NaturalHealth365 Archives - Amazing Health Advances

How a Mammogram Actually Causes Breast Cancer

The AHA! Team — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 05:07:39 +0000

Abby Campbell via NaturalHealth365 – In reality, more and more studies are showing that a mammogram breast screening has some major flaws – which put women at serious health risk and actually increase the risk of cancer. An X-ray picture of the breast, called a mammogram, is heavily promoted as the ‘primary way to screen’ for breast cancer, according to Western medicine. Conventionally speaking, an annual detection screening is recommended as early as age 40 by both the American Cancer Society and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, while the United States Preventive Services Task Force recommends screenings every other year starting at age 50. While mammogram guidelines differ amongst organizations, they all agree there are concerns about the test. Yet, disputes exist amongst experts when it comes to mammography detecting invasive breast cancer. So, the question remains: do the benefits outweigh the risks? In reality, more and more studies are showing that a mammogram breast screening has some major flaws – which put women at serious health risk and actually increase the risk of cancer. Strange logic: Zero-stage cancer detected but treated aggressively Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) refers to the abnormal growth of cells forming a lesion between 1 and 1.5 centimeters in diameter. While this is not cancer, approximately 25 percent (60,000 cases) of all newly diagnosed breast cancer falls within this category each year. Because evidence indicates that less than half of DCIS cases progress to invasive cancer, some experts declare it should be reclassified as a non-cancerous condition. Additionally, they recommend a “watchful eye” for women who have this condition rather than invasive therapy. After all, why treat someone who doesn’t have cancer with chemotherapy or radiation – which places their immune systems at risk for a lifetime? However, mammography proponents claim they’re saving lives through early detection and treatment of DCIS. They view it as pre-cancerous or “stage zero cancer” and believe it could eventually cause harm if left untreated. Therefore, they recommend treating it in the same manner as invasive cancer with aggressive treatments. But is this right or fair? According to Time Magazine, “Cancer has a language problem … A 57-year old woman with low-grade DCIS that will almost certainly never become invasive hears the same word as the 34-year old woman who has metastatic malignancies that will kill her. That’s confusing to patients conditioned to treat every cancer diagnosis as an emergency in a world that still reacts to cancer as though it’s the beginning of the end.” The latest round of controversy was set off about DCIS treatment after a study was published by JAMA Oncology. After a 20-year analysis of 100,000 women who were diagnosed with DCIS, the mortality rate from breast cancer of these patients was the same as the general population at 3.3 percent. Radiation from mammogram screening is a breast cancer risk While several organizations like the Susan G. Komen for the Cure heavily promote mammograms for early screening for breast cancer, it’s ironic that mammogram machines put each woman at risk for the very thing they want to prevent. The ionizing radiation used to detect breast tumors is a risk factor for breast cancer development. Additionally, the crushing compression of this test on the breast tissue may potentially spread cancer if the cancer cells are present. After several studies, Cornell University determined people who are exposed to ionizing radiation emitted from machines like the mammogram machine place themselves at risk for breast cancer. They also stated, “… female breast tissue is highly susceptible to radiation effects” as it “is one of the most sensitive tissues to the carcinogenic action of ionizing radiation.” They also revealed that it takes a minimum of five to 10 years for radiation-induced breast cancer to develop. Finally, they concluded that greater levels of radiation exposure lead to a greater risk of breast cancer. Every time a woman is exposed to this form of radiation, she is placing herself at higher risk – especially if the screening is done when there is estrogen stimulation and tissue proliferation that occurs during monthly menstrual cycles. Prevention of breast cancer is better than detection While early detection of breast cancer can be done by mammogram screening, it is not the same as “prevention.” Lifestyle choices will help you prevent cancer or any chronic illness. Be sure to eat real whole and organic foods, drink plenty of fresh (clean) water, exercise regularly, get plenty of rest, and manage stress levels. Editor’s note: Discover the best ways to naturally reduce the risk of cancer, own the Stop Cancer Docu-Class created by NaturalHealth365 Programs. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov CDC.gov Nccn.org Time.com To read the original article click here.

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Bizarre-Looking Fungus Improves Cognition & Immunity, New Research Suggests

