Free Advice

This advice is provided to Alternative Health Supplies customers as a source of information in their fight against many disease states. This information should be used in conjunction with the advice given by a healthcare professional.

The following information will contain details of nutritional advice as well as help with various supplements and dosage suggestions. A full range of alternative therapies is also discussed.

The information provided is mostly sourced from recent clinical studies carried out throughout the world. This information has been researched by our own consultant pharmacist.

If you have any individual questions to put to our pharmacist please click here. Email pharmacist.

It maybe worth mentioning the term "free radical" at this point. Free radicals are very dangerous elements within the body. Free radicals have the ability to steal electrons from your bodies healthy molecules to balance themselves, and in the process, they harm cell membranes and genetic material.

ADVICE FOR CANCER PATIENTS

General dietary and lifestyle advice for cancer sufferers plus other alternative therapies suggested.

1.DIETARY ADVICE

This list of advice can be used to help prevent and fight cancer and should be used in conjunction with the advice given by a healthcare practitioner. 60% of cancer can be clearly traced to environment or lifestyle factors.

1. Drink 3-4 litres of pure bottled or filtered water each day. Try to avoid water with high calcium content. Drink waters bottled at granite based sources rather than limestone based which contain calcium carbonate. It has been reported that excess calcium carbonate can contribute to the formation of kidney stones . Drinking two litres of water a day can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system and increase the metabolic rate helping burn off an extra 150 calories each day. A natural slimming aid!

Try www.watercure.com.

2. Reduce intake of red meat, preferably to none. Reduce saturated fats; these are the ones that are hard at room temperature. There is a definite link between saturated fats and cancer.

3. Reduce intake of dairy products, preferably to none.

4. No alcohol. More details in "lifestyle changes" section.

5. No tea, coffee or fizzy drinks. However, black, green, oolong and pekoe teas have all been reported to contain high concentrations of the amino acid L-theanine. L-theanine may specifically boost the capacity of gamma delta T cells, the bodys first line of defence against infection.

6. Increase intake of organic fresh fruit, vegetables (particularly in non-hormonal cancers) and fish, in particular oily fish such as sardines and mackerel.

It is best to eat vegetables and fruit raw as cooking destroys natural enzymes in these foods. Apples are a good source of the antioxidant, Quercetin, and grapes are a good source of resveratrol, another powerful antioxidant. Muscadine grapes used to make wine, pies and jam are an excellent source of resveratrol. Resveratol is also found in cranberries and blueberries. Grapes have also been reported to contain pterostilbene which is another anti cancer agent. Green grapes contain far less pterostilbene than darker grapes. A skin cancer-fighting substance called perillyl alcohol is found in tart cherries and the peel of citrus fruits.

Cabbage is an excellent source of nutrients having a good ratio of calories to nutrients that is low in calories but high in nutrients. It contains good amounts of vitamins A, C and B6 as well as calcium , phosphorous and choline. Cabbage also contains three important phyochemicals which are sulphoraphane, indoles and phenolic acids, all of which are believed to help impede the production of cancer cells as well as decrease inflammation.

7. Drink green tea as beverage of choice. Green tea has been reported in the Chemical Research in Toxicology in New York USA, as being able to shut down one of the key molecules that tobacco uses to cause cancer. Another excellent tea to try is Rooibos tea from Cederberg and Olifants River mountain ranges of South Africa. This caffeine-free plant contains high levels of anti-oxidant molecules, used by the plant to avoid potentially cancer-causing damage to its genetic material. There are black and green varieties available.

A recent study of more than 1000 women showed that drinkers of green tea had a reduced risk of breast cancer. Regular drinkers of less than half a cup of green tea each day reduced the risk of developing breast cancer by nearly 30 per cent. Those who consumed more reduced the risk by even more. The effects only apply to green tea drinkers not black tea drinkers.

A study at the Universities of Texas and California in 2002 found that green tea extracts may prevent breast cancer cells from manufacturing the new blood vessels necessary to promote cancer cell growth.

It has been reported that green and black tea may give your immune system a boost. The amino acid L-theanine found in these teas may prompt the liver to secrete more interferon a powerful anti infective agent. A daily intake of 5 cups of tea can significantly help the immune system fight infection. Remember though that refined sugars reduce the effectiveness of the immune system.

8. Avoid polyunsaturated vegetable oils, margarine, vegetable shortening, all partially hydrogenated oils and all foods (such as deep fried foods) that might contain trans fatty acids. A recent study carried out at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Centre in Seattle, Washington USA found that there is an association between the intake of saturated and monounsaturated fats with an increased risk of advanced prostate cancer. However, polyunsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids have no effect on the cancer. It was also found that men with diets in which fat totalled no more than 30 per cent of their daily intake of calories were almost one half as likely to develop advanced prostate cancer as those who consumed higher levels of fat. Researchers also found that a diet with a high calorie intake regardless of the fat content may significantly increase the risk of developing cancer in the first place.

9. Use olive oil for cooking and salad dressings. Only use fresh oil and keep in refrigerator. Rancid oil contains damaging free radicals.

10. Grill, broil or roast meat. Drain off excess fat.

11. Increase intake of Omega-3 fatty acids. Foods rich in these are cold water fish like salmon and trout. Also walnuts and flaxseed.

12. Use only hormone free, organically produced meat, poultry and dairy products. There is a definite link between saturated fats and cancer.

13. Remove all skin from chicken. Choose lean meats.

14. Avoid chargrilled meats. This cooking process produces an increase in heterocyclic amines which are known carcinogens. Marinating meat prior to cooking reduces the amount of carcinogens. It is also worth considering that well done meat contains more dangerous chemicals than rare meat.

