Beating the Odds - Part One

By Marion Algier  -  Ask Marion  -  Cross-Posted at THITW

1600+ Americans die every day of Cancer.  At the turn of the 20th Century 1 in 200 Americans developed Cancer… today (2015) 1 out of 3 Americans will have Cancer during their lifetime.

I have been blessed to have been amazingly healthy all my life.  I was days short of turning 62-years-old, had never been in a hospital for anything related to myself and had probably only ever been to see a doctor 20 times in my entire life when I was diagnosed with Uterine Cancer. And although my father, who had been just as healthy all his life as I’ve been until he was stricken with Colon Cancer at age 62… and died at age 63, it never really occurred to me that I would ever have Cancer.  After our dad died, the doctor told us that chances were very high that one of us 3 kids would develop Colon Cancer and it was something we should watch out for and be tested for.  My brother died at age 21 so my sister and I jokingly said more than once, “Well, since Rick is no longer with us, let us hope that it would have been him that was destined to come down with the Cancer.”

After closing our business as a result of the tough economy, my husband and I had moved in with his 80 plus year old parents to get back on our feet and to help take care of them. His father was in late stage Alzheimer’s and his then 82-year-old mother was overwhelmed, suffering from Rheumatoid Arthritis, had failing hearing, and as I call them, suffered from senior related conditions and ailments.  And after inheriting a substantial amount of money from their parents and a couple aunts, they made a number of unwise purchases and unguaranteed loans and then got scammed by a Jamaican ring that prays on the elderly and uninformed.  Before anyone realized it, they not only bankrupted themselves but scavenged their grandchildren’s college funds as well as opened a reverse mortgage that they overdrew once the housing bubble burst, so their house was essentially gone too!  I have been an unpaid caregiver for over two years in a stressful environment, and still am, and my architect husband an unpaid handyman and part-time caregiver while applying for and trying countless part-time and commission jobs that went nowhere and sometimes cost us money.  Then he got a lead and went to truck driving school which gave us medical coverage after 3-months.

I had known for several months that  something was wrong; I was sick.  But even though insurance companies can no longer deny you coverage due to pre-existing conditions, they can charge you high premiums because of them. So I waited to go to the doctor until I knew we had coverage and could go without having costly pre-existing conditions.  As it was we had had 12k family co-pay.

On October 1st, a week before my 62nd birthday, I was diagnosed with stage 3 inoperable (because of the location of the tumor and the outlying ribbons from the tumor) Uterine Cancer.  And from the looks in their eyes and little innuendoes, I could see that nobody other than my husband and our new GP thought I was going beat the disease.

At some point you start feeling alone unless you make contact with other Cancer patients or Cancer survivors because nobody understands what the disease or the treatments are like unless they have gone through it.  And even with a support group of family, friends and Cancer survivors, get used to feeling both lonely and alone.  For me it was probably worse because my husband got a job where he was gone weeks, sometimes nearly two months without coming home for usually 4 or 5 days.  He gave up being home for any of the major holidays including Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Years and even his birthday in order to be there for my chemo treatments.  At first that seemed like a fair trade but after the first couple of treatments, the company stopped making the effort to get him home.

Video:  How the American Cancer Society spins survival data

Natural Society:  Recently, the results of a study claiming that most Cancers are caused by “bad luck” have been floating around in the mainstream media. This sounds like we should all just give up and accept our likely fates of cancer, chemo, and death, right? However, there is a mountain of evidence showing that cancer is in fact preventable, partly because tumor development is a bit too complex to be bad luck.

Most Cancers are “Beyond Your Control’ Due to Mutations

For many years, the “Mutational Theory” has been the dominant explanation for cancer’s origin. The story goes like this: accumulated mutation in all the right places lead to the affected cell going “crazy,” and instead of destroying itself after this damage, it grows out of control until vital processes are obstructed. Then, the heroic oncologists attempt to wage war against this monster with one or more of the standard trio of chemo, radiation, and surgery…with often disappointing results.

One 2004 study of thousands of patients found that chemo is less than 10% effective at saving lives, contributing only 2.1-2.3% of the 5 year survival rate. This was deemed to be the upper limit of effectiveness.

More recently, it was reported that out of 54 cancer drugs released since 2004, three quarters of them did not extend life. Unfortunately, chemotherapy is often forced on young people who refuse it, such as in a recent case involving a Connecticut teenager, meaning it could be considered as a tool or form of oppression. Therefore, it’s wonderful that in actuality, cancer is not the result of chance or luck, as well as being unlikely; and the theories behind the development of cancer drugs are most likely incorrect.

Read: 4 Cancer-Fighting Foods

What is the nature of a tumor? Tumors express organized behaviors including building their own blood supply; silencing some genes and activating others; secreting corrosive enzymes; altering their metabolism for low oxygen and high sugar, acidic environments; as well as removing surface proteins to escape the immune system.

A new theory, however, states that cancer is actually a highly efficient, pre-programmed stress response. According to the author’s research, cancer is an evolutionary throwback from a genetic “tool kit” over a billion years old that is normally buried dormant deep within the genome, called Metazoa 1.0.

Cells with the genetics of Metazoa 1.0 would have favored traits that enable them to survive a much harsher environment with features such as extremely low oxygen. The trait of incessant proliferation was the default state of these primitive cells, when simply not dying was the first priority of individual cells.

There was no tissue specialization that organisms could use to protect themselves, so genes providing extreme resilience against assault and creating a highly “selfish” form of behavior was necessary. While the mutation theory is partially true, genetic damage is responsible for unmasking a primitive set of genes instead of being solely responsible for tumor development.

Additionally, an analysis of gene expression patterns has indicated that when the level of oxygen decreases, the rate of glycolysis (a pathway of cellular energy production that does not require oxygen) increases, and this leads to a vicious cycle of accelerated tumor growth and further reductions in oxygen. The production of new blood vessels to ensure a supply of glucose only gives temporary breaks from this cycle.

The current understanding of this is that glycolysis is not only faster at generating energy when glucose is abundant, but also that glycolysis provides some of the raw materials needed for rapid cell proliferation. A key driver of this process was found to be reduced energy efficiency caused by factors such as hypoxia, which triggers a dramatically increased glucose uptake and a switch to glycolysis. This can also allow the tumor to select “positive” mutations such as those that upregulate Cancer promoting genes and silence or delete suppressor genes, no random mutations required.

Read: Little Known Chinese Herb and Iron Kill Crazy Amount of Cancer Cells

When seven cancer types were tested, expression of genes turned on only during replication increased as oxygen levels dropped. Therefore, cancer is not a time bomb or a result of bad luck, but instead caused by an ancient survival response to a toxic environment, unnatural diet and compromised immunity.

So what can we do to prevent Cancer, besides reducing excessive dietary sugar?