The AHA! Team — Mon, 08 Sep 2025 05:25:40 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Gastroesophageal reflux disease, or acid reflux as it is often known, is one of the most common health complaints among adults. So much so that medications to treat the symptoms make up the third highest-selling class of drugs in the United States. Of all the medicinal mushrooms, tremella mushrooms are undoubtedly the strangest looking, with a translucent white color and a complicated-looking arrangement of frills and folds that causes them to resemble reef coral. Botanically labeled as tremella fuciformis, tremella mushrooms are commonly known by nicknames that range from the charming (snow mushrooms) to the creepy (witches’ butter). You may also hear them referred to as snow fungus, white fungus, and white jelly mushrooms. But these intriguing fungi are so much more than visual oddities. Valued as adaptogens and immune system boosters in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years, tremella mushrooms are now impressing contemporary researchers. A clinical study in the Journal of Medicinal Foods concluded that tremella extracts can help protect brain cells and improve cognition and memory in patients with cognitive impairment. You won’t want to miss out on the far-reaching “head-to-toe” benefits of these fascinating fungi. Tremella mushrooms help reverse memory loss and slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases In a double-blind, controlled trial involving 75 individuals with subjective cognitive impairment, the researchers set out to assess the efficacy and safety of tremella. They found that participants who received between 600 and 1,200 mg a day of tremella for eight weeks experienced greater memory and executive function improvements than those in the control group. The team concluded that tremella could be safely used to improve memory and enhance cognition. A 2022 study published in Nutrients explored tremella mushrooms’ ability to act against oxidative stress and brain inflammation that contribute to neurodegenerative diseases. The researchers found that tremella mushrooms contain polysaccharides with anti-amyloidogenic properties (this forbidding-sounding word means that they act against the buildup of harmful amyloid-beta plaque implicated in Alzheimer’s disease). They also have antioxidant and anti-apoptotic effects, meaning they can prevent the death of brain cells. One specific tremella polysaccharide, TL04, was found in animal studies to confer protective effects through the mitochondrial pathway. The team concluded that polysaccharides in tremella are “promising neuroprotective agents” with “enormous potential” to inhibit the progression of neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntingdon’s disease, and ALS. Tremella combats inflammatory intestinal diseases by enhancing immunity and gut microbe diversity In a 2021 study published in Frontiers in Immunology, researchers concluded that polysaccharides in tremella mushrooms have the potential to alleviate inflammation and tissue damage caused by ulcerative colitis. These beneficial carbohydrates also support the health of the gut microbiome by increasing microbial diversity and renewing populations of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus. As these bacteria’s metabolites help regulate the immune system, this also supports immune defenses. Studies have shown that polysaccharides can directly activate immune system components such as macrophages and T-cells. While more study is needed, the implications are promising. Promote and protect skin health, radiance, and hydration Tremella mushrooms contain potent antioxidants that reduce skin inflammation and help to protect against photoaging (another word for wrinkles and age spots induced by the harmful ultraviolet rays in sunlight). In addition, their polysaccharides have humectant properties, meaning they can draw moisture into the skin. In a 2021 study published in the International Journal of Immunopathology and Pharmacology, a 0.05 percent formulation of tremella polysaccharides performed as well in hydrating skin as a 0.02 percent formulation of hyaluronic acid – and it accomplished this at only 14 percent of the cost! Researchers endorsed tremella polysaccharides for rehydrating the skin and protecting and repairing the skin barrier. Tremella polysaccharides also help to increase the production of collagen, a protein that promotes skin firmness and elasticity (the sought-after qualities that give skin a youthful appearance). Access benefits through diet, supplements, or topical application Whole tremella mushrooms are available fresh or dried in markets and health food stores. Dried mushrooms should be soaked for an hour to rehydrate before using in recipes. While fresh tremella mushrooms are perfectly edible and nutritious – packed with dietary fiber, plant-based protein, essential vitamins, and minerals – they have a gelatinous texture that some people find off-putting. That said, their flavor is subtle and mild, and they blend in well with soups, stews, stir-fries, and casseroles. Powdered tremella is also available as a supplement. Use a reputable vendor, and choose an organic product certified by the NSF (National Sanitation Foundation) or USP (United States Pharmacopeia). You can also find tremella in topical serums, facial masks, and lotions. Before supplementing with tremella, you may want to get the “thumbs-up” from your holistic healthcare provider. Unsurprisingly, tremella mushrooms have also exhibited effects against cancer, diabetes, fatty liver disease, and obesity. While much of their potential is still unexplored, their obvious benefits are causing them to emerge as an exciting natural intervention against chronic and degenerative diseases. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Liebertpub.com RealSimple.com Mdpi.com FrontiersinImmunology.org SagePub.com To read the original article click here.