15. Avoid processed foods in general. Avoid processed meats in particular, such as spam, cooked sausage, cured pork, meat spreads, dried beef, hot dogs, luncheon meats and smoked fish. These all contain nitrites which are broken down into cancer causing nitrosamines in the body. If you are going to eat these products, always take Vitamin C and Vitamin E which neutralises and inhibits production of nitrosamines.

16. Increase fibre intake. In the bowel, fibre bulks up the stool, increases acidity and reduces the concentration of potentially cancer causing chemicals. A high fibre diet helps with colon, prostate and breast cancer. Experts suggest increasing intake to 20 to 35g per day. This effect is highest when taking fibre from grains, cereals and fruit rather than from vegetables. Studies have shown that doubling the intake of fibre in populations with low fibre intake can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer by 40 per cent.

17. Eat soy foods regularly. Animal and human cell studies show that soy beans have proven anticancer activity. Observational evidence suggests that people who regularly eat soy foods have a reduced risk of cancer of the breast, endometrium, prostate, colon and perhaps other cancers. Try tofu, soy milk or cheese, miso and tempeh. There is, however, some recent evidence against the taking of increased soy in the diet.

18. Eat shiitake, enokidake, maitake or oyster mushrooms frequently. Researchers in China, Japan and Korea have shown that pure extracts of exotic mushrooms have anti-tumour properties and are capable of stimulating the immune system to fight disease. These mushrooms can also reduce side effects due to radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

19. No sugar. Even a single teaspoon can impair the immune system by 50% for several hours.

20. Garlic, onions and chives are involved in the production of enzymes that neutralise cancer-causing chemicals. A single clove of fresh garlic has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. Garlic is also rich in Selenium which has potent anti-oxidant activity. Garlic contains other medically active substances with very useful health benefits. Garlic contains ajoene which can prompt apoptosis or cell death in leukaemic cells. Another garlic compound called allicin may inhibit the growth of mammary and colon cancer cells.

21. Increase folate (folic acid) intake by eating dark green leafy vegetables, oranges, beans, rice and brewers yeast.

22. Increase intake of cooked tomatoes. Tomatoes contain lycopene which has shown benefits in stomach, colorectal, oesophageal, prostate and breast cancer. Tomatoes best cooked in oil which breaks down the cell walls and releases the lycopene which is then absorbed into the oil before ingestion. Good sources of lycopene are tomato puree, sauce, pizza toppings, pink grapefruit and sweet red peppers. Eat with a little cheese as the fat in cheese help dissolve the lycopene and hence aids absorption.

23. Flaxseed oil is a rich source of essential fatty acids, alpha linoleic acid (omega-3 fatty acid) and linoleic acid (omega-6 fatty acid). The entire seed is an abundant source of lignan and studies have shown that lignans have potent anti-cancer activity. This food is particularly good at preventing and helping in breast cancer.

24. A recent US study measured the phenolic and antioxidant activity of 27 culinary herbs and 12 medicinal herbs. Periwinkle, gingko biloba, garden sage, St.Johns wort, valerian and sweet annie all showed up well with significant antioxidant activity. However, the culinary herbs faired even better with oregano being the best. The other good culinary herbs were dill, thyme, rosemary and peppermint. Dried herbs were no good, use only fresh. Substitute one teaspoon with one tablespoon in most recipes! Fresh herbs should stay good in your refrigerator for up to 5 days. Experts recommend wrapping them in a damp paper towel and sealing in an aritight bag.

25. Rosemary. Using a fraction of a teaspoon of dried leaves every day could have cancer prevention benefits.

26. A vegetable based diet will provide the following benefits. Suspected cancer fighting phytochemicals and some of the plant foods containing high levels of them include lycopene found in tomatoes, isoflavones such as soy beans, polyphenol flavonoids such as green tea, organosulphides such as garlic and onions, lignans such as flaxseed, and sulphoraphanes which are contained in the brassica and cruciferous vegetables.

27. A very effective shake for stimulating the immune system is as follows;

1 papaya, peeled, seeded, and cut up
1/2 cup pineapple chunks
1 cup low-fat plain yoghurt
1/2 teaspoon dried mint
1/2 banana
4 ice cubes, crushed..............mix in a blender until smooth. Try it!

28. Turmeric. A recent study from Sri Lanka reported that the cancer mortality rate in Sri Lanka was six times less in women and seven times less in men than in the USA. One of the contributory factors was reported to be the fact that Sri Lankas have high amounts of turmeric in their diets. Turmeric contains curcumin which has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory activity. It also inhibits the growth of new blood vessels in tumours.

29. If you are eating a large meal it would be advisable to include an enzyme supplement with the meal to aid digestion. The modern diet is very heavy and enzyme production can become exhausted as we become older.

30. Always chew your food properly. Enzymes in saliva helps the digestion process. Most food reaches our stomachs before the enzymes in the mouth have properly pre digested it. To compensate for this lack of pre-digestion, stomach acids are over produced leading to heartburn and stomach ulcers. This over production of enzymes puts a strain on the pancreas and endocrine system. A recent study has reported that 100 per cent of people on a western style diet have an enlarged pancreas by the time they are 40. The two practices that can help the body produce sufficient digestive enzymes is to chew food thoroughly and to eat plenty of whole, fresh, organic uncooked foods.

2. SUPPLEMENTS TO CONSIDER

1. Increase Vitamin C intake. Best type is Vitamin C derived from natural sources not artificially synthesised. Acerola fruit derived supplements have a very high Vitamin C content.