6 Tips for Preventing Cancer

• 1. Regular coffee consumption can reduce the incidence of some Cancers, but watch the acidity levels of your body. Book: The Acid-Alkaline Food Guide - Second Edition: A Quick Reference to Foods & Their Efffect on pH Levels

• 2. A review from 2012 found that sun exposure may also lower the risk of Cancers such as breast, colon, and pancreatic cancer, because of vitamin D synthesis (getting burnt will remove the benefits), and prolonged or excessive sun exposure can cause skin Cancer.

• 3. A study of almost 24,000 participants showed that those taking antioxidant supplements from the beginning had a 48% reduced risk of cancer. This can mean that increased antioxidant intake from food or supplements can reduce cancer incidence, as many other studies show that certain foods high in antioxidants and other nutrients have the ability to protect against Cancer.

• 4. Quit smoking. Cigarette smoking, which depletes antioxidants, is responsible for a third of all Cancer deaths in many countries.

• 5. Reduce or eliminate, if possible, the use of pharmaceutical drugs. Statins, the contraceptive pill and many others are associated with a higher risk of Cancer.

• 6. Interestingly, cannabis smoking is associated with a 45% reduced risk of bladder cancer and a 47-62% reduced rate of head and neck cancer, regardless of whether or not they had been infected with HPV.  And using hemp oils increases the survival success rate of treatments like chemo and radiation by 25%.

Despite what the mainstream media tries to make people believe, Cancer is indeed preventable and not caused by “bad luck.” This is good news, because not only are Cancer and its conventional treatments very debilitating and distressing, but they hinder control over one’s life – which is a natural psychological need, as described by self-determination theory.

So what can you do if you are diagnosed with Cancer?

After you are diagnosed:

• Take control of your destiny. 
• Do your homework.
• Question the treatments the doctors suggest.
• Look for alternatives. 
• Add natural cures and aids to the traditional western medical treatments even if you decide to go that route. 
• Have a back-up plan. 
• Keep up your attitude. 
• Cut your stress.
• Pray.
• Be positive.
• Stay out of the doldrums and away from pity parties as much as possible. 
• Surround yourself with things that make you happy… pets, photos, music, etc. 

• Limit your exposure and dealings (as much as you can) to negative people and situations.
• Make plans for the future.

Because my husband was gone regularly through my entire treatment time, and my father-in-law was in the late stages of Alzheimer’s at home and died during the first four months of my treatment, I had no choice but to rely on myself for my attitude, research and to be prepared for any and all side affects from the treatments.

I think I did a pretty good job through the chemo process and with each check-up my oncologist was shocked at my progress. 

• I never questioned that I would beat my Cancer
• I prayed and talked to God daily, throughout the day, in a positive manner; thanking Him for curing me and making me completely Cancer free.
• I moved 600 photos that made me happy onto my phone and kept adding to it.
• Our four furkids, a Chihuahua and three Chiweenies, never left my side.
• I visualized my tumor and the outlying ribbons shrinking and being gone daily.
• I only ever allowed myself one 10-minute pity party.
• I drank a teaspoon of baking soda in water every morning, sometimes twice a day.
• I ingested 4 squirts of food grade hydrogen peroxide daily.
• I used the oxygen machine provided by hospice for my father-in-law every evening for 5 to 10 minutes and inhaled the pure oxygen.
• I got a vitamin B Complex shot weekly.
• I took vitamins, iron, probiotics, krill oil and phytoplankton daily.
• I researched every option from hemp oils and  immunotherapy to alternative health centers like Sanoviv.
• I added things like raw sauerkraut fermented with whey, extra protein and more organic veggies, fruit and meat to my diet. 

Sources:

Time

Experimental treatment uses immune system to fight Cancer – Immunotherpy coming to US in 2015

Breakthrough! Have The Israelis Developed A Cure For Cancer?

A Natural Herb That Fights Cancer, or Chemotherapy for Your Sick Pet… Which Would You Choose?

This New Drug Appears to Cause Cancer Cells to Self-Destruct

How to Stave the Cancer Out of Your Body

Beat Prostate Cancer Naturally

America’s Drug Story and the Rockefeller Empire 

Ella institute for melanoma - Dr. Gal Markel

Books

The Ultimate Anti-Cancer Cookbook: A Cookbook and Eating Plan Developed by a Late-Stage Cancer Survivor with 225 Delicious Recipes for Everyday Meals, Using Everyday Foods

 The Acid-Alkaline Food Guide - Second Edition: A Quick Reference to Foods & Their Efffect on pH Levels

Natural Remedies to Relieve Stress and Anxiety

Knoji:

It seems there is always something new that causes us more stress and anxiety. You can try these natural remedies to relieve your stress and anxiety.

Stress and anxiety can be very damaging to our mental and physical health and in today’s world there are all kinds of reasons for stress and anxiety.

In ancient times, when people were under stress it was either fight or flight. Our bodies are made up to change physically and mentally when under stress that causes us to think of fight or flight. Except in today’s world we usually cannot fight or flight, so we sit still while under stress which causes even more stress to build up. If that anxiety and stress continues for too long without resolve, you can actually have a nervous breakdown.

Stress can actually cause us to gain weight. It is now known that stress causes belly fat to accumulate. Stress causes our blood pressure to rise; neither of these health conditions are good for our health. It is important we find ways other than fight or flight to relieve stress, here are some natural remedies to relieve stress.

Exercise as a Natural Remedy to Relive Stress and Anxiety

Exercise is one of the best ways to relieve stress, as long as exercise is okay with your doctor.

• Going for a fast 30 minute walk can really relieve tension, anxiety and stress.
• Riding an exercise bike for 10 minutes or longer is great.
• Join an aerobics class and work up a sweat
• Yoga is great to relieve stress
• Tai chi, an ancient exercise is slow and very calming, it has been called moving meditation and can be done by anyone of any age.
• Get a punching bag, a great natural remedy to relive stress and anxiety.

For more specific stress relieving exercises read Ways of coping with stress

Limit Caffeine

Too much caffeine like coffee, pop, energy drinks and some teas can increase your stress level. It is odd, but many people actually drink more coffee when under pressure or stress which of course leads to more anxiety and stress.

If you were to eliminate caffeine from your daily diet, you would be surprised at how calm you will feel during the day, all day, even during stressful times. Many think they just cannot do without that morning, afternoon and evening cup of coffee.

Start by limiting yourself to a couple of cups in the morning only and no more for the rest of the day. And then try to quit drinking coffee and all other drinks that have caffeine in them.

Lavender for Stress and Anxiety Relief

The essential oil of lavender has been used for centuries for healing purposes. One of these health reasons is for its calming effects during times of stress and anxiety.

You can take a hot bath with the lavender oil added to the water, you can put a few drops of the lavender oil on your pillow which will help you sleep, have a lavender potpourri in your home and you can have a massage with it.

