health article

Early to Burn? Morning Exercisers Have Longer, Harder Routines

2009-07-07T08:24:00.002+07:00

Health magazine
Turns out that the time you exercise is as important as the moves you do—and mornings get top marks. Researchers at Bangor University in the United Kingdom found that people exercise longer and harder in the a.m., possibly because that’s when they feel more alert and energetic.

That’s good to know because higher-intensity workouts make it easier to burn calories and tone your body. Don’t do mornings? Fit in some exercise right after work.

Fanning the flame
Here's welcome news: You may have inherited your mom's slow-mo metabolism, but you’re not stuck with it. New research shows you can trick your body into burning calories more efficiently, especially if you hit the gym. By strength-training just a couple of times a week, for example, you’ll reverse 50% of the seemingly inevitable metabolism slow-down that comes with age, says Gary Hunter, PhD, a professor of human studies at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. So take control of your metabolism by making these boosters part of your routine—and (finally) stop sweating every cookie.
Kick it up a notch

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The next time you run, swim, or even walk, ramp up the intensity for 30-second intervals, returning to your normal speed afterward. Using this strategy will help you consume more oxygen and make your cell powerhouses, the mitochondria, work harder to burn energy, explains Mark Hyman, MD, an integrative and functional medicine specialist in private practice in Lenox, Massachusetts, and author of Ultrametabolism: The Simple Plan for Automatic Weight Loss. "You increase the number of mitochondria and how efficiently they burn throughout the day," he explains.This way, you can exercise for less time than it takes to plod along at the same pace and still get great results.

Here's how to do it: Exercise for 5 minutes at 3.5 mph. Increase your speed to 4 mph for 60 seconds. Then go back down to 3.5 mph for 90 seconds. Repeat the entire sequence 5 times, twice a week. (To get a more challenging workout, increase the incline or your pace.)

Get your omega-3's

Why does eating lots of fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, herring, and tuna) help amp up metabolism? Omega-3s balance blood sugar and reduce inflammation, helping to regulate metabolism. They may also reduce resistance to the hormone leptin, which researchers have linked to how fast fat is burned. A study in Obesity Research found rats that ingested large doses of fish oil while exercising lost weight. Take omega-3 fatty acid supplements; Hyman recommends 1,000 to 2,000 milligrams per day. Hate the fishy after-burp? Try flaxseed oil, walnuts, or eggs fortified with omega-3s. Or check out supplements (by brands such as Nordic Naturals) that have no fishy taste.

Make some muscle

Not only does muscle weigh more than fat, but it uses more energy, too. The average woman in her 30s who strength-trains 30 to 40 minutes twice a week for four months will increase her resting metabolism by 100 calories a day. That means you’re resetting your thermostat to keep running at that rate even on the days when you don't make it to the gym, Hunter explains.

Turn to (green) tea

Green tea has long been heralded for its antioxidant polyphenols. But new evidence shows the active ingredient, catechin, may crank up metabolism. Researchers conducted a series of studies in dieters and found that those who went green lost more weight than those who didn't, suggesting that catechins may improve fat oxidation and thermogenesis, your body's production of energy, or heat, from digestion. But how much do you have to drink? According to one study, if you drink five eight-ounce cups of green tea a day, you can increase your energy expenditure by 90 calories a day. Sounds like a lot of tea, but it's not hard to do if you also drink it iced.

Don't slash those calories

It's one of the most frustrating realities of dieting—if you cut out too many calories, your metabolism thinks times are lean and puts the breaks on fat-burning to conserve energy, Hunter explains. Here’s the trick to keeping your metabolism revved up while dieting: Eat enough calories to at least match your resting metabolic rate (what you'd burn if you stayed in bed all day; calculate yours here). That's about 1,330 calories for a 5-feet-4-inch, 150-pound, 40-year-old woman.

Enjoy the afterburn

Exercise is a gift to yourself that keeps on giving. In a phenomenon known as excess postexercise oxygen consumption (EPOC), your body can take hours to recover from a robust workout (one intense enough that you can't hold a conversation) and return to its previous resting metabolic rate. The windfall: Your body is actually burning more calories than it normally would—even after you've finished exercising. There’s a catch, though. The better shape you're in, the less benefit you'll get, because your fit body replenishes its energy stores efficiently. You can improve your burn by increasing how often or how hard you work out (think intervals), suggests Walt Thompson, PhD, professor of kinesiology and health and nutrition at Georgia State University.

Get started in the a.m.