2. Multivitamins use over long periods has been shown to reduce colorectal cancer risk by a study conducted by the American Cancer Society in 1992. Regular multivitamin use was defined in the study as being 4 or more times a week over a period of 5 years. The group that used multivitamins regularly had a 30 per cent reduced risk of developing the cancer. The best multivitamins have the following characteristics.

• Avoid a multivitamin that's a hard pill. Few of these formulations break down quickly enough for complete absorbtion. It is best to use a capsule, powder and liquid form.
• Avoid time release vitamins. It is better to multi-dose throughout the day.
• Vitamins are absorbed more efficiently when taken with meals
• Avoid getting too much Iron. Inorganic Iron is a high source of free radicals in the body. It is better to use a multivitamin formulation without Iron.

3. Anti-oxidants such as grapeseed, Vitamin E, Beta-carotene, and Vitamin A .

Grapeseed is one of the strongest anti-oxidants known to man. Grapeseed contains PCO or Procyanidolic Oligomers. PCO has been reported to be 20 times more potent than Vitamin C and 50 times more potent than Vitamin E in their antioxidant activity. PCOs are rapidly absorbed and quickly distributed through the body.For more information on grapeseed click here.

Beta-carotene is a potent anti-oxidant which promote enzymes that inhibit carcinogens and increase white blood cell function. A study in Switzerland demonstrated that patients who had died from all cancers, had statistically lower mean carotene levels compared with the matched group of healthy survivors. More research is needed before its use is proven. Several studies have shown that Beta-carotene supplements can have an adverse effect on prostate cancer although Beta-carotene derived from the diet is okay.

Vitamin A helps the cells mature into their final forms, which helps prevent cells from developing into cancer. It is important to avoid synthetic forms of Vitamin A, use the fish type only.

Even a diet that contains good sources of Vitamin E such as wheat germ and safflower oil, provides only about 30-40iu of Vitamin E each day. A good supplement is required. Not only is Vitamin E a powerful anti-oxidant, it also stimulates and enhances the immune system so that it attacks cancer cells and it also inhibits the production of nitrosamines. Anti-oxidants appear to work better in combination to enhance overall benefit. A good combination might be Vitamin E 100-400iu, Selenium 50-200mcg and Vitamin C at least 200mg.

Try to take the natural form of Vitamin E or d alpha-vitamin E not dl alpha-vitamin E. The body can only utilise half the molecules of the latter form. Try to take a mixed tocopherol variety. Just taking alpha tocopherol will not be as effective as taking alpha with beta, delta and gamma varieties. A study in September 2002 showed that it is gamma tocopherol that is the critical factor in suppressing free radicals. Dietary Vitamin E is rich in gamma whereas supplements seem to contain alpha tocopherol.

4. Selenium and Zinc are trace elements which are powerful anti-oxidants and immune system stimulants.

Selenium is a component of glutathione peroxidase, an anti-oxidant enzyme. Selenium is a trace mineral obtained mainly from food. It enters the food chain through plants, which take it up from the soil. Therefore, ingestion is reflected by the selenium content of the soil in which the plants grow. The dietary intake of this important element in the UK and most of Europe is low due to the low selenium content of the soil. The wheat from the US is much higher in selenium content. In Scandinavia, melted water from the glaciers of the ice age and 10,000 years of rain have washed out a large part of the natural minerals, which is one of the reasons why there is so little selenium in the Scandinavian and Northern European soil.

Dietary sources of selenium include liver, turkey, wheat germ, brewers yeast, butter, fish in particular herring, mackerel, tuna, sole and cod, oysters, garlic, grains, sunflower seeds, seafood, eggs and Brazil nuts. Processed foods lose their selenium for example brown rice has fifteen times more selenium content than white rice. Recommended daily dose of selenium should be 50-200mcg. Ten Brazil nuts provides 200mcg of organic selenium.

A 10 year study has suggested that supplementation with Selenium could be associated with a lower incidence of lung, colorectal and prostate cancers. Another recent study in the USA concluded that men with low blood levels of selenium were four to five more likely to develop prostate cancer than men with normal levels of the mineral.

Selenium should be taken with a supplement of Vitamin E but it has been reported that selenium absorption is reduced by very high doses of Vitamin C. 1-selenomethionine is the organic form of selenium, which is more easily absorbed, with less possibility of side effects.

A new study from Stanford University has shown that men with low blood levels of selenium are four to five times more likely to develop Prostate Cancer than men with normal levels of the mineral. The study also found that levels of blood selenium decreases with progressing age. In this study low levels of blood selenium giving rise to the increased Prostate cancer risk was 8.2-10.7 mcg/dl. The Stanford study suggested a safe plasma level of selenium was 10.8-18.2 mcg/dl.

Selenium has been shown to have particular activity against prostate cancer in combination with other natural substances such as Vitamin E and Vitamin D. Other natural substances that have particular activity against prostate cancer are saw palmetto, milk thistle and spice curcumin or turmeric.

Zinc can help the body prevent cancer and will fight cancer by boosting the immune system. It is particularly useful in prostate disorders. Zinc is found in red meat, fish and poultry. Vegetable fibre reduces the absorption of zinc into the body. The best sources of zinc are red meat, shrimp and crab. One dozen oysters provides 78mg of elemental zinc. The recommended therapeutic range is 30-60mg daily. 55mg of elemental zinc is equivalent to 220mg zinc sulphate. More readily absorbed salts are available such as picolinate, citrate and glycerate. Zinc should be taken with water or juice between meals, that is, on an empty stomach.

