Nutrition Month

Monday, September 24, 2012

Breast Thermography awareness



According to the National Cancer Institute, there were 192,370 new cases of breast cancer in females and 1,910 cases in males in 2009. That year, 40,170 women and 440 men died from breast cancer. The World Health Organization reports that breast cancer accounts for 16 percent of the cancer deaths of women globally.


Breast thermography is a state-of-the-art screening procedure that captures images of the breast to aid in the early detection of breast irregularities. According to the American Journal of Surgery, it “is a valuable adjunct to mammography and ultrasound, especially in women with dense breast parenchyma.”


It is based on the principle of temperature variation, the slight increase in heat that is almost always generated when chemical and blood vessel activity occurs in pre-cancerous tissue and the areas surrounding a developing breast cancer. Images are captured with ultra-sensitive infra-red cameras and analyzed with sophisticated computers that seek to detect the minute increases in surface temperature and vascular changes that may be occurring within the breast. It is comfortable and safe, using neither radiation nor compression.


Breast thermographic technology has been researched for over 30 years. It has, however, been gaining national prominence and more widespread use only recently, due to the publicity received by radiation-based screening technologies in the guidelines issued by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the Federal Government. It should not, however, be considered an alternative to mammography. Rather, it should be regarded as an adjunct to mammography, and should be offered in every woman’s regular breast health regimen. Women of all ages should employ a combination of techniques, including breast self-examination, physical examinations of the breast by a physician, thermography, mammography, HALO breast pap and sometimes ultrasound or MRI examinations, where indicated. Studies have shown that the earliest detection generally occurs when several test techniques are used in combination. The inclusion of thermography can often point out the need for more intensive examination to make a complete diagnosis.


There are more than 800 peer-reviewed breast thermography studies, in which over 250,000 women participated. Many of these studies involved very large groups of patients (from 37,000 to over 100,000) and some have followed patients for as much as 12 years. Among other conclusions, these studies found that when thermography has been added to a woman’s regular breast health checkups, a 61% increased survival rate was realized, and when used as part of a multi-modal approach (clinical examination, mammography and thermography) 95% of early stage cancers will be detected. Since 23% of all breast cancers occur in women under the age of 49, regular breast health checkups should be undertaken by women of all ages, even those in their 20’s. It is well known that early detection is the best defense against breast cancer and that, if treated in the earliest stages, a 95% cure rate is achieved.


For optimal breast health, mammography alone may not be enough. There are additional tools for breast health screening: thermography and Halo breast pap. Halo breast pap tests for the presence of abnormal fluid in the breast ducts. The test consists of five minutes on a modified breast pump to attempt to obtain fluid. If there is any fluid present, it will be sent for further testing. The test can detect early cellular changes within the breast ducts, the area where more than 90% of breast cancer begins. Each of these tests can be provided to women of any age who are not pregnant or breast-feeding.


What to do if you are at increased risk?

Aromatase is an enzyme produced in the body that is needed for the final step in the production of estrogen as part of the hormonal cascade during which hormones are made from other hormones in a series of conversions. This enzyme converts androgen to estrogen. Aromatase is expressed at a higher level in breast cancer tissue than in benign tissue. Estrogen biosynthesis can be suppressed by the prevention of aromatase expression in breast tumors or by the inhibition of aromatase activity. Without the aromatase enzyme, excessive production of estrogen stalls. This process is what makes aromatase inhibitors effective against hormone-sensitive tumor growth.

High estrogen levels are a well-known risk for breast cancer. Many breast cancers depend on estrogen to grow. In fact, seventy per cent of diagnosed breast cancers express Estrogen Receptor alpha (ER{alpha}) and are, therefore, likely to be hormone-responsive. Apart from commercial and synthetic aromatase inhibitors, where can you find natural sources of such inhibitors?

Natural aromatase inhibitors include flavonoids, flavones, flavanones, isoflavones, resveratrol, oleuropein and linoleic acid. These are healing foods for breast cancer and other hormone-sensitive diseases.
Quercetin, Resveratrol, and Chrysin are found in PriVita, a natural aromatase inhibitor for breast health.
If you do have risk factors for breast cancer, consider a natural supplement.

    Friday, September 21, 2012

    Seven Ideas for reducing genital herpes, cold sores, shingles outbreaks

    Herpes viruses lie dormant in body tissues and are expressed periodically, probably as a result of stress, diet, and other factors.

     A national survey of the US population conducted between 1988 and 1994 found that more than one in five people over 12 had blood tests that showed evidence for infection with herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV 2), the virus typically responsible for genital herpes. This represents a 30 percent increase from 1976-1980. There is also evidence that genital infections with HSV 1, which normally causes cold sores around the mouth, are on the rise.