Bach Rescue Remedy

As with all natural remedies, they can work wonders for some people and not work at all for others. Rescue Remedy made by Bach Flower Remedies is one I have tried myself during times of anxiety and high stress and it actually did have a calming effect on me.

I tried the spray version and you just spray twice on your tongue and it could relieve your stress and calm you. You can find this natural remedy in your health food stores.

Eat a Light Diet

A simple natural remedy is to change your diet. Eating meals that are high in fat and or fried foods can cause the blood pressure to rise and increase stress during stressful times. Eating a lighter diet will help your digestion, keep your blood pressure from rising and possibly help you feel less stress.

A lighter diet means eating less and lighter foods like more vegetables and legumes in place of a large serving of meat or fried foods.

Meditation and Breathing

Learn to meditate. It is not hard to learn and with practice, meditation is a great way to relieve stress. Learning deep breathing techniques can also relieve stress.

Vitamin B Complex Relieves Stress

A good multivitamin that has plenty of the B vitamins or just a B complex vitamin every day is very good for the nerves and can relieve stress and anxiety. If your diet is lacking in some or all of the B vitamins, that could be one reason you have so much anxiety or stress.

Talk Therapy

Talk therapy can really help reduce negative thinking which turns into worrisome thoughts which almost always causes undue stress. There are three types of talk therapy; cognitive, behavioral and interpersonal. To relieve stress, cognitive therapy should be the best. Talking with a trained professional can show you how to stop the negative thoughts and relive the stress. You can talk more freely with a talk therapist than you might with a friend or relative and it is much better than talking to yourself.

Valerian as a Natural Remedy to Relieve Stress

Valerian has been used for centuries to help with insomnia and relieve stress and anxiety. Germany’s E Commission has approved valerian as an effective sedative. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration has categorized valerian as GRAS (generally regarded as safe).

Valerian is a plant and the root of this plant is what is used for the natural remedy. You can buy valerian in the form of a tincture, as a tea or in a powdered form in capsules. You can make your own tea by pouring 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of dried valerian root and let that steep for 5 – 10 minutes. You can also buy commercially prepared valerian root tea bags at your local health food store.

In some people valerian actually has the opposite effect, causing more anxiety and restless, so be aware of this. Something else to be aware of, valerian does not smell very good, it doesn’t taste bad though.

There are possible drug interactions with valerian and you should not take valerian if you:

• Tricyclic depressants like Elavil
• Do not take valerian if you have had alcohol
• Barbiturates
• Xanax or Valium
• Anticonvulsants
• Any drug that is for insomnia like Ambien, Sonata, Lunesta or Rozerem
• Antihistamines
• Statin or other blood pressure lowering medicines
• Possibly some antifungal drugs

To be safe, you should ask your doctor about taking valerian if you are on any medications.

Conclusion

Stress and anxiety are becoming so common today that some might take it as a normal way to live, but you don’t have to. There are numerous natural remedies to relieve stress and anxiety and these remedies should be tried before turning to medications.

Copyright Sam Montana October 2, 2010

Resources

Valerian - University of Maryland Medical Center

Article photo by Maga-Chan

Technorati Tags: anxiety disorders,stress,natural remedies,holistic cures,stress relief

Dog and Cat Vaccines are Not Harmless Preventive Medicine

The dangers of vaccines are surfacing for children, people in general, and now pets (below), See: New Organization VaxTruth Fights Vaccine Damages

Story at-a-glance

• Vaccinosis is a condition recognized almost exclusively by the holistic veterinary community. It is not generally acknowledged by traditional veterinarians.
• Dr. Richard Pitcairn defines vaccinosis this way: “Vaccinosis is to be understood as the disturbance of the vital force by vaccination that results in mental, emotional, and a physical change that can, in some cases, be a permanent condition.”
• Vaccines are composed of modified live viruses, killed viruses and a number of potentially toxic substances. They also enter the body in an unnatural way (by injection) compared to real viruses. They bypass the body’s first lines of defense and are delivered directly to the blood and lymph systems.
• Vaccine reactions, or vaccinosis, are wide-ranging. Some reactions are relatively minor, while others are life-threatening.
• Fortunately, the traditional veterinary community is slowing becoming aware that vaccines are not the benign disease-prevention tools they were once thought to be.

Video: Vaccinosis and Your Pet

Download Interview Transcript

By Dr. Becker  -  Dr. Mercola.com – Cross-Posted at Just One More Pet

I talk a lot about vaccine dangers here at MercolaHealthyPets, and I often mention a condition called vaccinosis.

Since vaccinosis isn’t recognized by most traditional veterinarians and isn’t something many pet owners have ever heard of before, I thought it would be helpful to do a short video to explain the condition.

Vaccinosis Defined

First, let’s talk about what vaccinosis isn’t.

It isn’t an acute, often immediate adverse reaction to a vaccine. Adverse events, or hypersensitivities, whether mild (such as lethargy, flu-like symptoms, etc.), or severe (such as anaphylactic shock), that are clearly linked to a recent vaccination are widely acknowledged by the traditional veterinary community.

Unfortunately, these reactions are considered by traditional vets to be occasional aberrations of a basically safe procedure.

Vaccinosis, on the other hand, is a problem only holistic veterinarians seem willing to acknowledge. It is a reaction of a pet’s body to vaccines that have been injected without the pet having experienced a notable adverse event or hypersensitivity. These are chronic reactions to not only the altered virus contained in the vaccine, but also to the chemicals, adjuvants, and other components of tissue culture cell lines -- as well as possible genetic changes -- that can be induced by vaccines.

Dr. Richard Pitcairn, who holds a PhD in immunology, defines it this way: “Vaccinosis is to be understood as the disturbance of the vital force by vaccination that results in mental, emotional, and a physical change that can, in some cases, be a permanent condition.”

Dr. Pitcairn: Vaccines Create Chronic Disease

According to Dr. Pitcairn, vaccines intended to protect pets against acute natural diseases actually create chronic conditions with features of the disease the vaccine was supposed to prevent.

This transformation happens in the laboratory, where natural viruses are modified in order to make vaccines.

Where the natural virus would trigger a strong immune system response, the modified lab-created virus in the vaccine doesn’t elicit much of a reaction by the animal’s immune system. Instead, it creates chronic disease.

The delivery of a vaccine is also very different from how a natural disease develops in an animal’s body.
Vaccines contain a number of toxic substances, including viruses, mutated bacteria, immune irritants, foreign proteins, and chemical preservatives. All of these toxins are delivered by injection directly into the blood and lymph, bypassing the usual first line of defenses, including the skin, mucous membranes, saliva, and so forth. So not only is the virus in the vaccine unnatural, the way it enters a pet’s body is also very unnatural.

When you look at the situation from this perspective, it’s easy to see how abnormal immune reactions are triggered by vaccinations.