5. Folic acid (folate) appears to protect cells from cancer inducing genetic damage from certain chemicals. Good food sources include dark green leafy vegetables such as kale, spinach and romaine lettuce, oranges, beans, rice and brewers yeast. Recommended dose is 400mcg daily.

Some doctors recommend the following daily supplement regime as a prevention and an aid to cancer treatment.

Beta-carotene 10,000-25,000iu
Co-enzyme Q10 100-200mg
Vitamin C 250-1000mg in divided doses
Vitamin E 400-600iu
Folic acid 400-800mcg
Selenium 50-200mcg as l-selenomethionine
Plus a good multivitamin/mineral supplement.

6. Co-enzyme Q10 or ubiquinone is essential for cell energy production and is also a potent anti-oxidant. It is a free radical scavenger and has membrane-stabilising properties. Studies have show that Co-enzyme Q10 has macrophage-potentiating activity in cancer patients with evidence of increased survival rates. Foods containing Co-enzyme Q10 include oily fish such as sardines and mackerel, organ meats such as liver, whole grains, soya beans, nuts and vegetables especially broccoli and spinach. Recommended dose is 100-200mg daily.
For more information on Co-enzyme Q10 click here.

7. Sheep Sorrel tea (Essiac) Rene Caisse Authentic Herbal Tea. For more information click here.

8. Linus Pauling developed an effective formulation containing Vitamin C, L-Lysine and Proline for use in Cancer and cardiac patients. Go to www.lpi.oregonstate.edu for more information.

9. Echinacea is excellent at stimulating the immune system. A potent one a day formulation here.

10. Bovine Cartilage, Lactoferrin and Colostrum supplements are well known to have anti-cancer activities. Bovine Cartilage contains anti-angiogenesis factors which inhibit the growth of new blood vessels, typically seen in malignant tumours, and this mechanism could, in theory, be helpful in human cancer. This starves tumours of oxygen and nutrients causing them to shrink. For more information on click here.

11. Calcium has been reported to bind with cancer promoting fats and bile acids preventing colon cancer. This neutralises their toxic effects and causes them to be excreted without harming the intestinal cells. Calcium will particularly be useful in people with high fat diets. In contrast, a recent study demonstrated how men in the early stages of prostate cancer who reduce their calcium intake may significantly lower the chances of the cancer progressing to an advanced stage. Most studies use 1250mg Calcium with Vitamin D. Make sure an easily utilised calcium salt is used such as calcium lactate. Calcium Lactate 300mg, Calcium Phosphate 150mg and Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol) 10mcg (400iu) is available in combination in tablet form.

12. Omega-3 Fatty Acids have been shown to alleviate the symptoms of depression. However, it has been shown that a combination of two essential fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docohexaenoic acid ( DHA) can prevent depression, heart disease, Alzheimers disease, arthritis, hyperactivity and even some forms of cancer.

13. Arginine has been shown to stimulate the immune system in cancer patients. However, a study has shown that a very high intake of arginine (30g per day) may actually promote cancer cell growth, so adjust your daily dose accordingly. Arginine is found in dairy products, meat, poultry, fish, nuts, rice, whole wheat, soy and raisins. Do not take arginine supplements at the same time as protein foods. Recommended daily dose is 2-12g.

14. N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) or L-Cysteine are amino acids that stimulate the body to produce glutathione, a powerful antioxidant enzyme. It is better to use these supplements that the body itself uses to make glutathione. Glutathione is available as a supplement but is not readily absorbed by the body. Recent research has shown that pre-menopausal women taking Cysteine supplements were 75% less likely to develop breast cancer then those with lower Cysteine levels. The risk was reduced even more among women who had normal body weight. Post-menopausal women also showed benefits. Typical dosage ranges of NAC are 250-600mg daily.

15. Melatonin has been shown in studies to increase the anti-tumour activity of Interleukin, resulting in accelerated tumour regression rates, increased progression-free survival and longer overall survival in patients. Melatonin also reduces the symptoms of chemotherapy. Melatonin is particularly useful in breast and prostate cancer. The usual dose used in studies is 40mg melatonin.

16. Molybdenum is an essential ultratrace mineral that has been reported to neutralise carcinogens. The average adult intake is 120-140mcg each day. Molybdenum is involved as an essential co-factor for several enzymes, including those involved in DNA metabolism. The richest sources of molybdenum are milk and milk products, dried beans and peas, wholegrain cereals, liver and kidney.

17. Laetrile or Vitamin B17. For more information on this supplement click here. Also please go to www.doveclinic.com.

18. Super oxidase dimutase (SOD) is a group of enzymes found in the body which act as scavengers of superoxide radicals and protect against oxidative damage. SOD is not absorbed orally and therefore has only be used effectively via injection.

19. Epilobium (Small flowered Willow Herb) is particularly useful in Prostate cancer.

20. Milk Thistle has been documented to have hepatoprotective, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, antifibrotic and anti-tumour properties. Silymarin is the active component of milk thistle fruit. Silymarin has been shown to have the ability to increase intracellular concentrations of glutathione, a substance required for detoxicating reactions in the liver. Milk thistles active components have been shown in studies to combat prostate, ovarian, skin and breast cancer. Milk Thistle is particularly helpful to those suffering from liver cancer and other liver disorders. Milk Thistle also regenerates injured liver cells.

21. Cats Claw contains alkaloids that have anticancer and anti-oxidant activity. Cats Claw has been reported to stimulate the production of Interleukin. For more information click here.