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Acid Reflux Medication Interferes with Vitamin and Mineral Absorption

The AHA! Team — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 05:15:21 +0000

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The Best Foods and Herbs to Eliminate Intestinal Parasites

The AHA! Team — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 05:19:40 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – Parasites consume nutrients from the food we eat – and can also feed on blood, resulting in a lack of vital iron and protein. In addition, they can cause malabsorption of nutrients, leading to deficiencies. Parasites lurking deep within the human body may be hidden from sight – but their effects can be far-reaching and serious. Ranging in size from tiny microorganisms to ten-foot-long segmented worms, intestinal parasites can cause inflammation in the brain, muscles, esophagus, and skin and are associated with leaky gut syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, gastritis, acid reflux, joint pain, seasonal and food allergies – and a host of other health problems. The good news is that these noxious pests are vulnerable to certain foods and natural herbal remedies. Read on to discover what these substances are and how you can use them to rid your body of a parasitic infection. Intestinal parasites can wreak havoc on our health Parasites consume nutrients from the food we eat – and can also feed on blood, resulting in a lack of vital iron and protein. In addition, they can cause malabsorption of nutrients, leading to deficiencies. Intestinal parasites can enter the bloodstream and travel throughout the body, where they can penetrate body tissues such as the liver, lungs, and stomach – with serious consequences. For example, parasites lodged in the liver can cause cirrhosis and abscesses. There are many routes through which parasites can enter the body, including contaminated food – particularly pork, shellfish, and scavenger fish – and water. Some can also be transmitted through the bite of a mosquito or flea, through intimate contact, or even through the nose and mouth after a contaminated surface has been touched. Although anyone can get parasites, having low immunity, poor diet, and poor hygiene can all raise the risk of infection. Protozoa and helminths: A pair of health threats There are two major classes of intestinal parasites. Protozoa are single-celled microscopic organisms. Examples of infectious parasitical protozoa include Giardia intestinalis and Cryptosporidium. Because these microorganisms can reproduce inside humans, infections can be fatal if left untreated. Symptoms of protozoan disease include diarrhea, abdominal pain, nausea, dehydration, fatigue and joint pain. Helminths Helminths are multicellular worms and include roundworms, flatworms, pinworms – the most common form of helminth in the United States – tapeworms, hookworms, and whipworms. Helminths differ from protozoa in that although they can live in your lower intestine, they can’t reproduce there. However, they can still cause serious health problems. Before treating for parasites, make sure you undergo comprehensive tests, including microbiology. After you know which parasites you are fighting, you can try one or more of the following foods and herbs to eliminate them. Pumpkin seeds are an anti-parasitical snack Pumpkin seeds are tasty, crunchy, and nutritious. They also can paralyze helminths, allowing them to be easily flushed from the body, and have been traditionally used as a remedy for parasites. Some natural health experts advise blending a cup of raw pumpkin seeds with half a cup of coconut milk and half a cup of water, then eating the resultant paste – following up with a glass of water. Although pumpkin seeds can be very effective, results may not be immediate – you may need to repeat the treatment several times. Garlic: A one-two punch against parasites Garlic is packed with sulfur-containing amino acids, which help to combat parasites. A compound in garlic known as allicin also helps to kill and expel worms – but the garlic must be sliced, diced, or chopped to fully release it. The more finely garlic is chopped, the more allicin it releases. After mincing or dicing garlic, let it sit for a few minutes to allow this chemical process to occur. Alternatively, you can chew it for at least a minute. Papaya: A tropical fruit that fights parasites Along with amino acids, digestive enzymes such as papain (found in papayas) and bromelain (found in pineapples) can create an unfriendly environment for protozoa and helminths alike. The value of this traditional natural remedy for intestinal parasites was confirmed in a placebo-controlled study published in the Journal of Medicinal Foods. Sixty children were treated with a mixture of air-dried Carica papaya seeds and honey, resulting in parasite clearance rates that ranged between 71.4 percent and 100 percent. Researchers praised papaya seeds as an effective, cheap, and safe way to treat human intestinal parasites. In addition to foods such as pumpkin seeds, garlic, and papaya seeds, some common herbs have parasite-destroying properties. Just one word of caution: Always consult a holistic physician or trusted herbal medicine expert before starting a detoxification program to avoid harming the body. Let’s not forget: Oil of oregano Highly antimicrobial, oil of oregano – made from Oreganum vulgare – can be very effective against intestinal parasites. In a study published in Phytotherapy Research, adults infected with three different types of parasites were given 600 mg of oregano oil a day. After six weeks, parasites were eradicated in 72 percent of the participants; 23 percent greatly decreased their parasite load. Because researchers think that oil of oregano gets its anti-parasitical powers from carvacrol, be sure to use oil standardized to at least 65 percent carvacrol. Neem: An ancient remedy for parasites Antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral neem has been used in India for thousands of years to reliably kill internal and external parasites. The neem tree, scientifically known as Azadirachta indica, is native to India, where it serves so many medicinal purposes that it is often referred to as “the village pharmacy.” One of neem’s assets is that it not only kills parasites but also removes the toxins they leave behind as they are dying. This detoxifying property of neem also makes it a boon to the liver, which is often compromised by parasitic infection. Wormwood, black walnut, and cloves: a potent combination Scientifically known as Artemisia annua and also called annual mugwort and sweet Annie, Wormwood has pronounced anti-protozoan effects and is particularly effective at killing parasitic larvae. In addition, it stimulates macrophages, which are key in the immune system’s defense against parasitic infestation. Wormwood is often combined with black walnut, or Juglans negra, and the essential oil of cloves. The juglone in black walnut helps to kill parasites, while the antimicrobial oil of cloves can destroy virtually all parasite eggs in the intestinal tract. Combining these three substances can interrupt the parasitic life cycle, terminating these pests for good. How diet can help you to avoid parasites,/h5> Remember: Organic acids and enzymes help to kill parasites. Eating foods rich in these substances can create a body environment that discourages parasitic infection. As a preventative, natural health experts recommend eating six tablespoons of raw, extra-virgin coconut oil, a whole clove of garlic, and one large red onion. High-quality multi-strain probiotics can help destroy parasites in both the upper and lower gastrointestinal systems. Drinking fermented beverages – such as kefir and apple cider vinegar – and eating fermented probiotic-rich foods such as miso soup, sauerkraut, and kimchi can encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut and help to ward off infection. Finally, it is essential to sharply reduce and eliminate sugar, grains – which break down to sugar in the body – and alcohol. Editor’s note: Discover the shocking truth behind your “unexplained” health problems + the best ways to detoxify your body, watch the Whole Body Detox Summit created by NaturalHealth365 Programs. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov CDC.gov NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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MRI Drugs Leave Toxic Heavy Metal Residue in the Brain