Your Pet’s Individual Risk of Vaccinosis

The strength and balance of every animal’s immune system is different, so there’s no way to predict – unless your dog or cat has had a reaction in the past -- how much danger your pet is in from exposure to the modified virus contained in any given vaccine or the many toxic ingredients it contains.

That’s why I strongly encourage pet owners to avoid all unnecessary vaccines and re-vaccinations.

Symptoms of Vaccinosis

Common vaccine reactions include:

• Lethargy

• Stiffness

• Hair loss

• Lack of appetite

• Hair color change at injection site

• Conjunctivitis

• Fever

• Sneezing

• Soreness

• Oral ulcers

More serious reactions:

• Immunosuppression

• Granulomas and abscesses

• Behavioral changes

• Hives

• Vitiligo

• Facial swelling

• Weight loss

• Allergic hypersensitivity

• Reduced milk production (females)

• Respiratory disease

• Lameness

• Allergic uveitis

Very severe illness:

• Injection-site sarcomas (cancer)

• Glomerulonephritis

• Anaphylaxis

• Myocarditis

• Autoimmune arthritis

• Encephalitis or polyneuritis

• Polyarthritis

• Seizures

• Hypertrophic osteodystrophy

• Abortion

• Autoimmune hemolytic anemia

• Congenital abnormalities

• Immune-mediated thrombocytopenia

• Embryotic (fetal) death

• Thyroiditis

• Infertility

Dog and Cat Vaccines: The Importance of Exercising Caution

Since the introduction of dog and cat vaccines, the traditional view of their use has been that they are safe and can be given as frequently as once or twice a year. This approach, tragically, has caused a tremendous amount of suffering for millions of pets.

As the truth about the dangers of vaccines slowly emerges, even traditional veterinary organizations and practitioners are acknowledging that vaccines are not the benign, “better safe than sorry” veterinary tools they were thought to be.

My recommendations for vaccinating your pet can be found in several videos, articles, and interviews here at MercolaHealthyPets. Most importantly, I don’t recommend automatic re-vaccinations at prescribed intervals for any pet.

If you believe your pet could be suffering from the negative effects of over-vaccination, I strongly recommend you work with a homeopathic or holistic vet to create a tailor-made vaccine detox program to assist your dog’s or cat’s body in recovering from vaccinosis.

Related:

Do Vaccinations Affect the Health of our Pets?

New Parasite Prevalence Maps Help Pet Owners Prepare

Technorati Tags: vaccinosis,vaccine dangers,vaccine dangers in pets,Dr. Mercola,Dr. Becker,dogs and cats,cats and dogs,pet health,alternative vet care,holistic veterinary community,holistic vets,natural pet remedies,common sense,Big Pharma,Big Business,pet vaccines,JOMP,Just One More Pet,VaxTruth,Autism,Autism on the rise,Big Brother,Big Government,Bill Gates,childhood immunizations,childhood vaccines,Dr. Russell Blaylock,immunizations,ObamaCare,ROCKEFELLER,ROCKEFELLER DRUG EMPIRE,vaccine court,vaccines,wake-up America

Slow Down Aging by Cooking with Lemon Juice

Whatever you put in your pan for dinner tonight, make sure you add a few squeezes of this: lemon juice.

A new study shows that marinating meats in lemon juice -- or vinegar -- can help greatly reduce the production of harmful compounds linked to aging and chronic disease.

Cooking Compounds
All foods -- but especially ones derived from animals -- contain varying levels of compounds called advanced glycation end products (AGEs). These compounds are known to cause inflammation and may open the door to faster aging. Cooking -- especially high-heat methods -- increases formation of AGEs. But now new research suggests that marinating foods in an acidic, low-pH liquid -- like lemon juice or vinegar -- may help slow that formation down significantly. AGEs in beef were cut in half after marinating for an hour -- but shorter amounts of time may help, too. (Find out what spice may help prevent the production of HCA, another harmful cooking compound.)

How AGEs Age
Meats and full-fat cheeses contain the most AGEs, followed by pork, fish, and eggs -- although even fruit, vegetables, and whole grains may contain small amounts. Marinating your food is one way to minimize AGEs. Another option: Cook over low, moist heat. Boiling, poaching, steaming, and stewing are all great choices. (Learn more about AGE compounds from the RealAge docs -- and why they're such a big health deal.)

Here's another tasty way to slow aging with the foods you eat: go international.

Asparagus -- Who knew ?

My Mom had been taking the full-stalk canned style asparagus that she pureed and she took 4 tablespoons in the morning and 4 tablespoons later in the day.. She did this for over a month. She is on chemo pills for Stage 3 lung cancer in the pleural area and her cancer cell count went from 386 down to 125 as of this past week.
Her oncologist said she does not need to see him for 3 months.
 
THE ARTICLE:

Several years ago, I had a man seeking asparagus for a friend who had cancer. He gave me a photocopied copy of an article, entitled, Asparagus for cancer 'printed in Cancer News Journal, December 1979. I will share it here, just as it was shared with me: I am a
biochemist, and have specialized in the relation of diet to health or over 50 years. Several years ago, I learned of the discovery of Richard R. Vensal, D.D.S. that asparagus might cure cancer. Since then, I have worked with him on his project We have accumulated a number of favorable case histories. Here are a few examples:

Case No. 1, A man with an almost hopeless case of Hodgkin's disease (cancer of the lymph glands) who was completely incapacitated. Within 1 year of starting the asparagus therapy, his doctors were unable to detect any signs of cancer, and he was back on a
schedule of strenuous exercise.

Case No. 2 , a successful businessman 68 years old who suffered from cancer of the bladder for 16 years. After years of medical treatments, including radiation without improvement, he went on asparagus. Within 3 months, examinations revealed that his bladder tumor had disappeared and that his kidneys were normal.

Case No. 3, a man who had lung cancer. On March 5th 1971, he
was put on the operating table where they found lung cancer so widely spread that it was inoperable.

The surgeon sewed him up and declared his case hopeless. On April 5th he heard about the Asparagus therapy and immediately started taking it By August, x-ray pictures revealed that all signs of the cancer had disappeared..

He is back at his regular business routine.

Case No. 4, a woman who was troubled for a number of years with skin cancer. She finally developed different skin cancers which were diagnosed by the acting specialist as advanced. Within 3 months after starting on asparagus, her skin specialist said that her skin
looked fine and no more skin lesions. This woman reported that the asparagus therapy also cured her kidney disease, which started in 1949. She had over 10 operations for kidney stones, and was receiving government disability payments for an inoperable, terminal, kidney condition. She attributes the cure of this kidney trouble entirely to the asparagus.

I was not surprised at this result, as `The elements of materia medica', edited in1854 by a Professor at the University of Pennsylvania , stated that asparagus was > used as a popular remedy for kidney stones. He even referred to experiments, in 1739, on the power of asparagus in dissolving stones. Note the dates! We would have other case histories but the medical establishment has interfered with our obtaining some of the records. I am therefore appealing to readers to spread this good news and help us to gather a large number of case histories that will overwhelm the medical skeptics about this unbelievably simple and natural remedy.. 