Make sure you eat breakfast. Eating a nutrient-rich morning meal (like oatmeal with almonds and berries, or a spinach-and-feta omelet with a slice of whole-grain toast) shortly after getting out of bed literally wakes up your metabolism. "Eating breakfast gets the engine going and keeps it going," Hyman explains. It's hard to argue with these results: According to the National Weight Control Registry (an ongoing study that tracks 5,000 people who lost an average of 66 pounds and kept it off more than five years), 78% of those who keep it off eat an a.m. meal every day.

Go ahead and graze

Noshing throughout the day is a proven strategy to help you curb hunger and eat fewer calories overall. Now, experts are promoting nibbling versus gorging as a way to keep metabolism running by holding blood sugar levels steady and preventing weight-gain-promoting insulin spikes. Enjoying six small meals a day should do the trick; keep them around 300 calories each, or divide your usual day's calories by six.

Trim the trans fat

You’ve heard they're bad for you. But trans fats also slow down your body's ability to burn fat. "They have an altered shape and make your biochemistry run funny," Hyman says, explaining that trans fat binds to fat and liver cells and slows metabolism. Eating trans fat can also lead to insulin resistance and inflammation, both of which cripple metabolism and can cause weight gain.

Go organic

If you’re on the fence about whether to buy organic, this news may sway you: Fruits, vegetables, and grains grown without pesticides keep your fat-burning system running at full-tilt because they don’t expose your thyroid to toxins, Hyman says. Nonorganic produce, on the other hand, “blocks your metabolism mainly by interfering with your thyroid, which is your body’s thermostat and determines how fast it runs,” he explains.

Think protein

Your body digests protein more slowly than fat or carbs, so you feel full longer (this is especially true when you have it for breakfast). Plus, it may also give your metabolism a bump. In a process called thermogenesis, your body uses about 10% of its calorie intake for digestion. So, because it takes longer to burn protein than carbs or fat, your body expends more energy absorbing the nutrients in a high-protein diet. Another bonus: One recent study from Purdue University found that diets higher in protein may help preserve lean body mass, which is the best fat-burner of all.

One Week to a Slimmer You: Focus on the Little Things

2009-07-07T07:53:00.005+07:00

by Carey Rossi

When it comes to losing weight, the little things add up—trying just one new thing every day can quickly make a big difference. With that in mind, we’ve taken science’s best weight-loss strategies and created a week’s worth of slimming to-do’s.

Sunday: Shoot it, and shed pounds.
Studies show that recording meals may help you lose up to 5% of your weight, says Robert A. Carels, PhD, an associate professor in the psychology department at Bowling Green State University. Start today: Snap before and after photos of each meal with your camera phone. Keeping a visual food diary is a more accurate way to see what and how much you’re eating, United Kingdom researchers say. Afterward, download the pics so you’ll have a record.

Monday: Pop a vitamin to kill hunger.
Taking a daily multivitamin may make you less hungry, two studies in the British Journal of Nutrition suggest; people who take one tend to weigh less and have lower BMIs.

Start today: Pop a multi with at least 100% of the RDA for vitamins included in the studies: chromium, copper, folic acid, iodine, manganese, molybdenum, niacin, pantothenic acid, riboflavin, thiamin, vitamins B6 and B12, and zinc.

Tuesday: Speed up to burn more calories.
Strength-training circuit-style torches more calories than the traditional way, says Jim Stoppani, PhD, author of the Encyclopedia of Muscle and Strength. Research shows that the shorter the rest period between sets, the more calories you blast off. “In addition,” Stoppani says, “doing a whole-body workout employs more muscle, which in turn burns more fat.”

Start today: Turn your usual strength-training routine into a circuit by doing one set of 15 reps for each exercise with no rest in between; wait 20 seconds and repeat the circuit twice.

Wednesday: Triple your C and burn more fat.
Regularly consuming 500 milligrams or more of vitamin C may help you burn 30% more fat while working out, according to research in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition.

Start today: Eat at least three servings of vitamin C–rich whole foods like citrus fruits, broccoli, and cantaloupe. Try this to knock a couple servings off: “Pack a vitamin C–rich, easy-to-transport snack, such as a mix of baby carrots, sugar snap peas, and cherry tomatoes,” suggests Debra Wein, RD, the president of Wellness Workdays, in Hingham, Mass.

Thursday: Have a gab session and drop pounds faster.
Not only can an exercise buddy help you show up for your workouts, but she can also help you melt fat faster too, says Tim Lohman, PhD, a professor emeritus at the University of Arizona, in Tucson, and an expert on the connection between exercise and body composition.