The AHA! Team — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 05:49:18 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – MRIs help doctors see inside your body, but new findings have raised red flags. Medical experts want more research on health risks – especially how these metal-based contrast agents might build up in your body long after the scan. Many MRI procedures involve getting a contrast injection to improve the clarity of the images. The problem is that some patients with multiple MRIs report thinking problems afterward. These symptoms increasingly point to gadolinium, a metal used in contrast agents that may be more dangerous than we thought. New research shows it can stay in your body for years, even with healthy kidneys. What’s particularly concerning is that gadolinium might damage your cells and even your DNA. Scientific studies raise serious brain health concerns A study showed a correlation between intravenous gadolinium-based contrast agents and deposits of gadolinium found in neural tissues. Results were published online in Radiology, with lead author Robert McDonald, MD, PhD, Mayo Clinic, noting that some of the administered doses of contrast agent deposited in neural tissues were surprising. Patients who have undergone routine MRIs, such as Marcie Jacobs, later reported a loss of cognitive abilities. After having memory and other brain function issues following several years of routine MRIs for breast cancer detection, Ms. Jacobs ended up on disability. Also in the journal Radiology, Dr. Emanuel Kanal, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, along with Michael Tweedle at Ohio State University, wrote that current studies “called into question” the “safety of at least some” of the agents. While the two did not call for an end to the use of these agents, they did call for increased caution in using these drugs. Are you being offered these MRI drugs? About a third of all MRIs in America still use gadolinium-based contrast agents, even as questions linger about their long-term safety. The FDA has tightened regulations rather than banning the most problematic agents outright – taking a different approach than European regulators who pulled Omniscan and Magnevist from their markets back in 2018. This safety debate isn’t new. Back in 2007, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first required warnings after research linked certain agents to nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, a serious condition causing tissue hardening, particularly in kidney patients who struggle to clear the metal from their bodies. Despite two FDA reviewers pushing for an outright ban on high-risk agents, the agency opted for stronger warnings instead. By 2010, they recommended against using Omniscan, Magnevist, and Optimark for patients with kidney problems. In 2018, warnings expanded to include gadolinium retention risks even for people with healthy kidneys. These days, doctors typically reach for newer macrocyclic agents, which hold their gadolinium more securely and seem less likely to release it into body tissues. However, the debate continues about whether these regulatory steps go far enough to protect patients. Gadolinium brain deposits spark ongoing safety debate Brain scans after certain contrast-enhanced MRIs show gadolinium sticking around – a discovery that’s raised eyebrows across medicine even without clear proof of harm. The findings haven’t definitively shown these metal deposits cause problems, but they’ve certainly got doctors thinking twice. GE Healthcare insists its research shows no evidence of harm from these brain deposits. Bayer has been working with outside researchers to get to the bottom of things. Both companies have settled their share of lawsuits, including some involving deaths. Back in 2010, Bayer reached a settlement with a California man who claimed Bayer’s product Magnevist gave him nephrogenic systemic fibrosis – a rare but serious condition. The health dangers continue to be a hot topic of debate. Research points in different directions – some studies raise red flags while others find no smoking gun. Doctors now find themselves weighing benefits against possible risks, especially when their patients already have kidney problems. The risk to MRI patients continues Doctors now check kidney function before giving patients contrast agents, but that might not solve the problem. We’re seeing gadolinium deposits showing up even in people with healthy kidneys, sometimes months or years after their MRIs. Researchers are worried about finding these metal traces in brain tissue at much higher levels than anyone thought possible. We don’t know yet how this might affect someone’s brain function or overall health over the long haul. The data simply isn’t there. This puts radiologists in a tough spot. These contrast agents help spot tumors, inflammation, and blood vessel problems that might otherwise go undetected. That’s incredibly valuable – but at what risk? Some hospitals have started switching to newer gadolinium compounds like the macrocyclic agents, which seem to hold onto their gadolinium better than older ones like Omniscan and Magnevist. Others are cutting doses to the bare minimum or skipping contrast altogether when possible. For patients needing multiple MRIs throughout their lives, the risk increases with each scan. Many are now asking for contrast-free procedures or looking for facilities that use the newer, possibly safer agents. Until we know more, the smart move seems to use the least risky contrast agents only when absolutely necessary. Meanwhile, researchers keep studying what happens to these metal deposits in the body over time. One thing’s for sure – we haven’t heard the last word on gadolinium safety. Editor’s note: Find out more about how to keep your kidney health strong, own the Fatty Liver Docu-Class package created by NaturalHealth365 Programs, that includes the Kidney Health Docu-Class. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov FDA.gov FDA.gov Current.com Auntminnie.com Propublica.org To read the original article click here.