For the treatment , asparagus should be cooked before using, and therefore canned asparagus is just as good as fresh. I have corresponded with the two leading canners of asparagus, Giant and Stokely, and I am satisfied that these brands contain no pesticides or
preservatives.

Place the cooked asparagus in a blender and liquefy to make a puree, and store in the refrigerator. Give the patient 4 full tablespoons twice daily, morning and evening. Patients usually show some improvement in 2-4 weeks.. It can be diluted with water and used as a cold or hot drink. This suggested dosage is based on present experience, but certainly larger amounts can do no harm and may be needed in some cases. As a biochemist I am convinced of the old saying that `what cures can prevent.' Based on this theory, my wife and I have been using asparagus puree as a beverage with our meals. We take 2 tablespoons diluted in water to suit our taste with breakfast and with dinner. I take mine hot and my wife prefers hers cold. For years we have made it a practice to have blood surveys taken as part of our regular checkups.

The last blood survey, taken by a medical doctor who specializes in the nutritional approach to health, showed substantial improvements in all categories over the last one, and we can attribute these improvements to nothing but the asparagus drink.

As a biochemist, I have made an extensive study of all aspects of cancer, and all of the proposed cures. As a result, I am convinced that asparagus fits in better with the latest theories about cancer. 

Asparagus contains a good supply of protein called histones, which are believed to be active in controlling cell growth.. For that reason, I believe asparagus can be said to contain a substance that I call cell growth normalizer. That accounts for its action on cancer and
in acting as a general body tonic. In any event, regardless of theory, asparagus used as we suggest, is a harmless substance. The FDA cannot prevent you from using it and it may do you much good. It has
been reported by the US National Cancer Institute, that asparagus is the highest tested food containing glutathione , which is considered one of the body's most potent anti-carcinogens and antioxidants.

These are the colors that represent the different cancers.

The Root Cause of Cancer Almost Universally Ignored by Doctors...
Fifty years after the 'War on Cancer' began, it's clear we've lost the war. But YOU can win your own particular battle by knowing this underlying cause of cancer... 6 significant risk factors... 3 cancer advancements that can save your life (which you likely won't hear from your doctor)... and these 12 preventive tips for a cancer-free life...

Making Your Own Herbal Remedies Pt 1

Time to Get Prepared… Just In Case!

Making Your Own Herbal Remedies Part 1

God has provided us many remedies to meet our needs in nature. These can be purchased many places presently, but are also very simple to make on your own as well as being far less expensive most times. Gathering the herbs can be as simple as wandering in the fields or woods near your house or can be purchased bulk from retailers. You can store small amounts of your own remedies or large amounts. What you should do will depend on the time available to commit to the project, needs and storage capabilities.

Education

The first step is to gain information on what herbs to use for which conditions, how to use them, when to use them and more. There are many places to get that information online, in person and correspondence. It is vital to know what you are doing to avoid unintended consequences such as interactions of herbs or interactions with prescription medications. It is also vital to know what you are doing if you plan on wild-crafting your own herbs. One wrong choice could potentially be fatal, but good training will keep you safe. If you can, find a local herbalist to take you on an herb walk to show you in person what the safe and unsafe herbs look like. That is the best way to learn in my experience. Take a camera and get several shots of each plant. Write on a notepad what picture number goes with what plant and the information you are told about that plant. Following are links to courses, books on herbal remedies and plant identification, resources for purchasing herbs, DVDs to show the making of remedies and more.

Herbal Courses:

Shonda Parker’s Certified Family Herbalist Course
Mountain Rose Herbs Herbal Education Resource

Plant Identification Courses:

Alderleaf Wilderness College Medicinal Plants Course
The Science & Art of Herbalism Course
Ozark Tracker Society Edible & Medicinal Plant Series
Wilderness Survival Edible & Medicinal Plants
Wilderness Survival Poisonous Plants

Books on Herbal Remedies & Wild Plant Harvesting:

The Herbal Handbook: A User’s Guide to Medical Herbalism
The Herbal Home Remedy Book
Prescription for Herbal Healing: An Easy-to-use A-Z Reference
Edible Wild Plants: A North American Field Guide
Identifying and Harvesting Edible and Medicinal Plants in the Wild

Instructional DVD:

Herbal Remedies from your Garden
Herbal Preparations and Natural Remedies: Creating and Using a Home... Chest

How to find an Herbalist:

Find an Herbalist: American Herbalists Guild

Reliable Herbal Sources for Bulk Herbs and Supplies:
Mountain Rose Herbs

Starwest Botanicals

Source: Christine Kabush (AAM) on June 1, 2010 at 4:30pm

Cross-Posted: True Health Is True Wealth

McCain’s Dietary Supplement Bill: An Attempt to Implement Codex Alimentarius

A bill recently introduced to the U.S. Senate, the Dietary Supplement Safety Act of 2010 (S. 3002), by Senators John McCain and Byron Dorgan is possibly the most direct assault on natural health freedom we have seen for some time. If passed into law, this bill would require all dietary supplement manufacturers, distributors, and holders all the way down to the retail store level to be comprehensively registered. It would also allow for the arbitrary banning of nutritional supplements by the FDA and the introduction of deceitful reporting of adverse events related to them.

The legislation effectively gives the FDA carte blanche to do whatever it wishes in regards to natural supplements.

The cover for this legislation is that it is designed to prevent both intentional and unintentional steroid adulteration of dietary supplements. The trigger, according to McCain, was six NFL players who were accused of doping with supplements tainted with steroids. Even with this being the case, however, the FDA already has the authority to regulate synthetic anabolic steroids via the Anabolic Control Act of 2004 which permits them to do just that. Nevertheless, under the guise of the behavior of six NFL players, an entire market that has been proven not only very safe but very healthy will be essentially regulated out of business. (NHF)

The Dietary Supplement Safety Act of 2010 would require registration of any “business or operation engaged in manufacturing, packaging, holding, distributing, labeling, or licensing a dietary supplement for consumption in the United States,” definitions which could possibly include even retail stores that sell herbal and nutritional products. (DSSA p.2) Currently, under the Dietary Supplements and Non-Prescription Consumer Protection Act, small retailers are not required to register. This, however, will change with the passage of McCain-Dorgan’s bill. (NHF)

The switch from the current practices of Serious Adverse Event Reporting to that of simply Adverse Event Reporting is of concern as well. Existing law requires the reporting of serious adverse events related to the supplement in question to be reported for regulatory and recall purposes. The McCain-Dorgan bill, however, removes the language “Serious Adverse Event” and replaces it with the term “adverse event,” opening up the floodgates for the most ridiculous possible claims of adverse events such as bad taste or even dislike of packaging. This “report everything possible” stance is will vastly increase the numbers of complaints that will hence be used to add credence to the arguments for banning supplements in the future. Not only that, but more government bureaucracies will have to be created in order to organize and sort through all of the incoming “adverse event reports.” (NHF)

