitamins C and A, and has been linked to everything from reduced muscle pain and enhanced exercise recovery to improved vision and skin health. Nutrition Facts The watermelon plant, also known by its scientific name Citrullus lanatus, is a member of the flowering plant family known as Cucurbitaceae. Is watermelon a fruit? Yes, the spiky, low-to-the-ground watermelon plant, which originates from southern Africa, produces the popular edible fruit we now commonly consume. It’s believed that wild varieties that were grown many years ago were more bitter than the types we eat today, thanks to the presence of a compound called cucurbitacin. Historically, many varieties, with different colors and tastes, were grown in various parts of the world, including across Africa. Believe it or not, it’s estimated that there are actually more than 1,200 different cultivars of watermelon still in existence. This includes the lanatus, crimson sweet and jubilee watermelons. Unbeknownst to most people, the entire watermelon is edible, including the rind and seeds. In fact, watermelon rind (which can be pickled or even stir-fried) is very high in citrulline, a compound that’s transformed into the amino acid arginine, which is associated with cardiovascular benefits and more. The seeds are also chock-full of amino acids, the “building blocks of protein,” as well as some trace minerals, which is why they are included in some plant protein powders. Is watermelon a “superfood”? While it may not be as nutrient-dense as fruits such as berries or oranges, there are still some impressive benefits associated with watermelon nutrition. All varieties are loaded with antioxidants and have been associated with a wide range of health benefits — such as better heart health, enhanced immunity and increased weight loss. Two especially protective compounds found in this fruit are citrulline and lycopene. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s data on watermelon nutrition, one cup (about 152 grams) contains approximately: 46 calories 11.5 grams carbs 1 gram protein 0.2 grams fat 0.6 grams dietary fiber 12.3 milligrams vitamin C (21 percent DV) 865 international units vitamin A (17 percent DV) 170 milligrams potassium (5 percent DV) 15.2 milligrams magnesium (4 percent DV) 0.1 milligrams thiamine (3 percent DV) 0.1 milligrams vitamin B6 (3 percent DV) 0.3 milligrams pantothenic acid (3 percent DV) 0.1 milligrams copper (3 percent DV) 0.1 milligrams manganese (3 percent DV) Top 12 Benefits of Watermelon Here are some of the top benefits of watermelon: 1. Can Help Support Immunity In animal studies, watermelon consumption has been linked to reduced inflammation and improved antioxidant capacity. Lycopene, one of the carotenoids found in abundance in this fruit, has potent antioxidant properties and can help reduce oxidative stress. It may also help keep your heart healthy, as well as defend against certain types of cancers, cardiovascular disorders, diabetes and macular diseases, according to recent research. Studies show eating it can also increase levels of arginine, an important amino acid that’s used for the synthesis of nitric oxide. Not only does nitric oxide help dilate your vessels to keep blood flowing efficiently and reduce the risk of high blood pressure, but it’s also involved in regulating the immune system. This fruit is also a great source of vitamin C, a key micronutrient that does double duty, acting as both an antioxidant and immune enhancer to keep your body healthy and ward off chronic disease. Antioxidants can help fight free radicals and protect the cells against oxidative damage and stress. 2. May Improve Heart Health Watermelon contains a good amount of both potassium and magnesium, two important nutrients used to help remedy conditions like high blood pressure. Consuming proper amounts of potassium and magnesium from a nutritious diet seems to be associated with improved heart health, according to research, along with a decreased risk of death from heart disease. A review published in the journal Advances in Nutrition showed that eating plenty of potassium-rich foods like fruits and vegetables can positively impact blood pressure levels, which may be useful in reducing the risk of conditions such as stroke and heart attacks. Lycopene also benefits heart health by reducing inflammation, fighting oxidative stress and potentially improving blood lipid levels. New research, including results from a 2019 study, suggests that drinking 100 percent watermelon juice is “a palatable, effective means of increasing serum lycopene in older adult women, a group at risk for low carotenoid intake.” Studies have also shown that watermelon benefits may include helping relieve arterial stiffness, balance cholesterol and improve systolic blood pressure in adults with hypertension. 3. Can Relieve Pain and Soreness In addition to the potential benefits of watermelon juice, this fruit also packs a good amount of vitamin C into each serving. Vitamin C has been shown to protect cartilage and bones, aid in the repair of tendons and ligaments, and help speed up wound healing. Potassium and magnesium, two nutrients that are also found in this type of melon, are important for muscle recovery and pain relief. Potassium, in particular, aids in the prevention of muscle cramps following exercise and helps you heal from injury more quickly. 4. Helps Prevent Kidney Stones Studies have shown that the potassium found in fruits and vegetables is very helpful in cleaning toxins and washing out waste from the blood, helping prevent kidney stones. Watermelon benefits also include being a natural diuretic. It helps increase urine production to transport waste and toxins out of the body to protect against kidney stones. 