     Genital herpes recurrence

    Recurrent episodes of genital herpes are milder and shorter in duration than initial outbreaks. However the frequency of recurrences is greater than had been thought in the past, because of asymptomatic shedding. Use of condoms as prevention Condoms are only partly protective because HSV-2 can spread by skin-to-skin contact, which could occur in areas not covered by the condom. Even when people with genital herpes don't have a visible outbreak of infection, they may be able to infect others with the virus. Archives of Internal Medicine, July 13, 2009.

     What are natural things one can do?

     While there is currently no cure, or immunization, to defeat herpes, there are natural measures that can ease, and possibly prevent, future outbreaks. There are herbal treatments for herpes that boost the three lines of defense against attacks by herpes. Capsuled mixtures, tinctures and teas intended for internal intake, work to enforce the immune system – the first layer of defense. This will help the body keep the outbreak down and minimize symptoms. The second layer of defense is responsible for countering stress. Emotional stress may impact immune system very badly and thus make your body more vulnerable to virus attacks. There are supportive herbs that relieve stress and therefore enable the immune system to combat the virus. Thirdly, there are herbal remedies that are used externally on affected areas and help reduce the discomfort.

     Genital Herpes in women

     For women with genital herpes, taking oral contraceptives can double the likelihood of actively shedding the virus and so passing on the infection. The risk is also roughly doubled when women have bacterial vaginosis -- vaginal infection characterized by heavy discharge -- or when the vagina is colonized by group B strep.


     1. Octocleanse

     Octocleanse is an herbal yeast and parasite detox formula.

    PARASITE FORMULA - Activity: Powerful anthelmintic and vermifuge formula that purifies the body of negative microorganisms.
    Ingredients: GARLIC, FENNEL, PUMPKIN SEED, CLOVES, WORMWOOD, OLIVE LEAF, BLACK WALNUT, enzymes.
    Cascara Sagrada--- extracts of Cascara have been found to be antiviral against herpes simplez virus 2 and vaccinia virus in cell culture.
    Cloves---Clove oil has antiviral activity against herpes.
    Octocleanse is a gentle laxative formula.

     2. Rhodigandha

     If stress triggers your attacks, adaptogens that help with stress may help. Rhodiola and Ashwagandha are powerful adaptogens. Pomegranate- blocking herpes simplex virus replication and adsorption, enhancing immune function Bilberry---Extracts of Bilberry have been found to be antiviral in cell culture for herpes simplex virus 2, influenza, and vacinia viruses.
     Rhodigandha (50 capsules per bottle)

     3. Lysine

     Lysine is a natural amino acid, and it is believed to ease herpes symptoms. You can increase the intake of lysine by adding more foods that contain it, to your daily ratio: vegetables, beans, chicken, fish and milk. It is also available as a food supplement. Vitamin C and B-complex can also be helpful in combating herpes symptoms. It is advisable for patients to cut down on Agrinine-rich foods, such as wheat, oats, nuts and chocolate. Arginine is an amino acid too, but it often has the opposite effect. It is also recommended to reduce the intake of white sugar and flour. Shingles is another form of herpes virus - herpes zoster. This is the same virus that causes chicken pox. It often appears on the abdomen, but can occur anywhere on the body. Like other herpes viruses, outbreaks may be lessened by using lysine. Lysine 1000 mg

     4. Sexibalm (patent pending)

     Sores can be treated with salves and oils (like Sexibalm) to reduce the itching and tingling and intensify the healing process, you can use aloe vera (contained in Sexibalm) Tea tree oil has been found to be very effective against the herpes virus, both type one and type two. Neem Seed Oil has been used medicinally in India since at least 2,000 BC. This oil was referred to in ancient Indian texts as the curer of all ailments. Since Neem was utilized so extensively, Neem trees were affectionately referred to as the village pharmacy, and even today, Neem is a key ingredient in Ayurvedic and Unani medicine. In particular, Neem Seed Oil is reknowned for its anti-viral and anti-fungal properties. Green tea is noted for it’s anti-viral and anti-bacterial capabilities (Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther. 2007 Jun;5(3):497-506.). Studies have been conducted regarding Green Tea’s effect on Herpes, HPV, Hepatitis B, and even HIV. Sexibalm is coconut oil and shea butter infused with essential oils (including tea tree oil and neem oil). It also contains Green Tea. 

     5. Privita

     Privita  is an herbal estrogen blocker and aromatase inhibitor formula designed to balance hormone levels in men and women. Privita  contains Astralagus, so if you have an estrogen dominant condition (like ovarian cysts, fibroids, fibrocystic breasts, heavy bleeding or prostate enlargement), you may find this formula helpful In a test tube study, astragalus was found to have anti herpes simplex virus activity. Pomegranate- blocking herpes simplex virus replication and adsorption, enhancing immune function Resveratrol, a phytoalexin, was found to inhibit herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2) replication in a dose-dependent, reversible manner. Green tea is noted for it’s anti-viral and anti-bacterial capabilities (Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther. 2007 Jun;5(3):497-506.). Studies have been conducted regarding Green Tea’s effect on Herpes, HPV, Hepatitis B, and even HIV.