Yet the most frightening aspect of this bill is the immediate effects it would have on natural supplements. Currently, due to the Dietary Supplements Health and Education Act of 1994 (DSHEA), all supplements on the market prior to October 15, 1994 can lawfully be sold in the United States. However, the legislation being proposed completely reverses this and defines a “new dietary supplement” as one that “is not included on the list of ‘Accepted Dietary Ingredients’, to be prepared, published, and maintained by the Secretary” (DSSA p.5-6). This seemingly slight change in language actually removes the grandfathering in of supplements on the market prior to 1994. These new dietary supplements will also be considered “adulterated” unless “there is a history of use or other evidence of safety establishing that the dietary ingredient when used under the conditions recommended or suggested in the labeling of the dietary supplement….” (DSSA p.5) The registrants are then required to create and maintain a “scientifically reasonable substantiation file” which is to be made available for the Secretary of Health and Human Services to inspect at his/her whim. These products are to be registered at least 75 days prior to market. (NSF)

As quoted above, the bill also mandates that an “Accepted Dietary Ingredients” list should be created by the Secretary of HHS which will replace the current guidelines. Such a list effectively gives the FDA carte blanche to do whatever it wishes in regards to natural supplements. The FDA is given absolute authority to determine what supplements are allowed on the “Accepted Dietary Ingredients” list, thereby granting it the authority to ban any supplement without due process, scientific merit, or even a hearing simply by refusing to place it on the ADI list. (NSF) The FDA will also be able to remove supplements from market even after it has allowed it to be included on its’ list. As the bill states,

“If the Secretary finds there is a reasonable probability that a dietary supplement or a product marketed or sold as a dietary supplement would cause serious, adverse, health consequences or death, or is adulterated or misbranded, the Secretary shall issue a cease distribution and notification order requiring the person named in the order to immediately – cease distribution of such dietary supplement or a product marketed or sold as a dietary supplement; notify distributors, importers, retailers, and consumers of the order; and instruct those distributors, importers, retailers, and consumers to cease distributing, importing, selling, and using the dietary supplement.”(DSSA p.9)

The cost of the recall, of course, will be absorbed by the retailer. (DSSA p.11)

While the Dietary Supplement Safety Act of 2010 is an egregious attack on Americans’ freedom of choice, it is also a symptom of an even larger problem. The McCain-Dorgan bill is not just another silly attempt by corrupt politicians to demonstrate that they still have some value to their constituents, but an attempt to implement Codex Alimentarius at the national level and move the United States away from our Common Law heritage. The European Union has already passed similar legislation in the European Union Food Supplements Directive which has decimated open access to natural dietary supplements. Canada has passed laws to the same effect in recent weeks as well.

Brandon Turbeville
Infowars.com - February 24, 2010

Works Cited:

“Dietary Supplement Safety Act of 2010.” February 2, 2010. http://mccain.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=Files.View&FileStore_id=2fe2fa5d-636b-4705-97df-8318a24f718f

“Bullet Points on McCain’s Anti-Supplement Bill S.3002.” National Health Federation. http://www.thenhf.com/press_releases/pr_19_feb_2010.html

“McCain Anti-DSHEA Bill a Clear and Present Threat to Health Freedom.” http://www.healthfreedomusa.org/?p=4608

Codex Alimentarius

Having spent the past twelve months investigating Codex Alimentarius, I am deeply disturbed by the almost total lack of awareness (or even interest) with regard to the implications of this pernicious global Commission, particularly amongst those most affected by the excesses of this restrictive legislation. In the words of the National Health Federation[i], the aims and objectives of Codex Alimentarius are as follows: * Only low-potency, “me too” supplements available that will do nothing for your health. * All or most foods genetically-modified. * Beneficial supplements unavailable or sold by prescription only. For many people, this agenda is so outrageous, they cannot believe such goals are achievable; yet this may well be the reality as soon as 31st December 2009, if the Codex Alimentarius Commission continues to disregard input from those who offer a counter perspective to the combined forces of Big Farmer & Big Pharma.

And yes, this is for real… Never Heard of Codex… Well, That Is Exactly What They Want!! – Video

The Drug Story

Western Medicine - Forbidden Cures

Does anyone ever wonder why American medicine is so anti-holistic practices?? Think Rockefeller and progressives~

Tales of a Shaman's Apprentice: An Ethnobotanist Searches for New Medicines in the Amazon Rain Forest

America for Sale: Fighting the New World Order, Surviving a Global Depression, and Preserving USA Sovereignty

John McCain Proposes Natural Supplement Regulation Bill

The Mark Of The New World Order – RFID Chips are part of the provisions already passed in the Stimulus Bill that will kick in if ObamaCare passes.

Corporate Threats to our Food Supply

Slavery or Freedom

Agenda 21

Suzanne Somers says Patrick Swayze should not have used chemotherapy

Actress Suzanne Somers attends a Blackberry Loves Mavericks cocktail reception for 'Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire' at the Royal Ontario Museum during the Toronto International Film Festival on Sunday, Sept. 13, 2009 in Toronto. (AP)

Suzanne Somers thinks Patrick Swayze could have been alive today if he would have used alternative methods to treat his pancreatic cancer instead of chemotherapy.

The former "Three's Company" star, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1991 and rejected chemotherapy in favor of natural treatments, reportedly told Toronto-based columnist Shinan Govani that it was Swayze's chemotherapy treatments, not pancreatic cancer, that ended his life prematurely. Breakthrough: Eight Steps to Wellness by Suzanne Somers.

"They took this beautiful man and they basically put poison in him," she reportedly said. "Why couldn't they have built him up nutritionally and gotten rid of the toxins in his body? I hate to be this controversial. I'm a singer-dancer-comedienne. But we have an epidemic going on, and I have to say it."

Swayze died on Monday at age 57

Swayze Memoir: No to Painkillers, Yes to 'An Amazing Ride'

In a quest to remain mentally sharp, Patrick Swayze turned away painkillers while enduring rigorous chemotherapy treatments during much of his battle with pancreatic cancer, his soon-to-be-released memoir, 'The Time of My Life,' will reveal. That, along with the actor's reaction and stoic acceptance of his disease, are just some of topics found in the book, according to excerpts highlighted by NBC's 'Today' and the NY Daily News. 'Life,' out Sept. 29, was co-written with wife Lisa Niemi.
Swayze died Monday evening in Los Angeles. Funeral plans have not been set, however fans will stage a memorial this weekend in the small North Carolina town where the actor's biggest film, 'Dirty Dancing' was filmed. Excerpts from 'The Time of My Life,' after the jump.