5. Aids in Hydration, Digestion and Detoxification One of the top benefits of watermelon is its high water content. In fact, it is estimated to be composed of about 91 percent water, which can aid in detoxification and help rid the body of excess water and fluids, relieving uncomfortable bloating and swelling. Potassium and magnesium are also important for detoxification. Potassium acts as an electrolyte and promotes circulatory health while also helping manage blood flow and hydration levels within the body, allowing oxygen to reach your cells. At the same time, magnesium reduces water retention in the gut to beat bloating and help you lose water weight. Another interesting finding from recent animal studies is that consumption of watermelon juice significantly lowers fasting blood glucose levels in diabetic mouse models. The juice seems to induce gut microbiome compositional changes that can have positive metabolic effects. 6. May Help Fight Cancer Cells This fruit may act as a potent cancer-fighting food, squeezing a hearty dose of antioxidants and watermelon health benefits into each serving. An important benefit of watermelon for men is that lycopene, one of the main carotenoids found in the fruit, has been linked to a lower risk of prostate cancer in some studies. Research also shows that lycopene plays a part in keeping cell membranes strong so they can protect themselves from toxins that can potentially cause cell death or mutation. It’s also a great supplier of antioxidants vitamin C and vitamin A, both of which help fight free radical damage and prevent DNA mutation to block the formation of cancerous cells. Studies have also shown that high doses of vitamin C can enhance the cancer-fighting effects of certain drugs used in chemotherapy while also reducing adverse side effects of traditional cancer treatments. 7. Helps Protect Skin Health Watermelon benefits skin health because it’s one of the top antioxidant foods available. Due to its high content of antioxidant vitamins A and C, watermelon benefits for skin include its ability to protect the cells against damage and fight free radical formation to slow aging and keep your skin looking healthy. Vitamin C is especially important for skin health. It helps boost collagen production while also helping prevent sun damage. Meanwhile, vitamin A is key to maintaining the health of your cells and protecting against UV damage. 8. Supports Healthy Vision Important nutrients that play a role in protecting eye health — including beta-carotene, vitamin A, vitamin C, lutein and zeaxanthin — are also housed in this giant fruit and sit among the many benefits of watermelon. Studies have shown that a serious vitamin A deficiency, for example, can lead to macular degeneration, a condition characterized by the thickening of the cornea that could eventually lead to blindness. This summertime fruit is a great supplier of beta-carotene, which is the form of vitamin A found in plants. Getting enough beta-carotene in your diet can aid in the prevention of macular degeneration, the leading cause of age-related blindness. 9. May Help With Weight Loss Is watermelon good for you to lose weight? While it does contain natural sugar and carbs, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing depending on the diet you follow and how much you consume. Despite being rich in a multitude of important vitamins and minerals, there are a low amount of calories in watermelon, making it a great addition to a nutritious weight loss diet. For this reason, watermelon benefits weight loss by promoting satiety and curbing cravings to keep you on track toward your health goals. A 2019 study published in Nutrients found that the potential mechanisms by which watermelon consumption improves body weight management is by increasing satiety (fullness) and postprandial glucose and insulin response. After four weeks of intervention in overweight and obese adults, consuming two cups of watermelon rather than cookies led to a significantly higher satiety response (lower hunger, prospective food consumption and desire to eat and greater fullness) plus significantly decreased body weight, body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure and waist-to-hip ratio. 10. Can Improve Exercise Recovery Watermelon, including the juice from this fruit, has been linked to enhanced muscle recovery in athletes and reduced soreness. It can help you hit the gym more effectively to reach your weight loss goals. A 2020 study found that by providing electrolytes and reducing dehydration, one of the top benefits of watermelon is its ability to promote post-exercise recovery and alleviate aches and pains. Interestingly enough, one study in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry looked at the effects of watermelon juice as a functional drink for athletes. After 24 hours of supplementation, athletes experienced improved heart rates that were more beneficial for muscle recovery in addition to less overall soreness and muscle aches. A 2016 study found that watermelon puree consumption fully supported the energy demands of exercise and increased post-exercise blood levels of nutritional components (l-citrulline and l-arginine), antioxidant capacity and total nitrate status. It did not, however, influence post-exercise inflammation and changes in innate immune function. Another 2016 study also found that it offered benefits to those doing high intensity or endurance exercise, but overall it didn’t prolong time to exhaustion. 11. Can Help Relieve Acid Reflux One of the benefits of watermelon and muskmelon (along with other types of melons) is that they are often used to reduce acid reflux symptoms. Melons are a part of the GAPS diet, which is designed to help treat digestive diseases and reduce inflammation. Melon is believed to soothe the gastrointestinal tract and regulate pH levels while also lessening inflammation and acid production throughout the body. That said, due to its fructose (sugar), watermelon may trigger discomfort in people sensitive to high FODMAP foods. 12. May Benefit Reproductive/Sexual Health What does watermelon do sexually? As mentioned above, consuming the juice and flesh of this fruit can help relieve arterial stiffness, support circulation and improve blood pressure. This suggests that watermelon may also be good for you sexually, as it can help with blood flow and therefore arousal. Additionally, in some studies citrulline (found in the rind) has demonstrated to be a safe and well-accepted alternative treatment...