22. Modified Citrus Pectin (MCP) is a water soluble carbohydrate found in ripe fruits such as apples, grapefruits and plums. MCP has been reported to be useful for anti-metastatic purposes and not for the treatment of primary tumours.

23. Quercetin (apples) has been shown in a recent study in America to slow the growth and curb the spread of pancreatic cancer cells in mice. Quercetin, a powerful antioxidant, effectively inhibited the spread of malignant cells and triggered apoptosis, a series of reactions that cause cancer cells to self-destruct.

24. Tangerines

25. Betulin (White Birch tree)

26. Paw Paw tree bark

27. Mistletoe has potent antitumour activity. Studies have been conducted on patients suffering from breast, cervix, colon, rectum and stomach cancers. The mode of action for cytotoxic activity of mistletoe has been linked to the ability of the basic amino acids present in mistletoe to maintain cell differentiation. As well as anticancer activity mistletoe has immunostimulant activity. Mistletoe should only be used under medical supervision and is contra-indicated in patients with asthma or other allergen sensitive disorders (injectable form only). In the 1970s a study of 547 breast cancer patients using mistletoe after tumour removal had significantly increased 5 and 10 year survival rates when compared with patients receiving only conventional treatment. Another study showed that patients taking mistletoe had upto a 56 per cent higher survival rate than the control group. Cancers affected were colorectal, stomach, breast and lung.

28. Vitamin B12 has been shown to prevent the development of cancer cells. Studies have used doses of 500-750mcg daily.

29. Butterbur or Petasites is a plant with a record of success as a valuable remdy attacking tumours and growths. It is usually taken diluted from the mother tincture with one or two drops added to a glass of water and sipped throughout the day for 8 to 10 days. Butterbur often gives best results in cases of tumours, suspected cancer and actual cancer, when taken together with Viscum alban, the extract from mistletoe.

30. Lactic acid- swabbing external tumours with lactic acid has proved to be effective.

31. Whey concentrates taken orally is now acknowledged to be beneficial in the treatment of cancer. It is thought to be the enzymes used in the manufacture of cheese which contribute to the therapeutic effect of whey products. Whey also contains high concentrations of glutathione precursors including Cysteine. The proteins found in milk whey such as lactoferrin all contribute to the effectiveness of the glutatione precursors.

32. Inositol hexaphosphate (IP-6) is a substance found in cereals, rice, wheat bran and soybeans. IP-6 has been reported to slow or stop the growth of liver cells in mice. IP-6 has an action of making cancer cells revert to bahaving normally thus removing the danger.

Other anticancer supplements and foods that have had reported anticancer activity but, as yet, no definitive human studies are as follows:-

• Turmeric and curcumin- mostly against breast and lung cancer
• Berberine (Golden seal)- appears to kill tumour cells and enhance immune system fuction · Bromelain- derived from the pineapple plant
• Blue-green algae (Spirulina)- this plant is rich in Beta-carotene and other carotenoids
• Broccoli (Sulphoraphane)- this phytochemical is a powerful stimulant of phase 2 enzymes, which block the progression of cancer. All Brassica and Cruciferous vegetables contain this phytochemical. Brussel sprouts have a particularly concentrated amount.
• Grapes (resveratrol)- appears to have anti-oxidant activity and a comprehensive three way action against cancer. It blocks carcinogens from inflicting damage, inhibits the development and growth of tumours and coaxes precancerous cells to revert to normal
• Rosemary- has been shown to prevent breast cancer
• Ellagic acid- found in fruits and nuts such as raspberries, strawberries, grapes, apples, walnuts and pecans. Has preventative activity against skin, liver, oesophageal, lung and cervical cancers.
• Aloes- has been reported to possess antitumour activity.
• Chaparral- contains lignans with anti-oxidant and anticancer activity. Chaparral was reported to have caused regression in malignant melanoma.
• Ginger- extracts of ginger and constituents of ginger have been shown to have cancer prevention and cytotoxic activity.
• Panax ginseng- chemical isolated from the root have antitumour activity.
• Holy thistle- contains lignans and a terpenoid called cnicin. Cnicin has been documented to have antitumour activity. Studies in Korean have shown that individuals taking ginseng had a lower incidence of cancer than those who did not.
• Myrrh- animal studies have shown antitumour and cytotoxic activity.
• Pleurisy root- antitumour activity has been documented for Asclepias albicans and were attributed to various cardenolide constituents.
• Chlorella- is a single-celled freshwater alga. It is rich in chlorophyll. Chlorella may have antitumour and antiviral activities. It may also help patients tolerate chemotherapy and radiotherapy better.
• Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)- is a potent immunostimulant and increases the release of Interleukin-2. It also increased the number of B cells and increased the number and cytotoxicity of natural killer cells.
• Probiotics- observational data suggest that consumption of fermented dairy products is associated with lower prevalence of colon cancer.
• S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe)- is synthesised in the body from the essential amino acid methionine. SAMe is involved in the production of DNA and RNA, neurotransmitters and phospholipids. SAMe is also involved in the regulation of glutathione production, which is an antioxidant. Studies have used doses of 400-1600mg of SAMe.

3. LIFESTYLE CHANGES

1. Increase exercise. A number of studies have shown that have linked regular physical activity to a lower risk of certain cancers. As a guide at least 30 minutes or more of exercise on most days is required. Regular exercise would include walking, swimming, biking, jogging and other aerobic exercise. Exercise bolsters the immune system, speeds food through the digestive tract so that potential carcinogens spend less time in contact with the colon and may moderate sex hormone levels. Beware of exercising too intensely. Studies have shown that extreme exercise can release hazardous free radicals into the body.