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New Report Exposes the Frightening Dangers of Wireless Radiation

The AHA! Team — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 05:41:38 +0000

Stephanie Woods via NaturalHealth365 – Much of the research on the health effects of electromagnetic radiation is performed on dead tissue. Dead tissue will not respond to non-ionizing radiation the way live tissue does because electron transport can’t occur. This leads to inaccurate conclusions. Modern healthcare It seems that whenever you start investigating a money trail within the world of “modern healthcare” or big business, the results usually reveal lies and corruption. For example, big pharma, our so-called government health agencies, big food producers, and now the telecom industry are filled with deceptive practices. All of these examples represent multi-billion dollar industries. But, more significantly, all of these entities have been caught lying to the public and compromising our health in the process. A recent peer-reviewed scientific report is upsetting the telecom industry with evidence that non-ionizing radiation can harm humans. Is electromagnetic radiation harmless? Industry paid for “science” says NO The report’s author, Paul Héroux, Ph.D., is an associate professor of medicine at McGill University in Montreal. He is also a medical scientist at the university’s Health Center Surgery Department and has an impressive professional pedigree. In the report, Héroux tackled the telecom industry’s arguments of denying any adverse impact on health caused by electromagnetic radiation. And he countered them with what he calls “solid physics.” The results are compelling. He determined that the adverse effects of electromagnetic radiation on human health are “inevitable” and possible at levels much lower than those the industry has deemed safe. Flawed research on wireless radiation puts public health at risk Much of the research on the health effects of electromagnetic radiation is performed on dead tissue. Dead tissue will not respond to non-ionizing radiation the way live tissue does because electron transport can’t occur. This leads to inaccurate conclusions. Researchers have created a large body of erroneous evidence by ignoring basic science and physics principles, risking people’s health. Worse, the current regulatory limits use this inaccurate information as a basis for determining what is safe and what is harmful. Outdated testing methods fail to reflect real-world exposure Another critical issue lies in how wireless radiation exposure is measured. Many studies assess only the thermal effects – how much radiation heats tissue – while ignoring non-thermal biological impacts. However, research shows that even low radiation levels, far below the heating threshold, can disrupt cellular function and damage DNA over time. By relying on outdated testing methods that overlook these biological effects, regulatory agencies continue to approve exposure limits that fail to account for long-term health risks. This oversight may leave the public vulnerable to serious health consequences from daily wireless radiation exposure. Cell phones are not as innocuous as we have been led to believe The truth about wireless radiation exposure cannot stay suppressed much longer. As more data is being introduced and the lies we’ve been fed come to light, the deception will be exposed. For most people, their cell phone is everything – telephone, banker, search engine, bill paying mechanism, and entertainment. However, there are ways to reduce your exposure to radiation from your cell phone: Reduce your wireless device usage – less time equals less exposure Reduce the proximity of your device to your head by using a wired headset, earpiece, or speakerphone Put a greater distance between your body and wireless devices Opt for texting or instant messaging as opposed to talking (if not using the speakerphone) As often as possible, keep your Bluetooth and Wi-Fi settings turned “off” Simply put, the telecommunications industry will be forced to do better when consumers demand safer devices. Sources for this article include: Cell.com Childrenshealthdefense.org To read the original article click here.

