Healthline Article Purpose of review This article recounts the history of the diet-heart hypothesis from the late 1950s to the current day, with revelations that have never been published in the scientific literature. Insights include the role of authorities in launching the diet hypothesis, including a potential conflict of interest for the American Heart Association; several crucial details regarding studies considered influential to the hypothesis; irregularities in the scientific reviews on saturated fats, for both the 2015 and 2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans; and possible conflicts of interest on the relevant subcommittee reviewing saturated fats for the 2020 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee. Information obtained via the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) on emails from the 2015 process is published here for the first time. These findings are highly relevant to the 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines process, now underway, which has plans for a new review on saturated fats. Recent findings Recent findings include shortcomings in the scientific review processes on saturated fats, for both the current 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the previous edition (2015–2020). Revelations include the fact the 2015 Advisory Committee acknowledged, in an e-mail, the lack of scientific justification for any specific numeric cap on these fats. Other, previously unpublished findings include significant potential financial conflicts on the relevant 2020 guidelines subcommittee, including the participation of plant-based advocates, an expert who promotes a plant-based diet for religious reasons, experts who had received extensive funding from industries, such as tree nuts and soy, whose products benefit from continued policy recommendations favoring polyunsaturated fats, and one expert who had spent more than 50 years of her career dedicated to ‘proving’ the diet-heart hypothesis. Summary The idea that saturated fats cause heart disease, called the diet-heart hypothesis, was introduced in the 1950s, based on weak, associational evidence. Subsequent clinical trials attempting to substantiate this hypothesis could never establish a causal link. However, these clinical trial data were largely ignored for decades, until journalists brought them to light about a decade ago. Subsequent re-examinations of this evidence by nutrition experts have now been published in >20 review papers, which have largely concluded that saturated fats do not affect cardiovascular disease, cardiovascular mortality, or total mortality. The current challenge is for this new consensus on saturated fats to be recognized by policymakers, who, in the United States, have shown marked resistance to the introduction of the new evidence. In the case of the 2020 Dietary Guidelines, experts have been found even to deny their evidence. The global re-evaluation of saturated fats that has occurred over the past decade implies that caps on these fats are not warranted and should no longer be part of national dietary guidelines. Conflicts of interest and longstanding biases stand in the way of updating dietary policy to reflect the current evidence. Keywords:  dietary guidelines, food policy, polyunsaturated fats, saturated fats INTRODUCTION The concept that saturated fat causes cardiovascular disease by raising serum cholesterol is called the ‘diet-heart hypothesis’, a highly influential idea that has been a lynchpin of nutrition policy for some 60 years. This hypothesis remains today a foundation of public health policy, with nearly all dietary guidelines worldwide recommending a cap on saturated fat consumption as a primary measure of protection against heart disease. Over the past 12 years, however, there has been a major shift in scholarly understanding of these fats, with now >20 review papers, by independent teams of scientists, on the whole concluding that saturated fats do not affect major cardiovascular outcomes, including heart attacks, strokes or cardiovascular mortality, or total mortality. National dietary guidelines have not recognized this new thinking on saturated fats, however, and continue to promote policies based on outdated or insufficient evidence.  KEY POINTS HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE ON DIETARY SATURATED FAT The diet-heart hypothesis was first proposed in the 1950s by Ancel Keys, a physiologist at the University of Minnesota with an interest in nutrition. Keys based his idea on a handful of small feeding experiments conducted on humans together with some animal data suggesting that high blood cholesterol caused fatty deposits of the type thought to clog arteries and cause heart attacks. Keys had further observed, on travels through post-War Europe, that less wealthy populations in Sardinia, Naples, and Spain, appeared to suffer lower rates of heat attacks while consuming diets low in saturated fat-rich foods, such as meat and dairy. Keys postulated that saturated fat and cholesterol caused heart disease – his diet-heart hypothesis – whose claims he asserted in no fewer than 20 papers in 1957 and 1958. Keys has been widely described by his colleagues as having a highly persuasive, even aggressive, personality, and these attributes may have in part allowed him to ensure that his idea edged out competing hypotheses to become the dominant paradigm explaining cardiovascular disease for the next 70 years. One authority whom Keys successfully won over was Paul Dudley White, an influential cardiologist and the personal doctor for President Dwight D. Eisenhower. When Eisenhower suffered the first of several heart attacks, in September 1955, Keys’ ideas were elevated by White into the national spotlight. With the President hospitalized, the nation became laser-focused on the question of what caused heart disease, a relatively new and terrifying condition that had been rare in the early 1900s yet had risen by the 1950s to become the country's leading cause of death. White made it clear that diet was to blame. Under his guidance, Eisenhower undertook a new regimen, low in cholesterol and saturated fats. As charted in news headlines across the nation, Eisenhower shunned butter for polyunsaturated margarine and ate melba toast for breakfast. The second authority that came to adopt the diet-heart hypothesis was ultimately more enduring in its influence. This was the American Heart Association (AHA), the nation's largest nonprofit organization and long a respected leader in the field of heart disease. White had been an AHA founder, and Eisenhower hosted fundraisers for the group in the White House. Throughout the 1950s, the AHA had resisted giving advice on heart disease prevention, citing a lack of evidence, yet in 1960, Keys was appointed to the group's nutrition committee, and one year later, although no greater evidence could be cited, he had convinced his colleagues to recommend his idea as official AHA policy. Thus, from 1961 on, the AHA recommended that all men (and subsequently women) decrease their consumption of saturated fat, replacing these fats whenever possible with polyunsaturated vegetable oils, as the most promising measure of protection against heart disease. The 1961 AHA advice to limit saturated fat is arguably the single most influential nutrition policy ever published, as it came to be adopted first by the U.S. government, as official policy for all Americans, in 1980, and then by governments around the world as well as the World Health Organization. It is worth noting that the AHA had a significant conflict of interest, since in 1948, it had received $1.7 million, or about $20 million in today's dollars, from Procter & Gamble (P&G), the makers of Crisco oil. This donation was transformative for the AHA, propelling what was a small group into a national organization; the P&G funds were the ‘bang of big bucks’ that ‘launched’ the group, according to the organization's official history. Vegetable oils such as Crisco have reaped the benefits of this recommendation ever since, as Americans increased their consumption of these oils by nearly 90% from 1970 to 2014. THE SEVEN COUNTRIES STUDY The Seven Countries Study (SCS), led by Keys, was for many decades considered the bedrock data for the diet-heart hypothesis. Launched in 1957, the study was larger and more ambitious than any U.S. nutrition study to date. By 2004, according to one estimate, SCS had already been cited more than one million times. The SCS followed some 12 770 men in 16 locations within seven countries, including Italy, Greece, Yugoslavia, Finland, the Netherlands, the United States, and Japan. Keys, due to his worldwide travels, knew that choosing these countries was likely to confirm his hypothesis. He did not include, for instance, places like Germany, Switzerland, and France, where people ate a great deal of saturated fat yet experienced rates of heart disease similarly low to those included in the SCS. Keys’ selection of nations has given rise to the critique that he ‘cherry-picked’ countries to ‘prove’ his hypothesis. While defenders of the SCS have attempted to dismiss this allegation], it remains true that Keys used a non-random approach for the selection of countries in SCS, allowing for the introduction of bias. In 1975, when Keys published his results in a special issue of an AHA journal, he found as he had hoped: a strong correlation between the consumption of saturated fat and deaths from heart disease. The SCS was a groundbreaking study in its scope: one of its accomplishments was simply to demonstrate that people living in different nations really did suffer vastly different rates of heart attacks and that therefore the disease could potentially be prevented. Subsequent analyses of the SCS have found numerous shortcomings in the data, however. For instance, Keys sampled dietary data from only 3.9% of the men, which is fewer than 500 total participants, or about 30 per location. Further, he used unvalidated and non-standardized methods of dietary evaluation that differed across groups. On Crete, one of the dietary samples was taken during the period of Lent, which was strictly observed under the Greek Orthodox church and would have banned ‘all animal foods. Saturated fats were therefore very likely undercounted in this population, yet Keys downplayed this issue in his report and concluded that the excellent health of the Cretans could be credited to their low consumption of these fats. The failure to adjust for the Lent data was a ‘remarkable and troublesome omission,’ wrote researchers in  Public Health Nutrition  in 2005, yet this analysis took place long after the diet-heart hypothesis had become solidified as public policy. In 1989, a re-analysis of the SCS data by some of the original study researchers found that coronary mortality best correlated not with saturated fats, as originally reported, but with ‘sweets,’ defined as sugar products and pastries. Possibly the correlation would have been even stronger if the ‘sweets’ category had included chocolate, ice cream, and soft drinks, but researchers said data on these items were too difficult to combine. Ultimately, the principal limitation of the SCS data was that they could only show an association, not a cause-and-effect relationship. The results of the SCS have never been independently analyzed, and most subsequent studies using similar approaches have failed to confirm its conclusions, as described below. STUDIES ON SATURATED FATS Governments around the world, including the United States, Norway, Finland, and Australia, among other countries, recognized the need for more rigorous, clinical trial data that could establish a causal relationship between saturated fat and heart disease. Large, randomized, controlled clinical trials (RCTs) were undertaken in the 1960s and 1970s, in which saturated fats were replaced by polyunsaturated fats from vegetable oils. Altogether, these ‘core’ trials tested the diet-heart hypothesis on about 67,000 people and were especially important, because they assessed long-term clinical outcomes, that is, ‘hard endpoints,’ such as heart attacks and death. These outcomes are considered more reliable for making public health policy compared to studies that use ‘intermediary endpoints,’ such as cholesterol or inflammatory measures, whose value for predicting cardiovascular events is disputed. These trials provided surprisingly little support for the diet-heart hypothesis. Dramatic reductions in the consumption of saturated fats had successfully lowered the participants’ cholesterol, by an average of 29 mg/dl, ‘indicating a high level of compliance’ among subjects, according to one analysis, yet the expected reductions in either cardiovascular or total mortality were not observed in most trials. In other words, although diet could successfully lower blood cholesterol, this reduction did not appear to translate into long-term cardiovascular gains. By the time these results emerged, however, Keys’ hypothesis had already gained widespread acceptance among his colleagues, including, importantly, leadership at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). By the late 1960s, a bias in favor of the diet-heart hypothesis was strong enough that researchers with contrary results found themselves unable or unwilling to publish their results. For instance, the largest test of the diet-heart hypothesis, the Minnesota Coronary Survey, involving 9057 men and women over 4.5 years, tested a diet of 18% saturated fat against controls eating 9%, yet did not find any reduction in cardiovascular events, cardiovascular deaths, or total mortality. Although the study had been funded by the NIH, the results were not published for 16 years, after the principal investigator, Ivan Frantz, had retired. Frantz is reported to have said that there was nothing wrong with the study; ‘We were just disappointed in the way it came out’. Frantz's decision not to publish his results on time resulted in these contradictory data not being considered for another 40 years. Other results that went unpublished were from one of the most famous heart disease investigations ever undertaken, the Framingham Heart Study, begun in 1948. Vanderbilt University professor George Mann led a dietary investigation, collecting detailed food-consumption data from 1049 subjects. When he calculated the results in 1960, it was very clear that saturated fat was  