Discovering the Cancer:
"I had been having some digestive trouble, mostly acid reflux and a kind of bloated feeling, for a few weeks ... I've had a sensitive stomach my whole life, so I hadn't thought much of it, but lately I just couldn't shake the constant discomfort ... My doctor told me my chances of surviving for more than a few months weren't high and I had no reason to doubt him."

Disbelief ...
"I had been excited about the upswing my life was on ... Now it all seemed like a cruel joke. I couldn't be dying -- I had too much to live for!"

... And Acceptance:
"I began thinking to myself, I've had more lifetimes than any 10 people put together, and it's been an amazing ride. So this is okay."

No Painkillers:
"I continued with chemotherapy all the way through the shoot [for his TV show, 'The Beast']. But I never took any painkillers since they dull not only your pain but also your sharpness."

Thanking the Love of His Life:
"How grateful I am that you chose to love me. I know that because of you, I've found my spirit. I saw the man I wanted to be. You are my woman, my lover, my mate and my lady. I loved you forever, I love you now and I will love you forever more

Publicist: Patrick Swayze Dies at 57

Sanoviv Medical Center

Posted: True Health Is True Wealth – Cross-Posted: Marion’s Place

Smear Campaign Aimed Against Anti-Aging Proponents

A groundbreaking paper has exposed for the first time the covert misdeeds and extreme abuse of academic and political power by the gerontological establishment.

For the past 14 years, establishment gerontologists have sought to persecute anti-aging physicians, anti-aging health practitioners, and the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine itself, simply because they defy the prevailing model of disease-based, drug-oriented medicine.

The paper details a complete disregard for truth, academic integrity, and scientific professionalism by some of the most prestigious doctors in the gerontological establishment. They have waged a multi-million-dollar campaign to influence media and exert deliberate control of public information, using selective funding of journalists to deliberately misrepresent the anti-aging movement.

Dr. Imre Zs.-Nagy, a part of the gerontology movement for four decades, and founder and editor-in-chief of the Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics, has courageously stepped up to speak the truth. At great professional risk, he has come forth to blow the whistle on 14 years of censorship and repression of the science of anti-aging medicine.

On April 25 I gave a vitamin D presentation at the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (A4M) Conference in Orlando, and while I was there I became aware of this story.
For decades, anti-aging physicians have been unfairly persecuted, their research smeared and called quackery. As Dr. Imre Zs.-Nagy, founder and editor-in-chief of the Archives of Gerontology and Geriatrics, said:

“Quite to my astonishment and shock, I have been amazed to observe in many occasions, the complete disregard by certain individuals bearing some of the most prestigious affiliations in the gerontological establishment, for truth, academic integrity, and scientific professionalism.

Instead, they have waged a wanton effort to sabotage and retard a global movement of clinicians, practicing physicians on the front lines who have embraced that aging is not inevitable and is, indeed, preventable.”

Dr. Zs.-Nagy, MD has put himself at great professional risk to finally blow the whistle on 14 years of censorship and repression of the science of anti-aging medicine, and advanced preventive medicine, by the gerontological establishment.
He continues:

“Rather than investing their time, energies, and financial resources into positive endeavors such as research efforts aimed at elucidating tangible near-term applications for human aging intervention, the gerontological elite has instead sought to obfuscate the facts of the anti-aging medical movement. 

I submit that the reason for this is nothing less than an abject fear by the gerontological elite to avert their loss of control, power, prestige, and position in the multi-billion dollar industry of gerontological medicine.”

This negative spin has been going on for years, and you’ve probably come across such articles in magazines, newspapers or on the news. The New York Times, for instance, even ran a biased story a few years ago that attacked the entire anti-aging field -- which is usually one based on fine-tuning your diet, optimizing exercise and using targeted supplements -- and made it seem like a dangerous, money-hungry venture.

In reality, the NY Times piece was littered with important omissions and biased statements that ended up overwhelmingly supporting the conventional medical model and casting doubt on everything prevention-based.

Dr. Ronald Klatz, MD, DO, a friend and former classmate of mine considered by many to be one of the "Gurus of Anti-Aging Medicine," and also president of A4M, had this to say:

"A decade-long campaign waged by the gerontological elite has severely restricted the freedoms of physicians to administer life enhancing, and potentially life saving, therapeutics … The effect of this calculated campaign has held back the advancement of clinical anti-aging … research, leading to unnecessary morbidity, and, likely -- mortality, for millions of people worldwide.”

Cutting-Edge Anti-Aging Research You Should Know About

Dr. de Grey believes it is typically neglect, not intentional malice, that results in your life ending prematurely.
If this sounds intriguing to you, you might want to set aside 30 minutes to watch this video interview with Biogerontologist Aubrey de Grey, who is one of the leading anti-aging researchers in the world. In the interview he shares his fascinating insights into what the world’s top scientists and anti-aging pioneers are thinking on this subject.

As radical as it sounds, Dr. de Grey believes immortality can be achievable, or at the very least he believes humans could live for several centuries, if only the aging process was approached as an “engineering problem”.

According to de Grey, the following seven causes are responsible for physical aging, and are the basis of his “engineering approach” solutions:

1. Cell loss
2. Death-resistant cells (that overstay their welcome)
3. Nuclear DNA mutations
4. Mitochondrial DNA mutations
5. Intracellular junk
6. Extracellular junk
7. Extracellular crosslinks (which link together molecules that should be kept separated)

Essentially, de Grey’s hypothesis states that if you can keep these seven deadly cell-damaging processes below the threshold of pathology -- the state where processes start to break cells down until your body dies from the cumulative damage -- you will be able to extend your life, perhaps indefinitely.

From a strictly biological standpoint, the maximum lifespan of human beings seems to be set at around 120 years. However, I do believe it might be possible to extend your lifespan beyond this with the regenerative technologies that Dr. de Grey discusses.

What Can You do, Practically, to Slow Down Aging?

Researchers like de Grey are focusing on technologies that actually reverse the damage that aging causes, and he is confident that it will be possible one day to not only reverse the internal tissue damage but the physical external appearance as well (which he believes will be much easier to do).

Adult (not embryonic) stem cell technology is one of these approaches. 

Also, not to be overlooked, are the following mainstays of any anti-aging program, which include:

1. Keeping your insulin levels low -- Elevated insulin levels are one of your key physical influences that contribute to rapid aging, and there is no question that optimizing your insulin levels is an absolute necessity if you want to slow down your aging process.
2. Eating a healthy diet based on your nutritional type -- My nutrition plan, based on natural whole foods, is your first step toward increasing your chances of living a longer, healthier life.
3. Getting plenty of exercise -- Studies repeatedly show that regular, moderate-to-vigorous exercise can help prevent or delay your onset of hypertension, obesity, heart disease, osteoporosis, and numerous others diseases associated with aging.
4. Maintaining emotional wellness -- Research suggests that your mind determines how quickly and dramatically you age.