Start today: Create your own weight-loss network. “The buddy system works best when you can turn to someone you’re already friends with,” Lohman says. Meet at least once a week (even if it’s in cyberspace) to discuss obstacles and celebrate successes.

Friday: Color yourself slim.
An apple a day will do more than keep the doctor away—it’ll keep pounds off too. Filling up with a range of fruits and vegetables is an easy way to cut your calorie load, a recent study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests.

Start today: “Follow the rainbow,” Wein suggests. “Do your best to eat from all of the color groups during the day.” Add blueberries to your cereal, snack on apples, and load your lunchtime salad with carrots, tomatoes, and peppers.

Saturday: Inhale and conquer cravings.
When we’re stressed we tend to look for quick-fix calories. “Yogic breathing offsets this. When you’re relaxed, you don’t have as much hunger pain,” says Ralph LaForge, an exercise physiologist in the endocrine department of the Duke University Medical Center. “People make better food choices when they’re relaxed.”

Start today: When hunger strikes, try this exercise from Kristen Eykel, creator of the DVD series, Yoga Emergency: The 12-Minute Workout. Rest your right thumb near your right nostril, ring finger and pinky by your left nostril. Close the left side and inhale through the right for four counts, then close your right nostril and hold for four counts. Open your left nostril and exhale through that side for four counts. Repeat cycle again on other side; continue alternating for at least a minute. You’ll relax in no time—and may even forget about that cookie you longed for.

health magazine

I Survived the Master Cleanse—Then Gained All the Weight Back

2009-07-07T07:29:00.004+07:00

By Carolyn Hsu
Last summer I voluntarily chose to stop eating for 10 days. I gave up solid foods as part of the Master Cleanse.

At 5’6”, I couldn’t budge my scale from around 140, no matter how many times I tried South Beach or Slim-Fast (and yes, I realize my desire to lose was more about vanity than health). A colleague told me he’d permanently shed 20 lbs. on the Master Cleanse, a very controversial liquid diet that helped Beyoncé quickly slim down for her role in Dreamgirls. The no-solid-food rule sounded a little scary, but the thought of losing 10 lbs. fast was too tempting to resist. So I started poking around the Internet and found a surprising number of Master Cleanse tips—some useful (always stay near a bathroom) and some not (rub your belly to rid it of toxins).

I was ready to spend 10 days ingesting nothing but homemade lemonade. Here’s what happened:

Day 1: Every day I was supposed to guzzle 16 oz. of salt water in the morning, and sip a mug of hot laxative tea before bed. According to Google, this was supposed to eliminate years of waste accumulated in my body. That’s basically a fancy way of describing water-like diarrhea and killer stomachaches.

Day 2: I wasn’t as hungry as I expected to be and even felt more energized than normal. But that night I went to the movies and could smell my friend eating gummy worms two seats away. I had to sit on my hands so I didn’t reach over and steal some.

Day 3: Wanting to burn some extra calories, I spent the day walking around the city. Since you’re not eating anything on the cleanse, you’re not supposed to exercise—and I soon found out why. Feeling faint, I had to sit down on more than a few benches on my way home. “Are you insane?” my friend texted me mid-rest, begging me to stop.

Day 4: I woke up weighing 135—I’d finally broken my 140 plateau! Seeing the scale go down was exhilarating and addicting.

Day 5: Socially, it was an awkward week to cleanse. My colleagues and I were taking our new manager to lunch, and an old college professor wanted to have dinner. My new coworker asked if I wasn’t feeling well when I ordered a measly bowl of egg drop soup at a Chinese restaurant. Embarrassed by my no-solid-food streak, I faked an upset stomach.

That night my professor picked a steakhouse. After just two bites of steak and some asparagus, I realized there’s a reason you’re not supposed to eat solid foods while consuming all that laxative tea.

Day 6: I easily buttoned up a pair of skinny jeans that last fit when I was 18. I spent the majority of the day collecting recommendations for reputable tailors and vowing to do the cleanse seasonally.

Day 7: My tongue turned white a couple of days ago, which my Internet research said was normal. However, I wasn’t sure why it was normal because I’d never bothered to buy the Master Cleanse manual. I wasn’t supposed to stop cleansing until it returned to its normal color, which generally happens on Day 7. But it hadn’t changed yet, so it didn’t look like I was going back to eating anytime soon.