not  related to heart disease. Concerning the incidence of coronary heart disease and diet, the authors concluded, simply, ‘No relationship found’. However, not until 1992 did a Framingham study leader publicly acknowledge the study's findings on fat. ‘In Framingham, Mass, the more saturated fat one ate. … the  lower  the person's serum cholesterol… and [they] weighed the  least ,’ wrote William P. Castelli, one of the Framingham directors, in an informal commentary. As a consequence of the nonpublication or disregard of study findings contrary to the diet-heart hypothesis, the idea that saturated fat had possibly been unduly vilified for decades not seriously considered by most nutrition experts. RECONSIDERATION OF THE TRIALS ON SATURATED FATS Reviews and books critical of the diet-heart hypothesis were not unknown in the 1960s and 1970s, including a publication by a former editor of the  Journal of the American Heart Association  and articles by other prominent scientists. They argued that the hypothesis was not supported by the available data and was contradicted by numerous observations. Over time, however, these critics were effectively marginalized and silenced. Not until the 2000s did this science again come to light, mainly through the work of journalist Gary Taubes. The first comprehensive compilation of arguments about why saturated fats are not bad for health was published by this author, also a journalist. The earliest formal analyses of the early data on saturated fats were led by Ronald M. Krauss, a cardiologist and nutrition expert, and published in two papers in the  American Journal of Clinical Nutrition  in 2010. Krauss experienced formidable hurdles in the peer-review process, evidently due to widespread resistance to re-evaluating a long-standing hypothesis. A colleague of Keys attempted to rebut these papers, yet soon thereafter, other scientists joined Krauss in reassessing the same data. Results from the core trials have now been analyzed extensively by scientists worldwide, including by the prestigious Cochrane group, most recently in 2020. Altogether, >20 review papers, including umbrella reviews, have been published, with the vast majority concluding that the data from randomized, controlled trials do not provide consistent or adequate evidence for continued recommendations limiting the intake of saturated fat. A few reviews have had findings to the contrary, yet these have mainly been explained by the inclusion of one trial, called the Finnish Mental Hospital Study, which lacked proper randomization, among other problems, and was therefore excluded in more recent reviews. The finding in Cochrane 2020 of an effect on cardiovascular events disappeared when subjected to a sensitivity analysis inside the report, in which studies that had not successfully reduced saturated fats were excluded. Reviews that have focused on LDL-cholesterol have ignored the far more definitive, long-term outcomes of cardiovascular events and mortality. Overall, therefore, despite extensive testing of the diet-heart hypothesis, the data do not support continued advice to restrict these fats for the prevention of heart disease. The findings from observational or epidemiological studies constitute less robust data since these studies are usually limited to demonstrating associations rather than cause-and-effect relationships. However, substantial epidemiological findings that contradict a hypothesis provide reasonable evidence that the hypothesis may be in error. Data from the largest epidemiological cohort study ever conducted, called Prospective Urban Rural Epidemiology (PURE), provides this type of contradictory evidence regarding the diet-heart hypothesis. PURE followed individuals aged 35–70 years, from 2003 to 2013, in 18 countries with a median follow-up of 7 4 years. The PURE investigators found that saturated fat was not associated with the risk of myocardial infarction or cardiovascular disease mortality and was significantly associated with lower total mortality as well as lower risk of stroke. This last finding, on stroke, is particularly significant, as it is consistent with other observational studies, and saturated fat is the only type of fat found to have a positive effect on this important cardiovascular health outcome. Further, nine reviews of the observational data conducted since 2010 have found no significant associations between the consumption of these fats and coronary heart disease. Epidemiological data of this quality and magnitude meaningfully contribute to the understanding of the relationship between saturated fats and cardiovascular disease. These data reinforce the findings from the more rigorous, clinical trial data, described above. Despite these extensive findings disproving a relationship between saturated fats and heart disease, speculation about the diet-heart hypothesis continues. For instance, the AHA journal  Circulation  published findings of an association between linoleic fatty acid, a prominent component of vegetable oils, and a lower incidence of cardiovascular events and mortality. However, this finding is based on nonstandardized, country-level (ecological) data, which is generally regarded to be among the lowest-quality types of evidence. U.S. DIETARY GUIDELINES ON SATURATED FATS The U.S. government was the first in the world to recommend saturated fat restriction. The United States Senate Select Committee on Nutrition and Human Needs published the Dietary Goals for the United States in 1977, which recommended that the public ‘reduce saturated fat consumption to account for about 10% of total energy intake. The report was heavily influenced by experts from the AHA and was written by a single Senate staffer with no background in science or nutrition. An early draft of the report further recommended that people ‘decrease consumption of meat,’ based on its saturated fat content. This advice was revised to read: ‘choose meats … which will reduce saturated fat intake’, leading to an emphasis in favor of ‘lean meat.’ Some observers have interpreted this revision to be exclusively due to the interference of the meat industry, yet a 2014 article in the  American Journal of Public Health  that examined the Senate committee process in detail concludes that ‘a lack of scientific consensus was the principal reason for the change in language on meat. This latter interpretation also reflects the absence of rigorous data linking saturated fats to heart disease, as described above. The Dietary Goals led to the establishment of a policy, co-issued by the U.S. Departments of Agriculture and Health and Human Services (USDA-HHS), called the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA), first published in 1980 and every 5 years since. The inaugural edition of the guidelines included advice to ‘Avoid too much fat, saturated fat, and cholesterol’ but did not include a specific numerical cap on saturated fats. The 1990 guidelines and all subsequent editions have included the target of limiting these fats to 10% of total calories or less. According to U.S. law, the DGA must reflect ‘the preponderance of the scientific and medical knowledge which is current at the time the report is prepared’. The subject of saturated fats presents a unique difficulty, however, since the original core trials concluded before the guidelines began. A review of all the DGA expert reports found that none of the expert committees appointed to review the science for each new edition of the guidelines had ever undertaken a direct, systematic review of these core trials on saturated fats. The guidelines had simply inherited the widely held view that saturated fats were linked to cardiovascular disease without its novel review of the science. A growing awareness of the core trials from the year 2010 onwards should arguably have spurred one of the subsequent Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committees (DGACs) to initiate a systematic review of these major trials, yet none has occurred. The 2015 DGAC decided at a late stage in the DGA process to undertake a new review of saturated fats, in response to the publication of a review paper on this topic, with authors including professors from Cambridge and Harvard Universities, and a prominent article in the  Wall Street Journal  on the same topic. Both publications suggested a lack of evidence linking saturated fats to heart disease. The DGAC's decision to initiate a review of saturated fats was revealed in emails obtained through a request made under the Freedom of Information Act and reflects a discomfort among some DGAC members that these publications ‘contradict[ed] the AHA conclusions’ on saturated fats. DGAC Vice-Chair, Alice Lichtenstein, a Tufts University scientist who had also twice chaired the AHA nutrition committee, suggested in an E-Mail to other DGAC members that they set a numerical cap on saturated fats, even though, she wrote, ‘There is no magic/data for the 10% number or 7% number that has been used previously’. The 2015 DGAC analysis of saturated fats resulting from this e-mail exchange was a narrative, nonsystematic review of seven external review papers. Two analyses of this 2015 DGAC review found it to have omitted at least one paper with null findings on saturated fat while inappropriately including other papers that supported advice to promote vegetable oils over saturated fats. In one instance, the DGAC included a paper that looked exclusively at linoleic acid, not saturated fats. In another instance, a review paper was included that relied heavily on the Finnish Mental Hospital Study, whose data, for reasons discussed above, had been deemed unreliable. The result was a DGAC review that did not provide a balanced or thorough evaluation of the external review papers current at the time the 2015 report was prepared. The 2015 DGAC concluded that the evidence for a relationship between saturated fats and heart disease was ‘strong.’ For the 2020 guidelines, the DGAC also conducted a review of saturated fats. A recent analysis of the studies included in this review found that 88% did  not  support a link between these fats and heart disease. Due to a new rule introduced by the USDA for this guidelines process, the 2020 DGAC was not allowed to examine external review papers and was therefore unable to consider any of the approximately 20 review papers described above. Top experts in the field attempted to introduce this evidence via written comments submitted formally to the USDA, in addition to meeting with the relevant senior staff members at both HHS and USDA and submitting a letter to members of Congress. Among the external review papers was now a 2021 ‘State of the Art Review,’ in the highly regarded  Journal of the American College of Cardiology , whose authors included 4 members of previous DGACs, and which found that there is ‘no robust evidence that current population-wide arbitrary upper limits on saturated fat consumption in the United States will prevent cardiovascular disease or reduce mortality.’ The paper was named one of the top 100 articles of 2021 by the journal's editor-in-chief, yet this and other reviews were ultimately not considered in the 2020 DGAC review on saturated fats. The DGAC final report makes no mention of any shift in scientific thinking on these fats and concludes that the evidence linking them to heart disease is ‘strong.’ An analysis of the 2020 DGAC subcommittee in charge of the saturated fat review found numerous intellectual, financial, and even religious conflicts of interest that may have contributed to a bias against saturated fats. For instance, one member was found to have chaired five vegetarian conferences from 1997 to 2018, which might reflect a bias against saturated fats, since a more liberal policy towards these fats would inevitably allow for greater consumption of animal foods. This member was also found to have been receiving funds from seven soy and tree nut industry groups, which stand to benefit commercially when guidelines favor the type of fats (polyunsaturated) commonly found in these foods. Another member had spent the last 50 years of her career working as a lead investigator on some of the government's largest trials attempting to show that fat and saturated fats are bad for health. A third member is part of a vegetarian activist group that has condemned the evolving science of saturated fats. These and other interests continue to influence the scientific debate on saturated fats. In conclusion, the DGA process has never systematically reviewed either the ‘core trials’ on saturated fats directly or the subsequent external review papers of those trials. The major change in thinking on saturated fats that has occurred among independent teams of scientists globally over the past 12 years has therefore not been reflected in U.S. nutrition policy. As a result, the Dietary Guidelines must be considered outdated on this topic. CONCLUSION For decades following the introduction of the diet-heart hypothesis, many scientists were unaware of the lack of evidence for this theory. However, the rediscovery of rigorous clinical trials testing this hypothesis and the subsequent publication of multiple review papers on these data have provided a new awareness of the fundamental inadequacy of the evidence to support the idea that saturated fats cause heart disease. The observed resistance against considering this new science by successive DGACs can potentially be seen as reflecting longstanding biases in the field and the influence of vested interests. Until the recent science on saturated fats is incorporated into the U.S. Dietary Guidelines, the policy on this topic cannot be seen as evidence-based. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9794145/