     6. Maqui/Resveratrol/Acai Ultimate

     This formula is an antioxidant formula that has been independently tested by Brunswick labs. It has herbal COX-2 activity and modulates inflammation. Resveratrol, a phytoalexin, was found to inhibit herpes simplex virus types 1 and 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2) replication in a dose-dependent, reversible manner. Green tea is noted for it’s anti-viral and anti-bacterial capabilities (Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther. 2007 Jun;5(3):497-506.). Studies have been conducted regarding Green Tea’s effect on Herpes, HPV, Hepatitis B, and even HIV. It contains Vitamins A,C,E and Selenium also. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is important in maintaining immune status. Vitamin C can strengthen white blood cell function and boost interferon levels. It is a free radical scavenger (Li W et al 2001) and protects tissues from oxidative stress and enhances the actions of vitamin E (De Souza MC et al 2000) Selenium (an antioxidant with immune system–boosting properties) may help suppress the reactivation of herpesviruses by increasing immunity. Acai/Resveratrol/Macqui

     7. Herbalith

     Herbalith is an herbal relaxation formula that contains Lithium.
    Lithium, which is used for Bi-polar disorder, in small doses, is quite toxic to herpes simplex, so much so it inhibits the virus from replicating. Valerian herb and Passion Flower herb are great for calming nerves for those with a stress trigger.


    These above described products can be used alone or in combination.



     FDA Disclaimer

    The statements made on this website have not been evaluated by the FDA. Products are not intended to diagnose, cure or prevent any disease. If a condition persists, please contact your physician. The information provided by myself or this website is not a substitute for a face-to-face consultation with your physician, and should not be construed as individual medical advice. The testimonials on this website are individual cases and do not guarantee that you will get the same results.

    Sunday, September 16, 2012

    Fibroadenoma of Breast natural help

    A fibroid adenoma, or fibroadenoma, is a benign (non-cancerous) lump in the breast. Unlike cancerous tumors, a fibroadenoma usually feels quite firm, round, smooth-edged and moveable---like the tip of a pencil eraser--and is most common in premenopausal women. These lumps are rarely anything to worry about and not often painful, but can be uncomfortable, especially in the week leading up to menstruation when estrogen levels rise.

    Despite their benignity, fibroadenomas can cause physical deformity due to large size and may produce discomfort or emotional distress in affected individuals. The traditional management options available to women diagnosed with a fibroadenoma include observation or surgical excision.

    Too much estrogen is often the culprit in many diseases and conditions, including fibroadenoma. Rather than go through the trauma of surgery, you can try to reduce the fibroadenoma through natural means.

    Hormonal changes can cause fibroadenomas to grow in size. Hormonal changes occur at the onset of puberty and during menstrual cycles, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. The decline in hormone production during perimenopause and menopause can cause fibroadenomas to shrink unless you use hormone medications.

    1. Increase the fiber in your diet, especially from vegetables, as fiber helps flush estrogen from the body. The more excess estrogen you have, the more likely you are to suffer from hormonal conditions, such as fibroadenoma or even cancer.

    2. Boost your progesterone. Because of poor diet and exposure to toxins, many women are estrogen dominant, which means that their body produces too much estrogen and/or too little progesterone.

    3. Take herbs that stop excess conversion of other hormones to estrogen. Privita is an estrogen blocker/aromatase inhibitor formula. It has been independently tested for ORAC levels.

    It contains Pomegranate, Resveratrol, Astralagus, Green Tea, Chrysin and Chamomile and many more beneficial herbs. Start with two capsules daily. Add an extra capsule per day until your breast tenderness improves or you notice shrinkage of your lump. Do not exceed six capsules daily.

    Chrysin: Found in the herb Passiflora incarnata, the flavone chrysin is a potent natural aromatase inhibitor. In a study published 1993 chrysin and 10 other flavonoids were compared to an aromatase-inhibiting drug (aminoglutethimide). Chrysin was the most potent aromatase-inhibitor, and was shown to be similar in potency and effectiveness to the aromatase-inhibiting drug. The scientists conducting the study concluded by stating that the aromatase-inhibiting effects of certain flavonoids may contribute to the cancer preventive effects of plant-based diets.

    Apigenin: Found in most species of Chamomile, the flavone apigenin is also a safe and effective aromatase inhibitor, with an inhibitory effectiveness about equal to chrysin.

    FDA Disclaimer The statements and products shown on this website have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Those seeking treatment for a specific disease should consult a qualified integrative physician prior to using our products if possible.