Day 8: Many people on the Master Cleanse claim that by Day 8, they wake up feeling like a new person. I woke up feeling very moody and uncomfortable. Whoever said that Day 8 is enlightenment needs to be enlightened. My weight hadn’t changed and I was ready to eat my own hand.

Day 9: The scale didn’t budge again and my tongue was still white. Was I on a Master Cleanse plateau? I changed my mind about doing this four times per year.

Day 10: Sitting on my couch at 11 p.m., counting down the minutes until midnight, I looked down and noticed that my thighs had turned to jelly. While I’d lost weight all over—and had finally shed my tummy rolls—I hadn’t expected to lose so much muscle mass.

At 12:01 a.m., I gobbled down some chocolate chip cookies, even though my tongue was still white. Ten days is the recommended minimum for cleansing—some people can go up to 40 days—but since I wasn’t losing any more weight, it no longer seemed worth it.

The aftermath
While I managed to maintain my 10 lb. weight loss for a few months, it wasn’t long before I started indulging in foie gras and chocolate cake again—and regained all the weight. I never forgot the thrill of losing so many pounds so fast, so I attempted the Master Cleanse again a few months later. But three days in, I realized that I was going down a dangerous path, and I quit.

Still, short-term fasting can be a safe way to get back to healthy eating habits. But instead of lemon and maple syrup, I bought a juicer. After a really indulgent week, I stick with freshly made fruit and vegetable juices for a day or two.

I also made an appointment with a nutritionist to get my yo-yo dieting under control. Keri Glassman, RD, the owner of Nutritious Life, a nutrition counseling practice in New York City, has seen more than a few clients try multiple fad diets only to regain the weight, too. I now follow her simple rules:

I eat when I start to get hungry and stop before I feel full.
I plan most of my meals in advance to make the healthiest choices possible.
I’m not perfect, but I cut down on the amount of processed foods, artificial sweeteners, alcohol, and caffeine in my diet.
It’s not a quick fix—and my progress takes a lot longer to show up on the scale—but it’s infinitely better than limiting myself to spicy lemonade.

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7 Healthy Ways to Get Away Without Leaving Home

2009-07-06T23:22:00.006+07:00

7 Ways to Have a Healthy, Money-Saving Staycation

A recent poll found that one-third of Americans are skipping summer vacation this year, but a little escape can boost your health. So how do you create a healthy getaway surrounded by the same old distractions? Read our experts' top tips. Full Story

A Sweet (and Healthy!) Summer Sip Try this antioxidant-rich sangria
How a Weight-Loss Editor Survives a Family BBQ Avoid fat traps with these simple tips
Green Guide to Home Cleaning Banish dirt and bacteria with these all-natural products

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Lymphoma - Is it a Cancer of the Lymph Nodes?

2009-06-07T09:20:00.001+07:00

Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system. The lymph nodes are found in various places around the body. There are multiple areas of the lymphatic system that can become cancerous. The area of the lymphatic system that is primarily affected will determine to a great extent, both the treatment and survival rate are determined by where in the body the cancerous cells are located and if they will be able to spread to other areas of the body.

The lymphatic system is made up of lymph nodes, lymphocyte cells, bone marrow of the thymus and long bones, the spleen, tonsils and adenoids as well as the lymph.

Other cancers can also start within the lymph nodes such as breast cancer. However breast cancer symptoms are not the same as lymphoma blood cancers.

The most common of blood cancer types is lymphoma. Many people confused lymphoma with leukemia, another type of blood cancer. Although they are both blood cancer diseases, they are not the same. About 56% of all patients affected with blood cancer have lymphoma

Hodgkin's lymphoma is named after Thomas Hodgkin. Mr. Hodgkin discovered this disease in 1832. There are two types of lymphoma named after Thomas Hodgkin. Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Lymphoma starts when the white blood cells, called lymphocytes, progressively multiply as a result of malignant changes within the lymph nodes and other areas in the body. They begin to grow in large numbers, pushing out healthy cells. This is what leads to the formation of tumors in the lymph nodes. Other areas affected can be the spleen and thymus and so forth.

Lymphoma can originate in the blood and bone marrow as well as the lymph nodes or lymphatic tissues, which are present in the stomach or intestines. From the bone marrow it can spread to many other parts of the body. While it is true that leukemia can spread from the bone marrow to the blood and lymph nodes, lymphoma is very different from leukemia. Lymphoma is the sixth most common cancer in men and the fifth most prevalent caner among women in the US.