Epoch Health Article When it comes to healthy natural sugars, coconut sugar often comes to mind for many people. It boasts numerous health benefits not widely known. When it comes to healthy natural sugars, many people think of coconut sugar. Some might assume because of its name that coconut sugar is extracted from coconut fruit. However, to be precise, this type of sugar is called “coconut blossom sugar,” as it’s derived from sap that flows from the coconut tree’s inflorescences, which are clusters of flowers on a stem. Coconut sugar boasts numerous health benefits not widely known. How Is Coconut Sugar Produced? To obtain coconut sugar, coconut farmers usually climb coconut trees twice a day. During this process, they adeptly employ knives to cut into the unopened inflorescences of the coconut trees, collecting the sap that flows from them. The sap is then boiled, concentrated, and processed into sugar syrup, blocks, or granules. The main producers of coconut sugar are Southeast Asian countries, such as the Philippines, Indonesia, and Thailand. Collecting sap A single inflorescence from a coconut tree can yield 1.5 liters of sap each day, which contains 15 percent sugar, enough to produce 200 grams of coconut sugar. On average, a coconut tree grows a new inflorescence each month, and each can be tapped for sap for more than 40 consecutive days. This harvesting cycle of coconut trees can extend up to 20 years. Low Glycemic Index of Coconut Sugar In general, foods with a glycemic index (GI) of 55 or lower are classified as low-GI foods, as they result in a gradual change in blood sugar levels after consumption. Foods with a GI value between 56 and 69 are classified as medium-GI foods, and foods with a value of 70 or higher are considered high-GI foods. Various sources indicate that the GI of coconut sugar falls between 35 and 54, similar to that of maple syrup and lower than that of honey, which has a GI value of 60 (pdf). The GI of coconut sugar is lower because of its sugar composition. Coconut sugar made from fresh coconut sap without preservatives is made up of about 49 percent sucrose, 16 percent glucose, and 14 percent fructose. However, if preservative lime is added during the sap collection process, it will break down a smaller amount of sucrose into glucose and fructose. As a result, the produced coconut sugar will contain a higher sucrose level. Coconut sugar vs White sugar Coconut sugar also contains a certain amount of inulin, approximately 4.7 grams per 100 grams. Inulin is a type of dietary fiber that can help slow the rise of blood sugar. The Health Benefits of Coconut Sugar Heart-Healthy Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant The process of boiling coconut sap involves a Maillard reaction, an interaction of sugars, amino acids, and other macromolecules. The products of the Maillard reaction contribute to the nutritional value and sensory enjoyment of coconut sugar. However, the effects of the Maillard reaction are intricate and heterogeneous and can result in advanced glycation end products, which are something that should generally be avoided. But some of these substances also possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. American scientists conducted a small-scale pilot study employing a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled design published in the Journal of Applied Physiology. The study demonstrated the potential cardioprotective effect of coconut sugar on middle-aged and older adults. Nineteen adults around the age of 55 participated in the experiment. One group of participants consumed 1.5 grams of coconut sugar daily, and the other received a placebo. After eight weeks, the participants who consumed coconut sugar experienced a reduction in systolic blood pressure from 117 to 109 mmHg. The consumption of coconut sugar was associated with an improvement in arterial stiffness among participants. Anti-Diabetic One of the factors leading to Type 2 diabetes is oxidative stress, which can induce insulin resistance and impair insulin secretion. Coconut sugar contains high levels of polyphenols, which can reduce oxidative stress. “Research has confirmed that there are five main phenolic compounds, such as gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, caffeic acid, p-coumaric acid, and alanine in coconut sap. These will be in coconut sugar, but the amount will definitely change (increased in this case) due to longer processing time and higher processing temperature,” Yus Aniza Yusof, from the Department of Process and Food Engineering at the Faculty of Engineering, Universiti Putra Malaysia, told The Epoch Times. Experiments have demonstrated that coconut sugar possesses a certain inhibitory effect on alpha-amylase. A study published in the International Journal of PharmTech Research in 2015 suggested that coconut sugar could be used to treat Type 2 diabetes. Coconut sugar also contains amino acids such as leucine, arginine, and isoleucine, which may have anti-diabetic properties. In a study published in Foods in 2022, researchers fed diabetic rats cookies made from various raw materials. The results show that, compared with cookies containing added sucrose and margarine, rats that consumed corn cookies made with coconut sugar and coconut oil experienced a significant reduction in blood sugar levels and oxidative stress. Notably, their previously low hemoglobin levels and body weight also improved. After maintaining this diet for four weeks, the blood sugar indicators of the diabetic rats improved, and their overall condition became comparable to that of normal rats. Retains More Nutrients Than Refined Sugar Ms. Yusof mentioned that coconut sap contains 0.27 percent ash, which represents the content of minerals and trace metals such as calcium, magnesium, manganese, copper, sodium, potassium, zinc, and iron. “As the minerals are more stable and don’t destroy even by burning, hence they are present in coconut sugar too,” she explained. The iron, magnesium, and zinc content in coconut sugar is twice, four times, and 10 times higher than in cane sugar, respectively. Coconut sugar also contains more phosphorus and potassium. According to Ms. Yusof, although the quantities of these substances in coconut sugar aren’t substantial, consuming coconut sugar can, to some extent, provide the body with minerals and trace metals. Coconut sugar contains the amino acids required for protein synthesis, and it’s also a rich source of vitamins B1, B2, B3, and B6.

Black seeds Black seed (Nigella sativa) is a flowering plant native to Asia and the Mediterranean. Its seed has been used to make medicine for thousands of years.Black seed might have effects in the body that help boost the immune system, fight cancer, prevent pregnancy, reduce swelling, and lessen allergic reactions by acting as an antihistamine. People commonly use black seed for asthma, hay fever, diabetes, high blood pressure, eczema, weight loss, menstrual cramps, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support many of these uses. There is also no good evidence to support using black seed for COVID-19. Uses & Effectiveness Possibly Effective for Black Seed Acne. Applying a gel containing black seed extract to the skin might help to improve acne. Hay fever. Taking black seed oil by mouth daily might improve allergy symptoms in people with hay fever. Asthma. Taking black seed by mouth along with asthma medicines can improve coughing, wheezing, and lung function in some people with asthma. But it seems to work only in people with very low lung function before treatment. A lung disease that makes it harder to breathe (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD). Taking black seed oil by mouth helps to improve lung function in people with COPD who are also using prescribed inhalers. Diabetes. Taking black seed powder or black seed oil by mouth daily seems to improve blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. A digestive tract infection that can lead to ulcers (Helicobacter pylori or H. pylori). Taking black seed powder along with standard therapies might help to get rid of this infection. High blood pressure. Taking black seed powder or black seed oil by mouth might reduce blood pressure by a small amount in healthy adults. But it's not clear if it helps people with high blood pressure. High levels of cholesterol or other fats (lipids) in the blood (hyperlipidemia). Taking black seed supplements by mouth can slightly lower total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad") cholesterol, and triglycerides, and increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL or "good") cholesterol in people with or without hyperlipidemia. Breast pain (mastalgia). Applying a gel containing black seed oil to the breasts during the menstrual cycle seems to reduce pain. There is interest in using black seed for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful. Side Effects When taken by mouth : Black seed is commonly consumed in foods. Black seed oil and black seed powder are possibly safe when taken in larger amounts for up to 3 months. There isn't enough reliable information to know if larger amounts are safe when used for more than 3 months. Black seed can cause allergic rashes in some people. It can also cause stomach upset, vomiting, or constipation. When applied to the skin : Black seed oil or gel is possibly safe when used short-term. It can cause allergic rashes in some people. Special Precautions and Warnings When taken by mouth : Black seed is commonly consumed in foods. Black seed oil and black seed powder are possibly safe when taken in larger amounts for up to 3 months. There isn't enough reliable information to know if larger amounts are safe when used for more than 3 months. Black seed can cause allergic rashes in some people. It can also cause stomach upset, vomiting, or constipation. When applied to the skin : Black seed oil or gel is possibly safe when used short-term. It can cause allergic rashes in some people. Pregnancy : Black seed is commonly consumed in foods. But taking amounts greater than those found in foods while pregnant is likely unsafe. Black seed can slow down or stop the uterus from contracting. Breast-feeding : There isn't enough reliable information to know if black seed is safe to use when breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use. Children : Black seed oil is possibly safe for children when taken by mouth short-term and in recommended amounts by weight. Bleeding disorders : Black seed might slow blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding. Black seed might make bleeding disorders worse. Surgery : Black seed might slow blood clotting, reduce blood sugar, and increase sleepiness in some people. This can interfere with drugs used during and after surgical procedures and cause severe side effects. Stop using black seed at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery. Interactions Moderate Interaction Be cautious with this combination Medications for diabetes (Antidiabetes drugs) interacts with BLACK SEED Black seed might lower blood sugar levels. Taking black seed along with diabetes medications might cause blood sugar to drop too low. Monitor your blood sugar closely. Medications that decrease the immune system (Immunosuppressants) interacts with BLACK SEED Black seed can increase the activity of the immune system. Some medications, such as those used after a transplant, decrease the activity of the immune system. Taking black seed along with these medications might decrease the effects of these medications. Medications that slow blood clotting (Anticoagulant / Antiplatelet drugs) interacts with BLACK SEED Black seed might slow blood clotting. Taking black seed along with medications that also slow blood clotting might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding. Medications for high blood pressure (Antihypertensive drugs) interacts with BLACK SEED Black seed might lower blood pressure. Taking black seed along with medications that lower blood pressure might cause blood pressure to go too low. Monitor your blood pressure closely. Sedative medications (CNS depressants) interacts with BLACK SEED Black seed might cause sleepiness and slowed breathing. Some medications, called sedatives, can also cause sleepiness and slowed breathing. Taking black seed with sedative medications might cause breathing problems and/or too much sleepiness. Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandimmune) interacts with BLACK SEED Black seed might decrease levels of cyclosporine in the blood. This might reduce how well cyclosporine is able to work. Water pills (Diuretic drugs) interacts with BLACK SEED Black seed can decrease potassium levels. "Water pills" can also decrease potassium levels. Taking black seed along with "water pills" might make potassium levels drop too low. Amlodipine (Norvasc) interacts with BLACK SEED Amlodipine lowers blood pressure. Black seed also lowers blood pressure. Taking black seed with amlodipine might lower blood pressure too much. People taking black seed along with amlodipine should monitor their blood pressure. Medications that increase serotonin levels in the brain (Serotonergic Drugs) interacts with BLACK SEED Black seed might increase a brain chemical called serotonin. Some medications also have this effect. Taking black seed along with these medications might increase serotonin too much. This might cause serious side effects including heart problems, seizures, and vomiting. Clopidogrel (Plavix) interacts with BLACK SEED Clopidogrel can slow blood clotting. Black seed might also slow blood clotting. Taking black seed along with clopidogrel might increase the chances of bruising and bleeding. Medications changed by the liver (Cytochrome P450 2C9 (CYP2C9) substrates) interacts with BLACK SEED Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. Black seed might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications. This could change the effects and side effects of these medications. Phenytoin (Dilantin) interacts with BLACK SEED Phenytoin is used to control some types of seizures. Black seed may increase or decrease levels of phenytoin in the blood. Taking black seed with phenytoin might reduce the effects or increase the risk of having side effects to phenytoin. Warfarin (Coumadin) interacts with BLACK SEED Warfarin is used to slow blood clotting. Black seed might increase the effects of warfarin, which could increase the risk of bleeding. Sildenafil (Viagra) interacts with BLACK SEED Black seed might reduce levels of sildenafil in the body. Taking black seed with sildenafil might reduce the effects of sildenafil. Minor Interaction Be watchful with this combination Prednisolone interacts with BLACK SEED Black seed might decrease levels of prednisolone in the blood. This might reduce the effects of prednisolone. Dosing Black seed oil has most often been used by adults in doses of 1-2.5 grams by mouth daily for 4-12 weeks. Black seed powder has most often been used in doses of 1-2 grams by mouth daily for 8-12 weeks. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific condition.