It is suggested you exercise several times a week at your target heart rate. This can be calculated by subtracting your age from 220, this is your predicted maximal heart rate. Multiply that by 0.65 and also by 0.80 to obtain your target heart rate range. For example, if you are 50 years old, the range you want to stay within during exercise is 110 to 136 beats per minute.

Here is the calculation

220-50 = 170
then 170x0.65 = 110
and 170x0.80 = 136

Exercise helps the body to be more efficient and is a great help in depressive states. Exercise must include the three exercise elements of cardiovascular load, muscle strengthening and thorough stretching, for example in yoga.

2. Lose weight. Obesity appears to increase the risk of endometrial and breast cancer in post menopausal women. Being overweight has also been linked to other cancers. It has been documented that there is a link between obesity and cancer.

Keep in mind that obesity is defined as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or more. BMIs of 18.5 to 24.9 are considered normal while values of 25 and over are considered overweight. In the USA 56 per cent of people are considered overweight and the UK is not far behind that figure.

Research has shown that obese people have slightly more health problems than people in poverty and far more than daily smokers or heavy drinkers. This indicates that obesity is a higher health risk that poverty, drinking or smoking.

3. Stop smoking. Upto 30% of all cancers in the developed world are tobacco related. Giving up smoking is the single most important action you can do to improve your health. There is also a risk from passive smoking.

4. Reduce alcohol intake. It is okay to have two drinks per day for a man and one drink per day for a woman. It is best though to abstain altogether.

5. Maintain good sleep pattern.

6. Keep healthy. There is a strong link between viral infections and several cancers. All totalled, viral related cancers represent about 11% of all cancers worldwide. Keep your immune system in the best possible condition.

7. Reduce stress levels. Manage work/life balance effectively. Increase the quality of leisure time to suit you. Physical and psychological stress reduces the efficiency of the bodies immune system to combat cancer. Stress releases adrenal hormones such as cortisol into the bloodstream severely reducing the effectiveness of the immune system. Stress also reduces the bodys reserves of important antioxidants such as glutathione. A positive environment should surround a cancer patient with a strong support group of family, friends and health professionals.

8. Reduce exposure to the sun. Studies have shown a definite link between exposure to the sun and increased risk of skin cancer. However, studies have also shown that appropriate amounts of sun may have a preventative effect against breast cancer and other cancers due to the Vitamin A production in the skin. This role has been reported to affect breast, ovarian, colon and prostate cancer.

Studies have shown that sunscreens may not offer protection from the type of sun damage that could cause skin cancer. Sunscreens may protect you from getting burnt but may not protect you from the skin damaging effects of the sun. A sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 20 was shown to give that much protection from the rays that cause sunburn but gave only a SPF of 2 when the free radical damage to tissue beneath the surface of the skin was analysed. This free radical damage corrupts DNA and may prompt skin cancer. This is alarming because people will consider themselves protected from the harmful damage of the sun when in fact they are not.

However, it is important to note that sunlight exposure can be good due to the production of Vitamin D.

Studies have shown that it is the depletion of folic acid in the skin which causes most skin cancers. Folic acid is destroyed rapidly by heat, cold and exposure to light. Folic acid along with Vitamin B12 and zinc are essential for DNA reproduction and repair.

Good dietary sources of folic acid include spinach and other dark green vegetables, brewers yeast, lima beans, cantaloupe, watermelon and liver from organically raised animals.

It has been suggested to supplement with 1000mcg of folic acid per day when exposed to high levels of sunlight or if you have a family history of skin cancer.

9. Radon radioactivity. Check your home for Radon gas. Radon gas is a naturally occurring odourless and colourless radioactive gas which seeps into your home from the soil through the foundations. Concentrations of gas can occur and in conjunction with smoking tobacco can increase the chances of getting lung cancer. Radon test kits are freely available.

10. Hair dye. There have been reports of an increased risk for developing non-Hodgkins lymphoma or multiple myeloma in women who used black hair dye over a prolonged time period. There is a higher risk with darker colours than lighter colours.

11. Saunas have been shown to be a very efficient way of flushing toxins out of the body.

12. Detoxification programmes. It is recommended to purge the body of toxins every three months. Your digestive system needs to be in top shape for optimum health. If your digestive system is not functioning to it optimum level then nutrients are not properly broken down and absorbed. This effect becomes worse with increasing age. For the body to have the best opportunity to heal itself, it must first be free of impurities, pollutants, chemicals and unwanted waste, otherwise the natural internal healing process will be overwhelmed. Internal cleansing enhances these natural healing processes. For further information go to Quick Cleanse.

13. Mind/body healing recovery programme. A diagnosis of cancer will place an enormous stress on the patient and close family and friends. Try building your own programme of lifestyle changes to aid your recovery.

Don't go it alone
Arrange a family meeting for open discussion
Try to resolve deeper personal problems
Assemble your support team
Deepen your spiritual understanding and outlook
Reach out to others in need
Surround yourself with positive people
Adopt a meditation and yoga routine
Investigate retreat programmes
Research your disease! Understand your disease! Fight your disease!
Adopt a positive, pro-active life

14. Night shifts have been reported recently in the USA to increase the risk of developing breast cancer. It is believed that the exposure of light during the night disrupts the supply of melatonin, a substance that dictates the natural cycles that govern sleep patterns. Melatonin has been reported to be a guard against breast cancer.