You can also get up to speed on how emerging science could someday transform elderly people to better versions of their former young selves -- and learn what other simple steps you can take now to help ensure you will be alive to take advantage of tomorrow’s age-reversing medical miracles -- by visiting the Web site www.MaxLife.org.

Source:  Dr. Mercola

Related Resources:

• Suzanne Somers on the Schwarzbein Principle - Bioidentical Hormone
• Waltz Into Healthy Old Age
• Protect Yourself From Killer Hospitals - Part 4
• The Drug Story
• Western Medicine - Forbidden Cures
• Sanoviv Medical Center
  
• Big Red Juice - GoChi & Himalayan Goji Juice 
  
• Stop Big Pharmaceutical Companies - Attempted Ban of Acai

Ease the Pain

Have over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, become your top allies in tackling chronic or recurring pain? If so, you might want to start thinking outside the bottle. “In certain short-term cases, such as a simple headache, OTC's can be very helpful,” says James Dillard, MD, integrative-medicine practitioner and author of The Chronic Pain Solution (Bantam, 2003). But long-term use of OTCs doesn't resolve the root cause of your pain.

In addition to addressing underlying issues such as inflammation, a holistic approach can ease the burden on your liver and protect you from pain-medication side effects. “By using nondrug strategies for pain relief — everything from salves to stretching — you're limiting your potential for adverse reactions,” says Dillard.

whether you're seeking to soothe a constant backache or banish your migraines, reducing inflammation and stress by tending to your diet, doing certain types of exercise, and using pain-relieving alternative therapies, as well as taking anti-inflammatory herbs and supplements, can play a critical role in alleviating your pain for good.

AN INFLAMMATION-REDUCING DIET

Focus on fatty acids. Balancing your intake of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids is key, says Dillard. The omega-6s found in red meat, margarine, and hydrogenated oils are woefully abundant in the typical American diet; these actually promote inflammation and increase pain. On the other hand, the omega-3s found in wild salmon and other fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts increase your body's ability to inhibit inflammation. If those omega-3 sources aren't a part of your diet, take a fish-oil or flaxseed supplement, suggests Mark Stengler, ND, coauthor of Prescription for Drug Alternatives (Wiley, 2008).

Veg out. “A Mediterranean-style eating plan with high levels of carotenoids from deeply colored fruits and vegetables should be helpful for people with chronic pain,” says Stengler. These powerful antioxidants, abundant in sweet potatoes, carrots, and kale, were linked to low levels of inflammation in a 2007 study published in Clinical Chemistry. Getting plenty of green leafy vegetables like spinach, broccoli, and chard may help prevent pain by delivering B-complex vitamins (important for keeping nerves healthy) and the mineral magnesium (essential for relaxing smooth muscles).

Help yourself to whole grains. Choosing complex carbs (found in whole grains, fruits and vegetables, and legumes) over simple varieties (such as those in refined sugar, white rice, or white bread) can also help thwart inflammation, adds Stengler. This may reduce inflammation in part by keeping blood sugar in check, suggests a 2007 research review from the Harvard School of Public Health.

Get pH balanced. Certain foods (such as wheat, artificial sweeteners, and some dairy products) increase acidity in the body, which could promote pain, according to Stengler. “Tissues are healthiest in a mild alkaline state,” he says. “Too much acidity can overload the lymphatic system, impede the body's natural detoxification process, and create inflammation.” At each meal, Stengler recommends filling half your plate with vegetables, a quarter with protein, and the last quarter with whole grains. “Fruits and vegetables are alkalizing, while most grains and proteins are acid-forming,” he explains. The least acid-forming grains are quinoa, buckwheat groats, and spelt.

MIND-BODY RECOMMENDATIONS

Sleep. “Stress hormones can wreak havoc on the nervous system and ramp up pain,” says Dillard. The best thing you can do to reduce stress? Get enough z's. A 2007 study showed that sleep disturbances could lead to a rise in “spontaneous pain,” such as headaches, stomachaches, and back pain. “Deep, restful sleep restores the nervous system and repairs cells,” says Suzanne Tang, ND, Lac, a naturopathic doctor in Costa Mesa, California. Aim for eight hours each night.

Wake up tai chi. Mind-body movement practices such as tai chi can break the stress-pain cycle by calming the nervous system, says Tang. In a recent study published in Pain Medicine, practicing tai chi particularly benefited those with osteoarthritis and lower back pain. The ancient Chinese martial art — which involves slowly moving through a series of gentle postures — may also bring pain relief to people coping with rheumatoid arthritis, suggests a study conducted at Tufts-New England Medical Center last year. For optimal technique, Dillard advises initially opting for a class rather than turning to a DVD for instruction.

Break a sweat. Exercise promotes the release of endorphins, chemicals that interact with brain receptors to change your perception of pain, and helps your body produce GABA, a pain-inhibiting neurotransmitter. Working out regularly also boosts mood, which can offset emotional effects of chronic pain. In one recent report from Arthritis Care and Research, scientists found that exercising just twice a week for eight weeks led to significant improvements for arthritis patients. If pain prevents you from working out, Dillard suggests swimming, cycling, and yoga, which place minimal stress on the joints.

Sources: James Dillard, MD; Suzanne Tang, ND, Lac.

Recommended Natural Remedies and Centers

BOSWELLIA

HOW IT WORKS: An Ayurvedic remedy traditionally used to treat degenerative disorders, boswellia acts as an analgesic, or natural pain reliever. A 2008 study showed positive results for pain associated with osteoarthritis of the knee.

DOSE: 250 mg three times per day between meals

BROMELAIN

HOW IT WORKS: This natural enzyme found in pineapple alleviates arthritis, headaches, and musculoskeletal tension by decreasing inflammation. Also stimulates healing in muscles and connective tissues.
DOSE: 250 mg three times per day between meals

CURCUMIN

HOW IT WORKS: Derived from the curry spice turmeric and used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat inflammatory disorders, research shows that curcumin suppresses cytokines, naturally occurring pro-inflammatory proteins.
DOSE: 250 mg three times per day between meals

WHITE WILLOW BARK

HOW IT WORKS:Contains salicin, a substance chemically similar to aspirin. Shown to decrease levels of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins. In research, it relieved pain caused by degeneration of knee and hip cartilage as effectively as conventional medicine. Also recommended for back pain. 

DOSE: 240 mg per day

GO CHI - THE BIG RED JUICE  -  Developed by Dr. Earl Mindell for FreeLife

HOW IT WORKS: Promotes overall well-being br enabling your own body to heal and rejuvenate itself at a cellular level.          

DOSE:  1 to 4 ounces daily

SANOVIV - Hollistic Health Facility  -  Founded by Dr. Myron Wentz