Astragalus, a key herb in traditional Chinese medicine, has recently surged in popularity due to its impressive health benefits. Known for its ability to boost the immune system, this herb offers a natural way to enhance overall health. In this guide, we will explore the diverse benefits of astragalus, provide specific dosage recommendations for various health conditions, discuss safety precautions, and share tips for effective usage. Exploring the Health Benefits and Power of Astragalus Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) is a perennial plant from the legume family. It has been linked to numerous health benefits, such as: Immune Function : Astragalus is celebrated for its ability to enhance immune response. Research shows that it stimulates immune cells, like macrophages and natural killer cells, which are vital for defending against infections. A study found that participants taking astragalus extract had a 20% increase in immune markers compared to a placebo group. Anti-Inflammatory Properties : The herb is rich in compounds that combat inflammation. For instance, one study demonstrated that astragalus extract significantly reduced markers of inflammation in participants with chronic inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis. Heart Health : Emerging research suggests that astragalus may contribute to better heart health by improving circulation and lowering blood pressure. A review of several studies found that regular consumption of astragalus could reduce systolic blood pressure by an average of 10 mmHg. Stress Reduction : As an adaptogen, astragalus may help the body better manage stress. It can assist in balancing cortisol levels— the hormone responsible for stress. One study indicated that those who took astragalus reported a 30% decrease in stress-related symptoms. Anti-Aging Effects : Astragalus is loaded with antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress, which is linked to aging and chronic diseases. It may also promote cell longevity, with research indicating that it can increase the lifespan of certain cells by up to 25%. Blood Sugar Regulation : Some studies suggest that astragalus might aid in blood sugar control. For example, one study showed that participants taking astragalus supplements had a 15% reduction in fasting blood sugar levels compared to those who did not. Given these potential benefits, it's clear that astragalus can be a valuable addition to your health routine. Dosage Guidelines for Different Health Conditions Taking the correct dosage of astragalus is crucial for maximizing its benefits while minimizing side effects. Here are some dosage recommendations based on specific health conditions: General Immune Support : A typical suggestion is to take 500–1,000 mg of astragalus extract per day, ideally split into two doses. Chronic Fatigue and Stress : Individuals dealing with chronic fatigue or high stress may benefit from higher doses, between 1,500–3,000 mg daily. Heart Health : Research recommends doses from 600–1,200 mg daily to potentially support cardiovascular function. Blood Sugar Control : For those managing diabetes or blood sugar levels, a daily intake of 1,000–2,000 mg is generally advised. It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate dosage for your needs, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or take other medications. Safety Precautions and Possible Side Effects While astragalus is usually safe for most individuals at recommended doses, it is vital to be aware of possible side effects and interactions. Consider these precautions: Side Effects : Some people may experience mild side effects like gastrointestinal discomfort, bloating, or diarrhea. These effects often lessen as your body adapts to the supplement. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding : Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult their healthcare provider before using astragalus, as there is limited research on its safety during these times. Autoimmune Conditions : Since astragalus enhances the immune system, individuals with autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis, should approach with caution and seek professional guidance. Medication Interactions : Astragalus may interact with certain medications, notably immunosuppressants and antidiabetic drugs. Always discuss supplement use with your healthcare provider to avoid complications. Being informed about these safety precautions can help ensure that you use astragalus effectively. Tips for Safe and Effective Usage Incorporating astragalus into your health regimen can yield benefits when done thoughtfully. Here are some practical tips for its safe and effective usage: Choose Quality Supplements : Purchase astragalus from reputable brands that provide products tested for potency and purity. This helps guarantee you are receiving what is promised on the label. Monitor Your Body's Reactions : Pay attention to how your body responds when starting astragalus. If you notice unusual symptoms, consult with your healthcare provider promptly. Combine with a Healthy Lifestyle : For optimal benefits, mix astragalus supplementation with a balanced diet, consistent exercise, and adequate hydration. Explore Different Forms : Astragalus is available in several forms, including capsules, powders, tinctures, and teas. Trying different formats can help you determine what works best for you. Stay Consistent : Consistency is key with herbal supplements. For best results, incorporate astragalus regularly into your daily health routine. In summary, astragalus presents a wide range of health benefits, from bolstering immunity to supporting heart health. Following proper dosage guidelines, being mindful of safety precautions, and employing effective usage tips can help you safely harness the power of this remarkable herb. Final Thoughts Astragalus offers exciting potential as a natural resource for enhancing health and well-being. As with any supplement, making informed choices about its benefits, dosages, and safety precautions is crucial. Balancing traditional knowledge with modern science, astragalus invites everyone to explore its benefits while prioritizing their health and safety. Close-up view of astragalus root, showcasing its natural form. Adding astragalus to your wellness journey could very well strengthen your commitment to a healthier life. Always consult with healthcare professionals when adjusting your health routine to achieve the best outcomes for your individual needs.

Milk thistle is an herbal remedy derived from the milk thistle plant, also known as Silybum marianum . This prickly plant has distinctive purple flowers and white veins, which traditional stories say were caused by a drop of the Virgin Mary’s milk falling onto its leaves. The active ingredients in milk thistle are a group of plant compounds collectively known as silymarin. Its herbal remedy is known as milk thistle extract. Milk thistle extract has a high amount of silymarin that has been concentrated from the milk thistle plant. The silymarin extracted from milk thistle is known to have antioxidant, antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, it has traditionally been used to treat liver and gallbladder disorders, promote breast milk production, prevent and treat cancer and even protect the liver from snake bites, alcohol and other environmental poisons. Here are 7 science-based benefits of milk thistle: The wonderful Benefits of Milk Thisle 1. Milk thistle protects your liver Mil Thistle in Bloom Milk thistle is often promoted for its liver-protecting effects. It’s regularly used as a complementary therapy by people who have liver damage due to conditions like alcoholic liver disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, hepatitis and even liver cancer. It’s also used to protect the liver against toxins like amatoxin, which is produced by the death cap mushroom and is deadly if ingested. A 2021 study showed improvements in liver function in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease who have taken a milk thistle supplement, suggesting it could help reduce liver inflammation and liver damage. Although more research is needed on how it works, milk thistle is thought to reduce damage to the liver caused by free radicals, which are produced when your liver metabolizes toxic substances. One 2014 studyTrusted Source also found that it may slightly extend the life expectancy of people with cirrhosis of the liver due to alcoholic liver disease. However, the resultsTrusted Source from studies have been mixed, and not all have found milk thistle extract to have a beneficial effect on liver disease. Thus, more studies are needed to determine what dose and length of treatment are needed for specific liver conditions. And although milk thistle extract is commonly used as a complementary therapy for people with liver diseases, there’s currently no evidence that it can prevent you from getting these conditions, especially if you have an unhealthy lifestyle. 2. May help prevent age-related decline in Brain Function Milk thistle has been used as a traditional remedy for neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease for over two thousand years. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties mean that it is possibly neuroprotective and could help prevent the decline in brain function you experience as you age. In older animalTrusted Source studiesTrusted Source, silymarin has been shown to prevent oxidative damage to brain cells, which could help prevent mental decline. These studies have also seen that milk thistle may be able to reduce the number of amyloid plaques in the brains of animals with Alzheimer’s disease. Amyloid plaques are sticky clusters of amyloid proteins that can build up between nerve cells as you age. They are seen in very high numbers in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease, meaning that milk thistle could potentially be used to help treat this difficult condition. However, there are currently no human studies examining the effects of milk thistle in people with Alzheimer’s or other neurological conditions like dementia and Parkinson’s. Moreover, it’s unclear whether milk thistle is well enough absorbed in people to allow adequate amounts to pass through the blood-brain barrier. It’s also unknown what doses would need to be prescribed for it to have a beneficial effect. 3. Benefits of Milk thistle could protect your bones Osteoporosis is a disease caused by progressive bone loss. It usually develops slowly over a number of years and causes weak and fragile bones that break easily, even after minor falls. Milk thistle has been shown in experimental animal studies to stimulate bone mineralization and potentially be protective against bone loss. As a result, two 2013Trusted Source studies suggestTrusted Source that milk thistle may be a useful therapy for preventing or delaying bone loss in postmenopausal women. However, there are currently no human studies, so its effectiveness remains unclear. 4. It may improve cancer treatment A 2023 study found that the antioxidant effects of silymarin can stimulate anti-tumor activities as well as protect healthy cells from damage induced by chemotherapy. A 2022 reviewTrusted Source of animal studies shows that milk thistle could be useful for reducing the side effects of cancer treatments. It may also make chemotherapy work more effectively against certain cancers and, in some circumstances, even destroy cancer cells. However, older studiesTrusted Source in humans are very limitedTrusted Source and have yet to show a meaningful clinical effect in people. This may be because people aren’t able to absorb enough to get a medicinal effect. More studies are needed before it can be determined how silymarin might be used to support people undergoing cancer treatment. 5. It can boost breast milk production One reported effect of milk thistle is that it can boost breast milk production in lactating mothers. It’s thought to work by making more of the milk-producing hormone prolactin. The data is very limited, but one older randomized controlled studyTrusted Source found that mothers taking 420 mg of silymarin for 63 days produced 64% more milk than those taking a placebo. However, this is the only clinical study available. More research is needed to confirm these results and the safety of milk thistle for breastfeeding mothers. 6. It could help treat acne Acne is a chronic inflammatory skin condition. While not dangerous, it can cause scars. People may also find it painful and worry about its effects on their appearance. It’s been suggested that oxidative stress in the body may play a role in the development of acne. Due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, milk thistle may be a useful supplement for people with acne. Interestingly, one 2012 study found that people with acne who took 210 milligrams of silymarin per day for 8 weeks experienced a 53% decrease in acne lesions. However, as this is the only study, more high-quality research is needed. 7. Milk thistle can lower blood sugar levels for people with diabetes Milk thistle may be a useful complementary therapy to help manage type 2 diabetes. It’s been discovered that one of the compounds in milk thistle may work similarly to some diabetic medications by helping improve insulin sensitivity and decrease blood sugar. In fact, the same 2021 systematic review and analysis found that people routinely taking silymarin experienced a significant reduction in their fasting blood sugar levels and HbA1c, a measure of blood sugar control. Additionally, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of milk thistle may also be useful for reducing the risk of developing diabetic complications like kidney disease. However, this review also noted that the quality of the studies was not very high, so more studies are needed before it’s possible to make any firm recommendations. Is milk thistle safe? Milk thistle is generally considered safe when taken by mouth. When reported, side effects for milk thistle are generally gut disturbances like diarrhea, nausea or bloating. Some people are advised to be cautious when taking milk thistle. These include: Pregnant women: There is no data on its safety in pregnant women, so they are usually advised to avoid this supplement. Those allergic to the plant: Milk thistle may cause an allergic reaction in people who are allergic to the Asteraceae / Compositae family of plants. People with diabetes: The blood sugar-lowering effects of milk thistle may put people with diabetes at risk of low blood sugar. Those with certain conditions: Milk thistle can have estrogenic effects, which may worsen hormone-sensitive conditions, including some types of breast cancer. The bottom line Milk thistle is a safe supplement that shows potential as a complementary therapy for various conditions, including liver disease, cancer and diabetes. However, many of the studies are small and have methodological flaws, which makes it difficult to give firm guidance on this supplement or confirm its effects. Overall, more high-quality research is needed to define the doses and clinical effects of this fascinating herb. Be sure to check with your doctor or a trusted healthcare professional before beginning any herbal supplement.