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Avoid Deadly Blood Clots with Two Natural Extracts

The AHA! Team — Mon, 25 Aug 2025 05:27:07 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as many as 900,000 Americans could be affected by venous thromboembolisms (blood clots) every year – with roughly 100,000 dying from them. Believe it or not, the simple act of sitting – for long periods – may be hazardous to your health. The American College of Cardiology reports that sitting at a desk for more than four hours a day increases the odds of deep vein thrombosis by a frightening 48 percent. Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, occurs when a blood clot forms in a vein located deep in the body. In a life-threatening complication, the clot may break loose and make its way to the lung, leading to a potentially fatal pulmonary embolism. Fortunately, recent research shows that you can combat DVT – safely and effectively – with the help of two natural extracts. Blood clots affect close to one million Americans According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as many as 900,000 Americans could be affected by venous thromboembolisms (blood clots) every year – with roughly 100,000 dying from them. In fact, the risks of prolonged sitting are so pronounced many are calling sitting “the new smoking.” In truth, Western medicine offers few real solutions. Anticoagulant medications prescribed by conventionally trained doctors can feature serious side effects – along with the risk of hemorrhage or uncontrolled bleeding. However, recent research shows that two natural substances, French maritime pine bark extract, and nattokinase, can break down small clots before they grow – and even stop them from forming in the first place. Both can inhibit clotting, improve microcirculation in the legs, and increase the elasticity of blood vessel walls. What are the symptoms and signs of a blood clot? Unfortunately, about half the time, there are no apparent signs of deep vein thrombosis. When symptoms occur, they tend to develop suddenly – and can include swelling, fatigue, tenderness, and pain in the affected leg. Reddened skin, otherwise discolored skin, and warm skin on one or both legs can also be warning signs. A previously invisible vein that suddenly becomes visible is also a red flag that may indicate a possible blood clot. Call your doctor if you notice any of these warning signs – especially if they develop suddenly. Of course, aging can make you more susceptible to blood clots – especially when living a sedentary lifestyle. Being obese, smoking cigarettes, having surgery, and taking oral contraceptives can also raise your risk. French maritime pine bark extract: A powerful natural vasodilator Pine bark extract, also known as pycnogenol, is rich in beneficial polyphenols, including procyanidins and phenolic acids. With potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, pine bark extract dilates blood vessels and reduces blood platelets’ stickiness, making them less likely to form clots. French maritime pine bark extract also increases the activity of an enzyme that generates beneficial nitric oxide in blood vessels. Several studies have demonstrated that pine bark extract is especially effective in preventing blood clots from forming after prolonged sitting. French maritime pine bark extract has also been shown to help reduce post-thrombotic syndrome, a common DVT complication in which blood collects in the affected leg and causes swelling, discoloration, and leg ulcers. In a year-long study, French maritime pine bark extract was found to be at least as effective as compression stockings in treating post-thrombotic syndrome. Not only did no new cases occur in the participants who took pine bark extract, but leg and ankle swelling was significantly decreased when compared to the compression stockings group. Researchers concluded that pine bark extract may have significant long-term protective effects following a thrombotic event. Another plus for French maritime pine bark extract is that compliance was better in the pine bark group. Researchers noted that taking the extract was not as “bothersome” to the participants as wearing the compression stockings, especially in warm weather. Nattokinase: A potent protector made from soy Nattokinase is a proteolytic enzyme made from soybeans fermented with a specific bacterium, Bacillus subtilis. It helps to prevent clotting by breaking down fibrin – the main protein found in clots – and also breaks down fibrinogen, the precursor to fibrin. It achieves this without causing side effects or undesirable bleeding. Nattokinase, combined with pine bark extract, has produced impressive results in studies. In a randomized, placebo-controlled human trial published in Angiology, passengers on a lengthy overseas flight were given either a placebo or a nattokinase and pine bark extract combination. The combination prevented each and every passenger who took it from experiencing DVTs. While there were zero DVTs in the supplement group, 5.4 percent of the passengers in the placebo group did experience DVTs. In contrast to the supplement group, passengers in the placebo group experienced a 12 percent increase in leg swelling during the flight – while supplemented passengers actually enjoyed a 15 percent reduction. The conclusion is that nattokinase and French maritime pine bark extract helped to prevent deep vein thrombosis in people who spent long periods sitting – thereby reducing the threat of sudden death from pulmonary embolism. If you must sit at a desk for prolonged periods, experts recommend getting up every hour and walking around for at least five to ten minutes to prevent blood from pooling in your legs. If interested, we suggest you discuss nattokinase and pine bark extract supplementation with your holistic healthcare provider. And, if they don’t know about these substances – find a doctor who understands the value of natural remedies. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Lifeextension.com Globalhealing.com NIH.gov NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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Researchers Admit: Chemo Worsens Quality of Life with No Benefit of Overall Survival in Advanced Stage Cancer

The AHA! Team — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 05:22:16 +0000