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Medicinal Mushrooms Can Eliminate the Threat of Viruses and Cancer Cell Growth

AHA Publisher — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 07:00:41 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Sometimes what you can’t see, can hurt you. Beyond the vision of the naked eye, there’s a battle going on all around you, every day. Viruses, environmental toxins, antibiotic-resistant bacteria, harmful fungi, allergens and other fierce combatants are waging war with your body. Hence, the need for medicinal mushrooms to protect your health, as you’ll soon see. As you know, a healthy immune system is one of your best lines of defense against the health challenges all around you. But, most people hear little about how medicinal mushrooms can greatly improve immune function. Today, you’ll discover how this powerful “super food” offers antiviral and anticancer benefits. Proven Results With Centuries of Evidence Today’s unhealthy environment, with pollutants found outside, in our workplace and even in our homes – has caused many to look for natural solutions to the hazards of modern living. While medicinal mushrooms may seem like a new approach, they have actually been used for thousands of years throughout the world. In fact, according to many natural health experts, the ability of certain mushrooms to promote wellness and restore health has been consistently proven and is remarkably safe. Those same health benefits of medicinal mushrooms are now being experienced in today’s world, resulting in a resurgence of their use. How Do Medicinal Mushrooms Boost Immunity? There are a number of reasons the ‘little old’ mushroom is actually a health-boosting superstar. For one, they contain a family of carbohydrates known as beta-glucans that stimulate the body’s many types of immune cells, particularly so-called “first responders.” At the same time, medicinal mushrooms can act to calm your body’s over-reactive autoimmune response, essentially performing double duty to ward off illness by giving your immunity a ‘jump start’ while also alleviating symptoms of such conditions as psoriasis, lupus and arthritis. And it doesn’t stop there. Along with their helping hand to the immune system, mushrooms are believed to support heart health, reduce blood pressure, improve circulation, boost cognitive health, increase metabolic efficiency, improve digestive health, and aid other systems and functions of the body. Can Medicinal Mushrooms Help to Prevent Cancer Cell Growth? Because these healthy fungi are so adept at supporting the immune system, they can play a role in helping your body to fight off potential and developing tumors. As a secondary defense in combating cancer, medicinal mushrooms are powerful antioxidants, helping to neutralize free radicals in the body that can otherwise invade cells and damage DNA. The third punch they deliver to cancer is by acting as natural detoxifiers, ridding the body of accumulated dead cells and tissues, wastes and other substances that can act as potential carcinogens. Think of these helpful fungi as sponges, soaking up toxins, much as other types of fungi thrive on decaying material. A Basic Guide to Picking the Right Medicinal Mushrooms With nearly 300 types of medicinal mushrooms, it can seem a daunting tasks to determine which could be useful for any given health need. Among the more commonly used and their areas of function are: Agaricus blazei: supports the immune system, believed to fight tumors, and helps to control cholesterol and blood sugar. Cordyceps sinensis: improves immunity, and promotes a healthy cholesterol profile. Coriolus versicolor: used for its antitumor properties and may be useful in enhancing certain cancer treatments. Ganoderma lucidum: reduces cholesterol and promotes healthy circulation; may be useful in fighting cancer and HIV. Grifola frondosa (maitake): used to combat cancer, moderate blood sugar and support liver health; may also be useful against HIV. Polyporus umbellatus: believed to enhance the immune system, while also supporting liver health; particularly helpful against bacteria-borne disease. When selecting a daily supplement, it’s best to choose one that includes a balance of species to cover a number of health areas, including immunity, cardiovascular and circulatory, and cancer-fighting properties. If you have specific health concerns, such as digestive issues or arthritis, be sure the formula includes medicinal fungi known to benefit these conditions. And, obviously, talk to your own integrative healthcare provider about what’s best for you, especially if you’re dealing with a serious health issue. Sources for this article include: Lifeworkswellnesscenter.com To read the original article click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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