HER2 Breast Cancer Cells HER2-positive breast cancer is an aggressive form of breast cancer characterized by an overexpression of the HER2 protein, which promotes rapid tumor growth. Many individuals seek complementary and/or natural approaches to enhance their well-being, manage side effects, and support the body’s healing process. Natural alternatives can play a crucial role in a holistic approach to cancer care. Below are some scientifically backed natural therapies that may help support the body alongside traditional treatments. 1. Anti-Inflammatory and Nutrient-Dense Diet A well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet can help support the immune system and reduce inflammation, which is often linked to cancer progression. Cruciferous Vegetables : Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and kale contain sulforaphane, which has been studied for its potential anti-cancer properties. Berries and Citrus Fruits : Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, these help combat oxidative stress and boost immune function. Omega-3 Fatty Acids : Found in flaxseeds, walnuts, and fatty fish, omega-3s may reduce inflammation and support cellular health. Turmeric (Curcumin) : This potent anti-inflammatory compound has shown promise in inhibiting cancer cell growth. Garlic and Onions : These contain sulfur compounds that may help slow cancer progression and support detoxification. 2. Herbal Remedies and Supplements For HER2 Breast Cancer Certain herbs and supplements have been researched for their potential to complement cancer treatment: Curcumin : A compound in turmeric, curcumin has demonstrated anti-cancer properties by targeting cancer cell proliferation and inflammation. Green Tea Extract (EGCG) : This powerful antioxidant has been studied for its ability to slow the growth of HER2-positive cancer cells. Medicinal Mushrooms : Reishi, turkey tail, and maitake mushrooms support immune function and have shown promise in cancer therapy. Vitamin D : Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to a higher risk of breast cancer; supplementation may be beneficial under medical supervision. Ashwagandha : An adaptogenic herb that may help reduce stress and support immune resilience. 3. Mind-Body Practices for Stress Reduction Chronic stress can weaken the immune system and promote cancer progression. Mind-body therapies can help enhance emotional well-being and physical resilience. Meditation and Mindfulness : Studies show that mindfulness meditation can reduce stress and improve quality of life for cancer patients. Yoga and Tai Chi : Gentle movement practices improve flexibility, reduce fatigue, and promote relaxation. Acupuncture : This traditional Chinese practice may help alleviate chemotherapy-related nausea, pain, and fatigue. Breathwork and Guided Imagery : Techniques such as deep breathing and visualization can aid in stress reduction and healing. Journaling and Emotional Expression : Writing down thoughts and emotions may help individuals process their experiences and reduce stress. 4. Detoxification and Gut Health A strong digestive system supports immune health and enhances the body’s ability to eliminate toxins. Probiotics and Fermented Foods : Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi support gut health and immunity. Fiber-Rich Foods : Whole grains, legumes, and vegetables promote detoxification through digestion. Hydration : Drinking plenty of filtered water helps flush out toxins and supports cellular function. Liver-Supporting Herbs : Dandelion root and burdock root can aid in natural detoxification processes. 5. Exercise and Lifestyle Changes Regular physical activity is linked to better cancer outcomes and improved overall health. Walking and Light Exercise : Moderate exercise, such as walking or stretching, can improve energy levels and reduce fatigue. Strength Training : Helps maintain muscle mass, which is important during cancer treatment. Adequate Sleep : Restorative sleep is essential for healing and immune function. Avoiding Toxins : Reducing exposure to environmental toxins such as pesticides, processed foods, and endocrine disruptors (e.g., BPA) can support overall health. Sunlight and Nature Exposure : Spending time in nature and getting adequate sunlight can improve mood and vitamin D levels. If you have HER2-positive breast cancer , certain supplements and foods should be avoided as they may interfere with treatment, promote cancer growth, or increase inflammation. Always consult your oncologist or a registered dietitian before making dietary or supplement changes. Supplements to Avoid Some supplements can interact with chemotherapy, targeted therapies (like Herceptin), or hormone therapies: Soy Isoflavones & Phytoestrogens (Soy Protein Isolate, Red Clover, Flaxseed Extracts, Dong Quai) Contain estrogen-like compounds that may stimulate hormone-sensitive cancers, including some HER2-positive cases. Milk Thistle Increases Estrogen Levels and can accelerate tumor growth. Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements (High doses) May interact with blood-thinning medications. Getting omega-3s from food (like fish) is preferable. Iron Supplements (unless prescribed) Excess iron can promote oxidative stress and tumor growth. Only take if anemic and under medical guidance. Serrapeptase Can act as a blood thinner and create excessive bleeding if surgery is required. HER2-positive breast cancer is not always hormone-sensitive , but some HER2+ cases are also ER+ (estrogen receptor-positive) , meaning they respond to estrogen. If your cancer is HER2+ and ER+ , avoiding estrogen-like compounds (phytoestrogens) may be beneficial. What Are Estrogen-Like Compounds (Phytoestrogens)? Phytoestrogens are plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen in the body. They can bind to estrogen receptors and may stimulate or block estrogen effects, depending on the situation. Foods High in Phytoestrogens to Limit or Avoid Flaxseeds & Flaxseed Oil High in lignans , which act as weak estrogens. Whole flax in small amounts may be okay, but high doses of flaxseed extract should be avoided. Legumes & Beans (contain phytoestrogens but in lower amounts) Chickpeas, Lentils, Peas – Best consumed in moderation. Red Clover & Herbal Supplements Found in teas and supplements; high in isoflavones (estrogen-like). Licorice Root & Dong Quai Used in herbal medicine and teas; may act like estrogen. Certain Seeds & Nuts (in high amounts) Sesame Seeds, Sunflower Seeds, Almonds – Contain phytoestrogens, but moderate intake is generally safe. Hidden Sources of Estrogen-Like Compounds Plastic Containers – BPA (Bisphenol A) can leach into food and act like estrogen. Use glass or BPA-free containers. Hormone-Treated Meats & Dairy – Opt for organic, hormone-free options when possible. Personal Care Products – Some cosmetics and shampoos contain parabens, which mimic estrogen. Can I Eat Any Phytoestrogens? If your cancer is HER2+ but ER-negative , phytoestrogens may have less impact. However, if you’re HER2+ and ER+ , it's best to be cautious, especially with soy supplements and highly processed soy foods . Foods to Avoid or Limit Processed & Red Meats (Bacon, Sausages, Deli Meats, Beef, Pork, Lamb) Contain carcinogens (e.g., nitrites, heme iron) that can increase cancer risk and inflammation. High-Sugar & Ultra-Processed Foods (Sodas, Candy, Cakes, White Bread, Fast Food) Can contribute to insulin resistance, inflammation, and tumor growth. Excessive Alcohol (Wine, Beer, Liquor) Increases estrogen levels and cancer recurrence risk. Best to avoid or limit intake. Soy-Based Processed Foods (Soy Protein Isolate, Tofu, Edamame, Miso, Tempeh in High Quantities) Whole soy foods in small amounts are likely safe, but avoid highly processed soy products. Fried & Trans Fat-Rich Foods (French Fries, Margarine, Packaged Snacks, Commercial Baked Goods) Can promote inflammation and negatively impact overall health. Dairy (Full-Fat Milk, Cheese, Butter in High Quantities) Some studies suggest excess dairy may promote hormone-driven cancers, though research is mixed. Opt for organic, hormone-free dairy if consumed. Grapefruit & Seville Oranges Can interfere with drug metabolism (especially tamoxifen and some chemotherapy drugs). What to Eat Instead? Cruciferous Vegetables (Broccoli, Kale, Brussels Sprouts) – Contain cancer-fighting compounds. Berries (Blueberries, Strawberries) – Rich in antioxidants without interfering with treatment. Healthy Fats (Avocado, Nuts, Olive Oil) – Support overall health without excess inflammation. Lean Proteins (Fish, Chicken, Lentils) – Helps maintain muscle mass. Whole Grains (Quinoa, Brown Rice) – Better blood sugar control. Green Leafy Vegetables (Spinach, Swiss Chard) – Provide essential nutrients. Natural Alternative Protocols A Natural & Repurposed drugs protocol needs to be individualized as each Cancer patient has their own individual requirements based on some of the following information: The stage of the breast Cancer Metasteses Health of the individual’s main organs such as Heart (blood thinners, prior Heart ryhtym issues, Liver, Kidneys, Spleen, Pancreas, Lungs, Thyroid, Pituitary Weight loss or maintaining Current medications Blood Chemistry results These are things that must be asked of any Cancer patient, and failure to do so may place the Cancer patient in greater danger than the Cancer itself. I started this substack and my two facebook groups to bring light to the problems that I see in every group…Failure to ask the important questions to gain an understanding what each individuals needs are and to do no more hram to the person than what they are facing with their Cancer. I wrote my 588-page book to bring attention to the various Cancers, the use of Ivermectin, Fenbendazole, Mebendazole, Albendazole, CBD, THC and 17 other different proven Cancer killers. I have many blog articles here on my substack and on my website. I have an Ivermectin dose Calculator which I made in Excel to guide people in taking the appropriate doses of Ivermectin based on their weight and their individual needs whether that be parasitic elimintion or Cancer. The dose calculator can be downloaded for free on my website: Brighter-works.ca Final Thoughts: A Personalized Approach Natural alternatives can provide valuable support for individuals with HER2-positive breast cancer . By embracing a holistic approach that includes a nutrient-rich diet, stress management, herbal remedies, and healthy lifestyle choices, individuals can support their body’s natural healing processes and enhance their overall well-being. However, it is essential to note that the information I provide is not medical advice and it is adviseable to see your personal Medical Doctor or Naturopathic Doctor for their guidance.