15. Never reuse plastic bottles. Studies have shown that toxic chemicals from plastic bottles can leach out into the contents.. One of the toxins appeared to be di (2-ethylexyl) adipate, a carcinogen that has been shown to cause liver damage and reproductive problems. When bottles are repeatedly used, the concentration of these toxins gradually increase. Washing of the bottles with warm water and detergants makes matters worse.

4. OTHER ALTERNATIVE TECHNIQUES TO CONSIDER

Alternative Health Supplies is offering this list as a suggestion of what is available to cancer sufferers. We are not recommending or endorsing any of these techniques individually. This list is by no means comprehensive.

1. Homeopathy- works on the principle that like cures like. The majority of homeopathic remedies are derived from plants, although chemical and animal sources are also used. A remedy is chosen that mimics the symptoms displayed by the patient. Homeopathy appears to be safe in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

2. Meditation

3. Visualisation techniques

4. Aromatherapy- works on the principle of the therapeutic use of aromatic substances extracted from plants. The most important group of these substances is known as the essential oils. The most common form of aromatherapy involves massage, but essential oils may be used in a variety of ways. Essential oils should not be taken orally without medical supervision. Essential oils should also be used with caution in patients with certain conditions including epilepsy, hypertension and liver disease.

5. Yoga- a system of adopting postures with related exercises designed to promote spiritual and physical wellbeing.

6. Acupuncture/acupressure- involves inserting small needles in the body to stimulate nerve impulses. Traditional Chinese acupuncture is based on the idea of "qi" (vital energy) which is said to travel around the body along "meridians" that are affected by acupuncture points.

7. Chiropractic techniques- used almost entirely to treat musculo-skeletal complaints through adjusting muscles, tendons and joints using manupulation and massage techniques.

8. Magnetic therapy

9. Prolotherapy and schlerotherapy- strengthens the ligaments to relieve the burden on muscle tissue by chemical injections.

10. Massage

11. Reflexology- a system of foot massage based on the idea that there are invisible zones running vertically through the body. Therefore, each organ has a corresponding location in the foot.

12. Osteopathy- a system of diagnosis and treatment, usually by manupulation, mainly focusing on musculo-skeletal problems. The discipline historically differs from chiropractic in its underlying theory that it is impairment of blood supply and not nerve supply that leads to problems. But in practice there is less difference than might be assumed.

13. Alexander technique- based on a theory that the way a person uses their body affects their general health. It encourages people to optimise their health by teaching them to stand, sit and move according to the bodys natural design and function. This is a taught technique rather than a therapy.

14. Bach flower remedies- the theory behind flower remedies is that flowers contain the life force of the plant and this is imprinted into water through sun infusion, which is used to make the remedy.

15. Hypnotherapy

16. Shiatsu- a type of massage originating from Japan that aims to stimulate the body's healing ability by applying light pressure to points across the body. It relies on the meridian system of "qi" in a similar way to traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture.

17. Healing- a system of spiritual healing, sometimes based on prayer and religious beliefs. It attempts to tackle illness through non-physical means, usually by directing thoughts towards an individual. Often involves the "laying on of hands".

18. Maharishi Ayurvedic medicine- a system derived from the Vedic tradition in India that promotes transcendential meditation. It recommends the use of herbal preperations similar to those used in Ayurdevic medicine and traditional Chinese medicine.

19. Anthroposophical medicine- aims to stimulate a persons natural healing forces through studying the influence of their soul and spirit on their body.

20. Chinese herbal medicine- a tradition of medicine that has been used for thousands of years in China and has its own system of diagnosis. Combinations of herbs are used to treat a wide range of health problems.

21. Eastern medicine (Tibb)- a tradition that synthesises elements of health philosophy from Egypt, India, China and classical Greece. Tibb uses a range of treatments including massage, manipulation, dietary advice and herbal medicine.

22. Naturopathy- a treatment based on the principle that the natural laws of life apply inside the body as well as outside. It uses a range of natural approaches including diet and herbs, and encourages exposure to sun and fresh air to maximise the body's natural responses.

23. Traditional Chinese medicine- based on the theory that the body is a dynamic energy system. There are two types of energy-yin qi and yang qi- and it is thought that an imbalance of yin and yang qi causes symptoms. It uses treatments that aim to restore the balance. These include acupuncture, herbal medicine, massage and an exercise technique called qigong.

24. Crystal therapy- crystals are used to adjust the patients energy field or aura.

25. Dowsing- used in conjunction with other disciplines especially radionics to answer questions through intuitive skills.

26. Kinesiology- is a manipulative therapy by which a patients physical, chemical, emotional and nutritional imbalances are assessed through muscle testing.

27. Radionics- instrument-assisted healing which attempts to detect disease before it has physically manifested itself.

28. Iridology- assessment of health by studying the eye.

29. Schlenz baths- a technique that increases the body's temperature and induces sweating and burns up waste toxins. It has been reported that tumour cells do not tolerate heat well. This treatment also helps the lympathic glands, thus ridding toxins from the body. Research into this treatment claims that tumours are changed and in time dissolve away. It also induces a feeling of relaxation and will aid sleep.

30. Ki-Kou- is a technique using the principles of chi, where breathing and simple postures are employed to increase energy in the body and breathe disease out of the body.

History of Laetrile

Laetrile is the trade name for laevo-mandelonitrile-beta-glucuronoside. This substance was synthesised by Dr. Ernst Krebs after many years of research in 1950. This compound is chemically related to amygdalin.