Dena Schmidt via NaturalHealth365 – Chemo, as a treatment for cancer, has always been controversial with many patients and healthcare providers doubting its efficacy and safety as a cancer treatment. Bottom line: chemotherapy does trigger more harmful effects than beneficial ones, in many cases. Now, researchers admit that chemotherapy can actually accelerate deterioration in cases of late-stage cancer who still have the mobility and energy for daily activities. Another study published in JAMA Oncology also showed that cancer patients with limited or moderate functioning ability feel worse when undergoing chemotherapy. Is chemo worth the effort? The risks and side effects exposed In the words of the study author and lead researcher, Dr. Holly Prigerson, cancer patients who feel good have “the most to lose and the least to gain” through undergoing chemotherapy. Prigerson is a palliative care researcher at New York Presbyterian Hospital in New York and Weill Cornell Medical College. The side effects of chemotherapy are numerous and include loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, anemia, constipation, bladder issues, bleeding, bruising, edema, hair loss, fatigue, infections, neutropenia, lymphedema, memory loss, difficulty concentrating, throat and mouth issues, nerve issues, pain, sexual and fertility issues, insomnia, and more. Other medical professionals have expressed similar concerns regarding chemotherapy administered near a patient’s death. Doctors have long debated whether the strong, toxic chemicals used in chemotherapy bring enough positive effects to justify the debilitating side effects of chemotherapy. Some have referred to this practice of administering chemo to clients with late-stage cancers as harmful at worst and wasteful at best. Cancer patient warning: Chemotherapy hazards outweigh gains and benefits The above study monitored the chemotherapy effects that 312 cancer patients experienced in their final week of life at six oncology clinics in the United States. Within this group, chemotherapy tended to be administered most often to those who were younger, more educated, receiving treatment at a university medical facility, had pancreatic or breast tumors, and presented additional issues besides cancer. They also were able to engage in their normal daily activities. To assess chemotherapy’s impact, caregivers were interviewed shortly after these patients died. Among those who had high functionality in their last week of life, chemotherapy was shown to reduce their quality of life dramatically, even beyond the impact of being in intensive care or on a ventilator. A lower quality of life was reported versus similar patients who didn’t receive chemo. Sound the alarm: Quality of life should be considered in end-stage cancer cases At the very least, clinical guidelines should be reviewed and revised to adjust for this potential harm from chemotherapy near the end of life. After all, quality of life matters in all cancer cases, and areas like pain control, addressing insomnia, and boosting mood, as well as the potential side effects of chemotherapy, should be given greater consideration. Clearly, chemotherapy isn’t helping patients feel better or live longer in many cases. While the objective is often to fight cancer and tumors with every option, terrible side effects and erosion of quality of life are a heavy price to pay. We would hope that medical professionals take a more cautious approach to prescribing chemotherapy, especially in late-stage cases. Editor’s note: Discover the best ways to avoid cancer cell growth naturally, own the Stop Cancer Docu-Class created by NaturalHealth365 Programs. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov Jamanetwork.com Cancer.gov Reuters.com To read the original article click here.

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Research Links Excessive Oxalates to Breast Cancer

The AHA! Team — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 05:46:57 +0000