Epoch Health Article The cervix connects the vagina to the uterus through a canal called the endocervical canal. It has two parts: the ectocervix (the outer surface) and the endocervix (the inner canal). The squamocolumnar junction, or transformation zone, is where the endocervix and ectocervix meet. This is the area where most cervical cancers begin—the location of the transformation zone changes depending on age and after giving birth. There are two main Types of Cervical Cancer Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC):  Squamous cells are flat, skin-like cells that cover the ectocervix. Between 80 and 90 percent of cervical cancers are of this type. SCCs can be keratinizing, meaning the cells form nests (masses) containing keratin (a tough and fibrous protein) or non-keratinizing, meaning the cells form nests without keratin. Adenocarcinoma Adenocarcinoma: starts in the glandular cells that produce mucus in the endocervix. Although less common than SCC, its incidence has risen, accounting for 10 to 20 percent of cervical cancers. Mucinous adenocarcinoma is the most common form of adenocarcinoma, and endometrioid adenocarcinoma resembles cancer found in the uterine lining. At the same time, clear cell carcinoma may occur in daughters of women who took diethylstilbestrol (DES) during pregnancy. The two main cervical cancers receive similar treatments.

Stained Breast Cancer Cells 1. First, Just Listen Say Women with Breast Cancer It’s a shock to learn that a friend or loved one has breast cancer. It’s natural to want to know all the details. But a lot of questions can be tough for women with Breast Cancer to face. They may not have all the answers yet. Accept what they're sharing. They understand you don’t know what to say. But instead of, "You're a fighter; you're going to beat this,” try, "I can't imagine how you must feel, I'm here to listen if you want to talk." 2. Don’t Say, 'Call Me If You Need Me' You’ll probably never get the call. It’s better to be specific about what you can do. Say “I can help you with housework on Tuesday or Thursday,” or, “I'm making some casseroles, is there something you would prefer or any ingredient I should avoid?” If they're recovering from surgery, offer to wash their hair since reaching above their head is nearly impossible. 3. Kids Need TLC Kids are kids whether a parent is dealing with cancer or not. Offer to drive your friend’s children to school and shuttle them to soccer practice. Help make things as “normal” as possible. Many teachers and other adults don’t know what to say to kids with a sick parent -- so they say nothing. Be someone they can turn to. Tell them that you’ll listen when they want to talk. Mom watching son go to school 4. They Need a 'Wingman' It’s easy for someone with breast cancer to get overwhelmed by the decisions they have to make. They might need your help to understand it all. Offer to go along to important doctor’s appointments to take notes and ask questions. Having another set of ears in the room may ease their mind. You can offer to drive them to chemotherapy or radiation sessions, too. A picture of two Breast Cancer survivors 5. Reconstruction is NOT a Boob Job A mastectomy -- the removal of one or both breasts -- is an ordeal. Many women are heartbroken to lose such intimate body parts. Reconstruction can rebuild the shape and look of their chest, but it’s not the same as breast enhancement. It can take many surgeries before it’s all over. Some women decide against doing it at all. Whatever your loved one chooses, accept it. Don’t try to change their mind. 6. Cancer Doesn’t Ask Your Age If someone in their 20s or 30s has the disease, they're probably tired of people saying, “You’re so young and active, how can you have cancer?” They may feel isolated because many people in their shoes are much older. When they feel comfortable, urge them to find a group of young people with breast cancer who can understand what they're going through. 7. Men Get It, Too More than 2,500 men are diagnosed with breast cancer each year in the U.S. If it’s a guy you know, don’t question why they have a “woman’s disease” or insist it must be the wrong diagnosis. Men with breast cancer may need even more support because they feel out of place. Most importantly, encourage the men in your life to get any breast lump checked by a doctor right away. 8. Cancer Isn’t One-Size-Fits-All There are many different kinds of breast cancer. Some grow fast, some grow slow. Some are harder to treat than others. You probably won’t know exactly which type your friend has -- they might not even know right away. So don’t say, “My friend had breast cancer and it was horrible,” or “My aunt’s cancer was no big deal.” Each case is unique, and people respond differently to treatment.

The world of health care is expanding. More people are turning to alternative therapies as complementary options to traditional medicine. These natural practices aim to harness the body’s natural healing abilities, offering various methods to enhance well-being. This blog post examines alternative therapies, focusing on Ivermectin and Fenbendazole, highlighting how they work and the benefits they may provide. Understanding Therapy Alternative Medicine Alternative therapies are often seen as non-conventional medical practices. They differ from standard treatments, which are supported by rigorous research and clinical trials. Instead, many alternative therapies are based on longstanding traditions and anecdotal evidence. Some individuals may be cautious about exploring these options because of the uncertainty surrounding them. However, many alternative practices have been used for thousands of years and are deeply rooted in various cultures. By studying and integrating these therapies with conventional treatments, patients can achieve a more holistic approach to their health. The Appeal of Natural Practices The interest in alternative therapies is on the rise, driven by a growing awareness of personal health. Many people are actively seeking natural and holistic solutions that address the whole person instead of just managing symptoms. Natural products, such as those derived from plants or minerals, are often favored by consumers for being perceived as safer with fewer side effects compared to synthetic drugs. For instance, a survey found that 75% of people express concerns about the potential risks of pharmaceuticals, such as side effects and dependency. This awareness has sparked a shift towards safer, natural alternatives. Ivermectin: A Closer Look Ivermectin was originally developed as a treatment for parasitic infections. However, it has gained attention for potential uses beyond its traditional purpose. Although it is primarily used for treating specific infections in both livestock and humans, researchers are investigating its effectiveness against viral infections. Some studies have shown promise, suggesting that Ivermectin may possess antiviral properties. For example, a study published in 2021 indicated that Ivermectin showed effectiveness against certain viruses in lab settings, but substantial clinical evidence in humans is still required to confirm these findings. Ivermectin as an alternative therapy exploring nature's remedies It is crucial for anyone considering Ivermectin as an alternative therapy to consult with a healthcare provider. Discussing its potential benefits and drawbacks can help ensure informed decisions. Fenbendazole: The Growing Interest Fenbendazole is another compound generating interest in alternative medicine circles. Known for its effectiveness as an anthelmintic, it is often used in veterinary practice to treat worm infections in animals. Lately, some people are curious about its potential use in treating cancer. Anecdotal reports have surfaced, suggesting that Fenbendazole might hinder cancer cell growth. A small laboratory study indicated that it altered cancer cell behavior, reinforcing some of these claims. However, clinical trials that examine its efficacy for cancer treatment in humans remain limited. As with Ivermectin, those considering Fenbendazole should seek professional guidance to understand its implications fully. Other Alternative Therapies Worth Exploring Beyond Ivermectin and Fenbendazole, numerous alternative therapies deserve attention. Here are a few more to consider: Herbal Remedies Herbal remedies utilize the natural healing properties of plants. Common examples include echinacea, which is known for its immune-boosting benefits, and ginger, celebrated for its digestive support. These remedies can complement traditional medicine, but it is essential to pay attention to quality, appropriate dosages, and potential interactions with conventional medications. Nutraceuticals Nutraceuticals are food-based products that provide health benefits. This category includes dietary supplements containing vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. A recent study found that nearly 50% of adults regularly take supplements, believing they support overall health. Speaking with a healthcare provider can help identify the best supplements tailored to individual needs. Physical Therapies Physical therapies like acupuncture and massage focus on the body's physical well-being. These practices can reduce stress, relieve pain, and promote relaxation, making them valuable additions to any healthcare routine. Exploring Your Options Wisely The field of alternative therapies is rich and constantly evolving. As people increasingly seek natural health solutions, options like Ivermectin and Fenbendazole come into play. While these therapies may offer benefits, they should complement conventional medical treatments rather than replace them. Being informed and consulting healthcare professionals is vital when exploring alternative therapies. This approach can ensure safety and effectiveness, paving the way for a more balanced and holistic view of health. By remaining open-minded and willing to explore various approaches, individuals can enhance their well-being using diverse methods that extend beyond conventional medicine. In this journey toward health and wellness, knowledge and professional collaborations can unlock the potential benefits of alternative therapies, leading to a satisfying and fulfilling life.