Amygdalin is found naturally in the pits of many fruits and raw nuts such as apricots. It is also found in other plants such as lima beans, clover and sorghum. Amygdalin was first isolated in 1830 by two French chemists and was used as an anticancer agent in Russia as early as 1845. In the presence of certain enzymes, amygdalin breaks down into glucose, benzaldehyde and hydrogen cyanide. Initial clinical studies showed the substance to be ineffective and too toxic for human use.

Dr. Krebs, in the early 1950s, began to use a purified form of amygdalin to treat cancer patients. This purified form of amygdalin was called Laetrile. More than 20 animal tumour models as well as human studies were performed using Laetrile with no reported benefits documented.

Pharmacology of Laetrile

The theory behind the use of Laetrile in cancer patients is sound but there is still debate as to whether clinical usage is of benefit to this group of patients. Laetrile is harmless to healthy tissue which is a major advantage when dealing with cytotoxic agents. Each molecule of Laetrile contains one unit of cyanide, one unit of benzaldehyde and two of glucose bound together tightly in a chemical bond. An enzyme called beta-glucosidase will break down the bonds holding these chemical units together, thus releasing the toxic chemicals hydrogen cyanide and benzaldehyde. This enzyme is present all over the body in small quantities but in larger quantities (upto 100 times more) at cancerous tumour sites. This gives Laetrile its anti cancer selectivity.

In combination benzaldehyde and cyanide works synergistically to illicit a anti-cancer response 100 times more potent than the chemicals on their own. Furthermore, an enzyme called rhodanese, which is always present in healthy tissue has the ability to break down benzaldehyde and cyanide into harmless components. Malignant cancer cells do not contain any rhodanese and therefore cannot rely on this defence mechanism.

Clinical Studies researching Laetrile

The National Cancer Institute in the USA sponsored several studies into the effectiveness of Laetrile in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The first study, a Phase 1 study was initiated in order to ascertain the appropriate dose, method of administration, and schedule of administration of amygdalin. Researchers found that amygdalin caused minimal side effects although two patients who ate almonds whilst taking amygdalin developed symptoms of cyanide poisoning. Other side effects of amygdalin or Laetrile are reported later in this article.

In 1982, a Phase 11 study with 178 patients at the Mayo Clinic investigated which types of cancer might respond to treatment with amygdalin. Most of the patients on the study had breast, colon or lung cancer. All patients had tumour masses that could easily be measured and most of the patients were in good physical condition. The study included patients for whom no other treatment had been effective or for whom no proven treatment was known. Injections were given for 21 consequetive days followed by oral maintenance therapy as evaluated in the first study. Vitamins and pancreatic enzymes were also given as part of a metabolic therapy which also included dietary modifications. The results were mixed as one patient showed a decrease in tumour size which was only maintained whilst on the amygdalin treatment. In 54% of patients, there was a measurable progression in the growth of the tumour during treatment. Any reported improvement in symptoms ceased once treatment was discontinued. On this basis, the NCI concluded that no further investigation of Laetrile was required.

Legal status of Laetrile

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved laetrile as a treatment for cancer. However, one must bear in mind that the pharmaceutical industry has a close working relationship with the FDA and that it is not in the interests of the large pharmaceutical companies manufacturing cytotoxics to have an effective rival that can be produced from a natural source such as the pits of apricots.

There is without doubt some convincing evidence presented by Ernst Krebs. In combination with the theory postulated by Professor John Beard relating to pre-embryonic cells, the Krebs theory could have substantial benefits for mankind if proved to be true. Krebs idea was that cancer is simply a deficiency of Vitamin B17. The huge increases in cancer cases during the 20th and 21st centuries can be attributed to a move away from our natural diets to a more processed one where natural protective elements such as Vitamin B17 are removed or no longer present.

Further evidence

Independent research has proved that a Himalayan tribe known as the "Hunza" never contract cancer of any kind so long as they continue with their native diet which is exceptionally high in millet and apricots, both containing substantial levels of Vitamin B17. However, once exposed to Western style diets they become vulnerable to cancer.

However good anecdotal evidence is, there is still no substitute for ethical, thorough and methodical clinical studies that can be corroborated. Unfortunately, there is no such evidence in favour of amygdalin, Laetrile and Vitamin B17 as a treatment for cancer.

Side Effects of Laetrile

The side effects of Laetrile are the same as the symptoms of cyanide poisoning. The symptoms include nausea and vomiting, headache, dizziness, bluish discoloration of the skin, liver damage, abnormally low blood pressure, droopy upper eyelid, fever, mental confusion, difficulty in walking, coma and death. All these symptoms can be increased by ingesting raw almonds or crushed fruit pits and eating certain types of fruits and vegetables such as celery, peaches, bean sprouts and carrots. High doses of Vitamin C can also increase the likelihood of symptoms.

Food sources of Laetrile

In addition, there are many other foods that contain Vitamin B17. These include apple seeds, alfalfa sprouts, apricot kernels, bamboo shoots, barley, beet tops, bitter almonds, blackberries, boysenberries, brewers yeast, brown rice, buckwheat, cashews, garbanzo beans, gooseberries, huckleberries, lentils, lima beans, linseed meat, loganberries, macadamia nuts, millet, millet seed, peach kernels, pecans, plum kernels, quince, raspberries, sorghum cane syrup, spinach, sprouts, mung beans, strawberries, walnuts, watercress and yams.

There is a fair chance that Vitamin B17 can help prevent cancer, but if one already has cancer, then a complete protocol is required which will include diet, exercise, enzymes, and vitamin supplements. This treatment should be undertaken under the supervision of an alternative physician.