Dr. Veronique Desaulniers via NaturalHealth365 – A study conducted by the National University of Cordova in Argentina compared the oxalate levels of breast cancer tumor tissue and regular breast tissue. They found that “all tested breast tumor tissues contain a higher concentration of oxalates than their counterpart non-pathological breast tissue.” Information about little-known compounds called oxalates can be confusing and conflicting. They are often equated with the “bad” substances in foods, but, in reality, oxalates are neither good nor bad. They can become problematic, however, when too many of them accumulate in the body. When there are too many oxalates – they can overwhelm the kidneys and lead to kidney stones and immune deficiency. Furthermore, research indicates that high levels of oxalate in the mammary area have been linked to breast cancer tumor growth as well. The body itself forms most oxalates Oxalates (COOH), or oxalic acid, are strongly acidic substances that help plants and animals metabolize. The body’s functions form about 60% to 80% of oxalates. The other 20 to 40% of oxalates come from food. Most fruits and vegetables contain a small amount of oxalic acid, and they are found in the leaves of plants as opposed to the roots, stalks, and stems. The following foods contain a high amount of oxalates overall: Rhubarb Chocolate Spinach Beet greens Swiss chard Some nuts, especially almonds, cashews, and peanuts Some berries, especially gooseberries Lemon and lime peel Some grains and pasta (except brown rice) Some legumes, especially navy beans, black beans, and soybeans Okra Parsley How are oxalates linked to breast cancer? Oxalates are oxidizing substances. As such, they are extremely volatile and can damage tissue in large amounts. Oxalate crystals cause the formation of kidney stones, which can block the flow of urine and lead to kidney infection and bladder cancer. These crystals are also razor sharp and can cause direct damage and long-lasting inflammation to whatever internal tissues they come into contact with. Oxalate-iron crystals can lead to iron depletion. When calcium-oxalate crystals form, they can lodge in internal organs and bone. As they grow, they crowd out bone marrow, leading to immune deficiency and anemia. Excess oxalates also can chelate heavy metals. However, oxalates trap metals like mercury and lead in tissues, unlike other chelators. Excess oxalate has been linked to fibromyalgia, vulvodynia (vulvar pain), digestive disorders, and autism. The most startling new connection between excess oxalates and disease has to do with breast cancer, however. A study conducted by the National University of Cordova in Argentina compared the oxalate levels of breast cancer tumor tissue and regular breast tissue. They found that “all tested breast tumor tissues contain a higher concentration of oxalates than their counterpart non-pathological breast tissue.” The researchers also discovered that oxalic acid caused tumor proliferation and stimulated the expression of pro-tumor genes. Surprisingly, proliferation did not happen when oxalate was injected into the backs of laboratory mice. This indicates that high oxalate levels do not induce cancer tumor growth in all types of tissue. Three ways to reduce your oxalate levels Obtain calcium from natural foods, not calcium supplements. Calcium has an interesting relationship with oxalates. Approximately 5-15% of the world population will develop some form of kidney stone. Of those, 80% will be calcium-oxalate stones. When calcium is combined with foods that are high in oxalates within the intestines, the two together form an oxalate-calcium crystal that the body cannot absorb. When this happens, a “stone” is formed that will make its way to the kidneys to eventually be eliminated in the urine. The presence of oxalate-calcium crystals, which can block urine flow and cause kidney infection, can also lead to a higher risk of renal, pelvis, and bladder cancers. These same kinds of crystals can also form in the lungs, nerves, brain, bones, blood vessels, and joints. Does this mean you should limit calcium intake if you are prone to kidney stones? Not necessarily. Research conducted on vegetarians found that they did not have higher-than-normal rates of calcium deficiency or osteoporosis caused by oxalate interference. In fact, according to a study published in the European Journal of Epidemiology, vegetarians had a lower rate of kidney stones than meat eaters did. Those who consumed calcium supplements regularly, however, have shown time and again to have higher rates of kidney stones. Calcium supplementation has also been linked to both prostate and breast cancer. Stick to natural and preferably vegetable and fruit-based calcium sources to avoid kidney stones and cancer. Be aware of your protein intake. Be cautious about protein, especially if it is derived from meat and dairy. Oxalates are produced from amino acids in the liver. Amino acids are the building blocks on which proteins are made so some researchers make the connection between total protein amounts and total oxalates formed. For meat-eating women, the general recommendation is around 5 ounces a day. This is equivalent to a small hamburger patty or four eggs. The USDA states that, on average, Americans eat 30% more meat protein than the recommended allowance. Maintain good intestinal flora. According to research, some individuals have a physiology prone to higher levels of oxalate uptake in the digestive tract (thus, a higher risk of kidney stones). Although there is evidence to suggest that hereditary disposition plays a role for some people, there is also a strong link between kidney stone formation and disorders of the digestive system, such as inflammatory bowel disease, leaky gut, and Crohn’s. Could oxalate hyper-absorption have more to do with extreme gut flora imbalance than genetics? The jury is still out on that one. What is known, however, is that it is the job of specific flora, in particular, certain species of Oxalobacter formigenes, Lactobacillus, and Bifidobacteria, to process oxalic acid and prepare it for absorption. Currently, there are several studies underway which focus on the role of oral probiotics in this process. Let food work for you to keep oxalate levels in balance Remember that problems only emerge when there is an excess of oxalates in the system. The standard American diet contributes to oxalate overload, but you can also keep it in check by being proactive with prevention. Eating antioxidant-rich food, consuming citrate-rich lemon and lime juice (which experts say can help prevent calcium-oxalate kidney stones), staying hydrated, and watching your salt intake are other ways to keep kidney stones in check. Also, don’t let the fear of kidney stones prevent you from getting adequate amounts of vitamin C and D. One of the ways that oxalates are formed is through conversion from vitamin C. However, studies thus far have been inclusive as to whether high vitamin C intake actually leads to increased oxalate production. In regards to vitamin D, deficiency of this vital substance has reached pandemic proportions in the developed world, including among those who have experienced kidney stones. Be sure to get your levels checked the next time you get blood work done. Maintaining a healthy balance of all substances in the body, including oxalates, is the only way to achieve and experience true health naturally. Editor’s note: For the finest quality vitamin C and D plus many other supplements, shop LuvByNature today. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov NIH.gov Oxfordjournals.org MDPI.com NIH.gov NIH.gov NIH.gov Sciencedaily.com Scientificamerican.com Nutrition.org To read the original article click here.

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