A cancer cell spreading into healthy tissue Is Cancer a result of Lifestyle, Environmental, and Genetic Factors Cancer remains a leading cause of death worldwide. In 2023, there were an estimated 19 million new cancer cases and approximately 10 million cancer-related deaths globally. These numbers are projected to rise, with predictions indicating that by 2040, there could be nearly 30 million new cancer cases and 16 million cancer-related deaths annually​. Understanding the causes of cancer is crucial for prevention and treatment. This article explores the genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors contributing to cancer and offers insights on how to mitigate these risks. When does cancer occur? What is the Cause of Cancer? Cancer begins at the cellular level when cells grow uncontrollably and invade normal tissue. This progression happens in multiple stages, starting from precancerous changes to the development of malignant tumors. Some cancers can spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system through a process known as metastasis. Where does cancer occur? Cancer can affect various body parts, including the skin, bones, blood vessels, muscles, lungs, kidneys, and more. It can also impact the immune system, which plays a key role in both the development and progression of cancer. Can you inherit cancer? Cancer can be inherited when certain gene mutations are passed down through families. Genes, which are segments of DNA located on chromosomes, can mutate over time due to factors such as diet, lifestyle choices, and environmental exposures. This is known as the genetic cause of cancer. While only 5-10% of all cancers are genetically inherited, these tend to occur earlier in life. Examples include Lynch syndrome, which increases the risk of colon and uterine cancers, and mutations in the BRCA gene family, which are linked to breast and ovarian cancers. Today, biomarker tests are available to assess individual risks and guide appropriate treatment options based on a person’s genetic profile. What are the behavioral and lifestyle factors that cause cancer? A handful of behavioral factors may lead to genetic mutations and cancer development. According to Dr. Harold Varmus, Nobel laureate and former director of the National Institutes of Health, “The prevention of cancer requires us to look not just at genetic predisposition but at how our lifestyle choices and environmental exposures interact with our biology to affect cancer risk.” Smoking tobacco: Smoking can lead to lung cancer, as well as cancers of the mouth, throat, esophagus, pancreas, bladder, cervix, and kidneys. The carcinogens in tobacco smoke damage the DNA in cells, which can lead to mutations and uncontrolled cell growth. Excessive UV exposure (tanning or sunbathing): UV exposure causes skin cancer, including melanoma, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. UV radiation damages the DNA in skin cells, which can trigger mutations that result in cancerous growths. Unhealthy dietary choices and obesity: Consuming red and processed meats can increase cancer risk, particularly colorectal cancer. Diets high in red and processed meats are linked to higher levels of carcinogenic compounds like nitrates and nitrites, which can damage the lining of the bowel. Additionally, the microbiome, consisting of all the microscopic organisms in our bodies, supports the immune system’s ability to protect against harmful pathogens. Diets and behaviors directly impact the microbiome and the immune system’s response to cancer. Obesity is likely to surpass smoking as the leading preventable cause of cancer. Consuming animal fat aids tumor growth and reduces anti-tumor immune cells. Researchers continue to explore the link between obesity and cancer development, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy diet and weight. High alcohol consumption: High alcohol consumption is linked to various cancers, including those of the mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, breast, colon, stomach, pancreas, head and neck. Alcohol can act as a solvent, making it easier for other carcinogens to enter cells, and it can also be converted into acetaldehyde, a toxic chemical that damages DNA. Recent studies suggest that around 4% of cancers worldwide are caused by alcohol intake, highlighting the significant impact of excessive alcohol consumption on cancer risk. Unsafe sex: Engaging in unsafe sex can lead to viral infections such as human papillomavirus (HPV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), which increase cancer risk. HPV is a major cause of cervical cancer, as well as cancers of the anus, penis, throat, and mouth. HIV weakens the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off cancer-causing infections. Inflammatory conditions (obesity and ulcerative colitis): Conditions like obesity and ulcerative colitis are linked to higher cancer risks. Chronic inflammation can lead to DNA damage over time, increasing the risk of cancer. Obesity is associated with cancers of the breast, colon, rectum, endometrium, esophagus, kidney, and pancreas, while ulcerative colitis increases the risk of colorectal cancer. Can where you live or work cause cancer? Exposure to environmental factors, such as certain chemicals and radiation can indeed influence your cancer risk. Let’s explore some of these key factors in more detail: Air quality: Poor air quality and pollution contribute to lung cancer. Pollutants in the air, such as particulate matter and industrial emissions, can damage lung tissue and lead to cancer over time. This complicates the diagnosis and treatment process, making it crucial to address air quality for cancer prevention. Sun exposure: Approximately 90% of skin cancers are caused by UV rays from the sun, tanning salons, and sunlamps. UV radiation can damage the DNA in skin cells, leading to mutations that result in skin cancer. One in five Americans will be diagnosed with skin cancer before age 70. Protecting your skin from excessive sun exposure is essential to reduce this risk. Advances in immunotherapy have successfully treated over 99% of skin cancer cases, offering hope and effective treatment options for those affected. Radiation and chemical exposure: Exposure to high doses of radiation, such as those from chemotherapy and contact with radioactive materials, can increase the risk of developing cancer. Additionally, chemicals like asbestos and benzene are potent carcinogens that can lead to various cancers. Minimizing exposure to these harmful substances is critical for cancer prevention. Do viruses or bacteria cause cancer? Yes, bacterial and viral infections can cause genetic mutations and chronic inflammation that contribute to the development of cancer. Theories surrounding bacterial causes of cancer date back over 100 years, put forth by the Father of Cancer Immunotherapy, Dr. William B. Coley, often referred to as the Father of Cancer Immunotherapy. Dr. Coley observed that bacterial infections could sometimes lead to the regression of cancerous tumors, leading him to develop “Coley’s toxins,” a mixture of killed bacteria used to stimulate the immune system. His pioneering work laid the groundwork for modern cancer immunotherapy by highlighting the potential of the immune system in combating cancer. Some common viruses speculated to increase cancer risk include: Human papillomavirus (HPV): This virus is linked to cervical, anal, penile, and several head and neck cancers. HPV is known to cause mutations in the DNA of infected cells, which can lead to the development of cancerous tumors. Hepatitis B and C: These viruses can lead to liver cancer. Chronic infection with hepatitis B or C can cause long-term liver inflammation and damage, increasing the risk of developing liver cancer over time. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV): This virus is associated with certain lymphomas and nasopharyngeal cancer. EBV can cause changes in the DNA of infected cells, contributing to the development of these types of cancer. Helicobacter pylori: This bacterium is linked to stomach cancer. Chronic infection with Helicobacter pylori can cause long-term inflammation of the stomach lining, which can lead to the development of stomach cancer. Vaccines and treatments to protect against virus-related cancers are crucial in the fight against cancer. For example, a vaccine protecting against hepatitis B has been available since 1982, significantly reducing the incidence of liver cancer caused by this virus. CRI funds research into both preventive and therapeutic cancer vaccines , emphasizing the importance of these advancements in cancer prevention and treatment. This type of research is vital in developing new methods to prevent virus-related cancers and improve the outcomes for those already affected. How to Reduce Your Cancer Risk About 4 in 10 cancer cases can be prevented through healthy living and policies that protect the public. Key steps include: Quitting smoking Maintaining a healthy weight Eating a balanced diet Limiting alcohol intake Protecting yourself from the sun Staying physically active Avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals Getting vaccinated against cancer-causing viruses

Kidney Tumor What are cancerous tumors on Kidneys? Kidney cancer is the abnormal growth of cells in your kidney tissue. In time, these cells form a mass called a tumor. Cancer begins when something triggers a change in the cells, and they divide out of control. A cancerous or malignant tumor can spread to other tissues and vital organs. When this happens, it’s called metastasis. Who does kidney cancer affect? Kidney cancer is most common in people between the ages of 65 and 74. Men are twice as likely as women to develop the disease. It’s also more common in Native American and Black populations. Kidney cancer is much less common in children. However, 500 to 600 children are diagnosed with a Wilms tumor (a type of kidney cancer) every year in the United States. What are the types of kidney cancer? There are different types of kidney cancer, including: Renal cell carcinoma (RCC): This is the most common form of kidney cancer in adults and accounts for 85% of all kidney cancers. Renal cell carcinoma usually develops as a single tumor in one kidney, but it can affect both kidneys. The cancer begins in the cells that line your kidney’s tubules (tiny tubes that return nutrients and fluid back to your blood). The most common type of RCC is clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Transitional cell cancer: Transitional cell carcinoma accounts for 6% to 7% of all kidney cancers. This cancer usually begins in the area where your ureter connects to the main part of your kidney. This area is called your renal pelvis. Transitional cell carcinoma can also occur in your ureters or bladder. Renal sarcoma: This is the least common form of kidney cancer, accounting for only 1% of kidney cancer cases. It begins in the connective tissues of your kidneys and, if not treated, can spread to nearby organs and bones. Wilms tumor: This is the most common type of kidney cancer in children. It accounts for about 5% of kidney cancers. How common is kidney cancer? Kidney cancer represents about 3.7% of all cancers in the United States. Each year, more than 62,000 Americans are diagnosed with kidney cancer. The risk of kidney cancer increases with age. Kidney Cancer Symptoms and Causes What are the signs of kidney cancer? Kidney cancer may not produce any noticeable symptoms in its early stages. But as the tumor grows, symptoms may begin to appear. For that reason, kidney cancer often isn’t diagnosed until it has begun to spread. Kidney cancer symptoms may include: Blood in your pee (hematuria). A lump or mass in your kidney area. Flank pain. Tiredness. A general sense of not feeling well. Loss of appetite. Weight loss. Low-grade fever. Bone pain. High blood pressure. Anemia. High calcium. What is the primary cause of kidney cancer? The exact cause of kidney cancer isn’t known, but there are certain risk factors that may increase your chances of getting the disease. These include: Smoking : People who smoke are at greater risk for kidney cancer. In addition, the longer a person smokes, the higher the risk. Obesity : Obesity is a risk factor for kidney cancer. In general, the more overweight a person is, the higher the risk. High blood pressure : Also called hypertension, high blood pressure has been linked to an increased risk of kidney cancer. Family history : People who have family members with kidney cancer may have an increased risk of developing cancer themselves. Radiation therapy : Women who have been treated with radiation for cancer of their reproductive organs may have a slightly increased risk of developing kidney cancer. Gene changes (mutations) : Genes contain instructions for a cell’s function. Changes in certain genes can increase the risk of developing kidney cancer. Long-term dialysis treatment : Dialysis is the process of cleaning your blood by passing it through a special machine. Dialysis is used when a person’s kidneys aren’t functioning properly. Tuberous sclerosis complex : Tuberous sclerosis is a disease that causes seizures and intellectual disabilities, as well as the formation of tumors in many different organs. von Hippel-Lindau disease (VHL) : People with this inherited disorder are at greater risk for developing kidney cancer. This disorder causes noncancerous tumors in your blood vessels, typically in your eyes and brain. How serious is a tumor on the kidney? It depends. Some kidney tumors are benign (noncancerous). These tumors are generally smaller than cancerous tumors and don’t spread to other parts of your body. Surgical removal is the most common treatment for noncancerous kidney tumors. Whether your kidney tumor is cancerous or noncancerous, you should move forward with treatment as soon as possible to avoid complications. Diagnosis and Tests How is kidney cancer diagnosed? If you have kidney cancer symptoms, your healthcare provider will perform a complete medical history and physical exam. They also may order certain tests that can help in diagnosing and assessing cancer. These tests may include: Urinalysis: A sample of your urine (pee) is tested to see if it contains blood. Even very small traces of blood, invisible to the naked eye, can be detected in tests of urine samples. Blood tests: These tests count the number of each of the different kinds of blood cells, as well as look at different electrolytes in your body. A blood test can show if there are too few red blood cells (anemia), or if your kidney function is impaired (by looking at the creatinine). CT scan: This is a special X-ray that uses a computer to create a series of images, or slices, of the inside of your body. This test is often done with intravenous contrast (dye). People with impaired kidney function may not be able to receive the dye. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): This is a test that produces images of the inside of your body using a large magnet, radio waves and a computer. Ultrasound: This test uses high-frequency sound waves that are transmitted through body tissues to create images that are displayed on a monitor. This test is helpful in detecting tumors, which have a different density from healthy tissues. Renal mass biopsy: During this procedure, a thin needle is inserted into the tumor, and a small sample of your tissue is removed (biopsy). A pathologist will look at the tissue under a microscope to see if there are any cancer cells. Because biopsies for kidney cancer aren’t always completely reliable, your healthcare provider may or may not recommend this test. What are the kidney cancer stages? Most cancers are grouped by stage, a description of cancer that aids in planning treatment. The stage of a cancer is based on: The location and size of the tumor. The extent to which your lymph nodes are affected. The degree to which the cancer spread, if at all, to other tissue and organs. Your healthcare provider uses information from various tests, including CT, MRI and biopsy, to determine the stage of cancer. Stage I : The tumor is 7 centimeters (cm) across or smaller and is only in your kidney. It hasn’t spread to lymph nodes or other tissue. (Lymph nodes are small “filters” that trap germs and cancer cells and store infection-fighting cells.). Stage II : The tumor is larger than 7 cm across but is still only in your kidney. It hasn’t spread to lymph nodes or other tissue. Stage III : The tumor has spread to your major blood vessels — your renal vein and inferior vena cava — or into the tissue surrounding your kidney or to nearby lymph nodes. Stage IV : The tumor has spread outside of your kidney to your adrenal gland (the small gland that sits on top of your kidney), or to distant lymph nodes or other organs. Tumors are also graded, which is a way of rating a tumor based on how abnormal its cells look. Tumor grading can also tell your healthcare provider how fast the tumor is likely to grow. Tumors whose cells don’t look like normal cells and divide rapidly are called high-grade tumors. High-grade tumors tend to grow and spread more quickly than low-grade tumors. Management and Treatment How is kidney cancer treated? Kidney cancer treatment depends on the stage and grade of the tumor, as well as your age and overall health. Options include surgery, ablation, radiation therapy, targeted drug therapy, immunotherapy and sometimes chemotherapy. Surgery Surgery is the treatment of choice for most stages of kidney cancer. Several surgical options may be considered, including: Partial nephrectomy: Your surgeon removes the part of your kidney that contains the tumor. Radical nephrectomy: Your surgeon removes your entire kidney and some of the tissue around it. They may also remove some lymph nodes in the area. When one kidney is removed, the remaining kidney is usually able to perform the work of both kidneys. Ablation Sometimes, heat and cold can destroy cancer cells. People who aren’t candidates for surgery may benefit from cryoablation or radiofrequency ablation. Cryoablation: During this procedure, your healthcare provider inserts a needle through your skin and into the kidney tumor. The cancer cells are then frozen with cold gas. Radiofrequency ablation: Your healthcare provider inserts a needle through your skin and into the kidney tumor. Next, an electrical current is passed through the cancer cells to destroy them. Radiation therapy Your healthcare provider may recommend radiation therapy if you only have one kidney or if you’re not eligible for surgery. Radiation therapy is most often used for easing kidney cancer symptoms, such as pain. Targeted drug therapy Targeted drug therapy blocks certain characteristics that help cancer cells thrive. For example, these drugs can stop the growth of new blood vessels or proteins that feed cancer. Targeted drug therapy is often used when surgery isn’t an option. In some cases, these medications may be given after surgery to reduce the risk of cancer coming back. Immunotherapy Immunotherapy uses certain medications to boost your own immune system. In turn, this helps your body recognize and destroy cancer cells more effectively. Immunotherapy may be given as a standalone treatment or along with surgery. Chemotherapy Chemotherapy isn’t a standard treatment for kidney cancer. But it can be helpful in some cases — usually only after trying immunotherapy and targeted drug therapy. Chemotherapy medications are taken by mouth or given through a vein (intravenously) and are generally well tolerated. Prevention Is kidney cancer preventable? Because the exact cause of kidney cancer is unknown, there isn’t a way to prevent it altogether. However, you may be able to reduce your risk by not smoking and managing certain conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity. Outlook / Prognosis What can I expect if I have kidney cancer? Your kidney cancer prognosis depends on the type and stage of cancer (whether it’s just in your kidney or has spread to other places in your body). The chance of recovery also depends on your general state of health. Is kidney cancer curable? Like most cancers, kidney cancer is most treatable when found in its early stages. In general, if the cancer is detected early, before it breaks through the outer covering of your kidney, kidney cancer is often curable. Living With When should I see my healthcare provider? If you develop kidney cancer symptoms, such as pain in your side, a lump near your kidney or blood in your pee, schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider right away. They can run tests to determine the cause of your symptoms and develop a personalized treatment plan. What questions should I ask my healthcare provider? Learning everything you can about your kidney cancer diagnosis can empower you and help you make informed decisions about your treatment. Here are some questions to ask your healthcare provider: What type of kidney cancer do I have? Where is the tumor? Is the cancer localized, or has it spread? What stage of kidney cancer do I have? What are my treatment options? What’s my prognosis?

Muscle may be the hidden key to a longer, healthier, and more fulfilling life. Muscle loss vs healthy arm An Epoch Health ArticleFrom a young age, we are encouraged to save for retirement, investing in our financial future to ensure a comfortable and fulfilling later life. What if we could also invest in our future health with the same diligence? Enter skeletal muscle, the often-overlooked organ of longevity. Dr. Gabrielle Lyon, a board-certified family physician and leading voice in muscle-centric medicine, calls skeletal muscle the true organ of longevity. Mounting scientific evidence supports her claim. A 2014 study published in the American Journal of Medicine found that older adults with more muscle mass were less likely to die prematurely, independent of fat mass and other risk factors. Muscle mass surpasses body mass index as a predictor of lifespan and plays a pivotal role in maintaining overall health and independence as we age, according to a 2014 study in The American Journal of Medicine. “It is increasingly being recognized that total body mass is an inadequate marker of prognosis in older adults,” it concluded. Dr. Lyon wrote in her book “Forever Strong”: “The higher your healthy muscle mass, the greater your protection against all-cause mortality and morbidity.” What Is Sarcopenia? Sarcopenia, the progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength, begins as early as age 30 and becomes more pronounced with age. Symptoms include reduced muscle strength, difficulty with physical tasks, and decreased muscle size. According to the Alliance for Aging Research, it affects about 10 percent of adults over 60 and nearly half of those over 80. “We lose between 5 and 15 percent of muscle mass each decade,” Dr. Sandeep Palakodeti, chief medical officer of Rebel Health Alliance, said in an interview with The Epoch Times. Sarcopenia translates from Greek as “poverty of flesh,” and its consequences extend beyond muscle loss. A 2012 study in Frontiers in Physiology indicates that the decline in muscle strength occurs two to five times faster than muscle mass loss, leading to greater physical impairment. Age-related hormonal changes, inactivity, poor nutrition, and chronic diseases such as metabolic disorders and cardiovascular disease can contribute to sarcopenia. Sarcopenia imposes a significant economic burden on the U.S. health care system, with the total estimated cost of hospitalizations reaching $40.4 billion, according to a 2019 study published in the Journal of Frailty and Aging. The research revealed that people over 40 with sarcopenia were almost twice as likely to be hospitalized as those without the condition. The Hidden Cost of Muscle Loss Sarcopenia has profound implications for overall health and longevity, leading to increased risks of falls, frailty, hospitalization, and even death. The reduction in muscle strength compromises balance and mobility, making falls more likely and recovery more difficult. A 2019 study in the Journals of Gerontology Series A: Biological Sciences and Medical Sciences found that people with low muscle strength are 50 percent more likely to die earlier than their stronger peers, even after adjusting for factors such as age, sex, and existing health conditions. “Maintaining muscle strength throughout life—and especially in later life—is extremely important for longevity and aging independently,” lead researcher and epidemiologist Kate Duchowny said in a statement.The study authors suggest that muscle weakness contributes to higher mortality and disability rates because of its association with insulin resistance, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome. Additionally, weak individuals struggle with basic self-care and are more likely to experience disability, creating a negative feedback loop of reduced physical activity and worsening health, they explain.Low muscle mass significantly increases vulnerability to prolonged bed rest from illness or injury, leading to faster muscle degradation and slower recovery. This condition can initiate a vicious cycle of atrophy, in which decreased muscle strength leads to reduced physical activity, further exacerbating muscle loss. Andy Galpin, professor of kinesiology at California State University–Fullerton, highlighted this issue on a podcast: “Atrophy is a loss of muscle, but now because we’re weaker, we want to do less things, which makes it worse and worse, and we just spiral down. So not ever getting into that cycle is critically important.” Moreover, a 2018 review published in the Annals of Medicine underscores the clinical significance of low muscle mass across various health care settings. The review notes that low muscle mass is linked to “higher surgical and post-operative complications, longer length of hospital stay, lower physical function, and poorer quality of life.” Muscle: Boosting Survival in Cancer Patients Muscle loss in cancer patients often results from cachexia, a severe wasting syndrome associated with the disease itself, or from the side effects of chemotherapy. According to the National Cancer Institute, cachexia occurs in up to 80 percent of people with advanced cancer, and it’s thought to directly cause up to 30 percent of cancer deaths. Cachexia leads to the progressive loss of fat, skeletal muscle mass, and strength, severely affecting the patient’s quality of life and ability to tolerate treatments. Chemotherapy can exacerbate this condition by inducing fatigue and further muscle degradation, creating a cycle of decreased physical activity and worsening muscle atrophy. Maintaining muscle mass can significantly improve outcomes for cancer patients. A 2021 review published in the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity found that muscle-strengthening activities are linked to better survival rates. Specifically, those who engaged in muscle-strengthening exercises at least twice a week had a 19 percent lower risk of dying from cancer than those who did less or none. Additionally, the study noted a 26 percent lower incidence of kidney cancer among individuals who engaged in higher levels of these activities. Muscles Improve Health Span Muscles regulate hormones, reduce inflammation, and manage blood sugar levels, as the previous article in this series explained. Exercise-induced muscle contractions also promote autophagy, the body’s way of clearing out damaged cells, which helps slow aging. A 2011 study published in Autophagy confirms that autophagy is vital for maintaining muscle health and function. As we age, however, the focus shifts from merely extending life to enhancing the quality of those years. Dr. Palakodeti emphasizes the crucial distinction between lifespan and health span, the latter being the period of life spent in good health, free from chronic diseases and disabilities. Prioritizing muscle health can significantly affect our health span, allowing us to enjoy a higher quality of life as we age. Beyond physical health, strong muscles contribute to mental well-being. A 2022 study in the Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle found that lower muscle strength is associated with a higher risk of developing depression and anxiety. Specifically, a 5-kilogram decrease in handgrip strength was linked to a 7 percent increase in depression risk and an 8 percent increase in anxiety risk. Increasing Longevity Through Muscle Maintaining muscle health is one of the factors within our control that can significantly protect against the declines associated with aging. Regular strength training and proper nutrition are essential strategies for building and preserving muscle, thereby enhancing overall quality of life and reducing the risk of chronic diseases, according to Dr. Palakodeti. Proper nutrition and resistance-based strength training are crucial in preventing and slowing the progression of sarcopenia. According to a 2023 study published in Medicine (Baltimore), resistance exercise alone or combined with nutrition significantly improves muscle mass, strength, and physical function in middle-aged and elderly people. By prioritizing muscle strength and mass today, we can enjoy longer, healthier, and more independent lives tomorrow.