There are two major types of Leukemia: myelogenous and lymphocytic. There are acute and chronic forms of each of these types. Although a great deal of information can be found both on-line and offline about lymphoma, it is always best to seek out medical care if you have any suspicious symptoms. Sadly, there are many different types of cancers. There are several types that affect the blood. Blood cancers that in the bone marrow are not to be confused with bone cancer.

It is always best for anyone that may suspect they have some type of health issues, regardless of the type, to discuss it with their doctor.

Kimberly Shannon enjoys helping people through her research of a variety of subjects, including lymphoma and other diseases along with treatment options and medical breakthroughs.

My Experience With Hairy Cell Leukemia

2009-06-07T09:19:00.001+07:00

Being told I had leukemia was a shock and I don't mind admitting I burst into tears in the Consultants Office.

For me and my family, the most important thing was to get the treatment needed to fight this cancer of the blood. I hadn't been well for about eighteen months before the diagnosis, I felt very tired and unfit.

During a lovely holiday in Bermuda, I started to feel as though I had got the flu coming on and I had to go to see my doctor when I arrived home in England because by this time I couldn't breath very well. I had actually got legionnaires disease - which to put it simply meant that I had pneumonia, the TB I had as a child showed up on my X rays, and I was very ill for 6 weeks. I was taking 8 different antibiotics daily to fight this off.

Interestingly, my husband was fine - no symptoms at all - I realise now that my white blood cells were already being attached by the cancer and this in turn brought my immune system down.

It was over a year after getting legionnaires that I knew something was wrong because I found I needed to go to bed in the afternoon due to fatigue - I had only to knock myself lightly and I would have a big black bruise.

After visiting my doctor again, who referred me to the local hospital, where tests were done which included blood tests and a sample of my bone marrow was extracted from my hip bone - not a ery pleasant experience I have to say,the diagnosis came in that I had hairy cell leukemia, it's called that because the tumors look like they are covered in tiny hairs under the microscope.

The chemotherapy was simple - basically the chemicals needed to kill off the cancer cells are fed into you intravenously - I firstly had a liquid injected prior to the chemo, this was to stop me from being sick - thank goodness it worked. I was also lucky that my hair did not come out in clumps - I had severe dandruff but that was all.

I had to have 5 two hour chemo sessions Monday to Friday and I felt very weak by the last session, I was given some needles to inject myself with, these contained a solution described by the doctor as Fertiliser for White Cells. I did the injections and found I was getting rather a lot of discomfort in the hip and thigh bones - this was caused by the injections as the solution was stimulating my bone marrow and aiding the clean new white cells to grow (sorry I cannot explain it in more medical terminology) and that was what caused the discomfort. It was a small price to pay to get my blood clean again.

I have been very lucky, my sort of leukemia is treatable and as long as infections are avoided after and during the chemo, a full recovery after 6 months is perfectly achievable.

I have been in remission now for three years, visit my consultant every six months and he says my blood is very healthy, so I thank god for that and of course the medical profession who are just fantastic.

I am now officially retired as I am aged 62 years but I have just bought a franchise selling web sites, please feel free to look http://www.web2riches.co.uk

MDS Blood - How MDS Affects the Blood

2009-06-07T07:26:00.001+07:00

MDS or Myelodysplastic Syndromes, formerly known as pre-leukemia, are defined as a group of diseases in which the production of all types of blood cells is disrupted. The body of the person with MDS is no longer producing enough number of normal and healthy red blood cells, white blood cells or platelets.

The bone marrow normally produces 'blasts' or unformed cells that naturally form into red or white red blood cells or platelets. But the bone marrow of MDS patients produces blasts in abnormally large number but only a few blood cells develop properly.

Therefore, the term pre-leukemia is totally misleading because only a minority of MDS patients develop leukemia. Leukemia is the disorder in which white blood cells are produced in excessive amount.

The causes of MDS are still largely unknown despite the continuous efforts of researchers and scientists in this area. MDS is also believed to be the root cause of several types of cancer. Although the causes have not been definitively found, there are case studies that lead doctors to link MDS to prolonged exposures of a patient to toxic chemicals, particularly to benzene, and also close contact to radiation and strong pesticides. Since these instances are caused by environmental factors, doctors call such cases either treatment-related MDS or secondary MDS.

Some of the common symptoms of MDS are: anemia, abnormally pale skin and unexplained exhaustion (when red blood cell count is very low); and frequent infections, chronic fever, uncontrolled bleeding, and bruises easily (when white blood count is very low).

According to medical reports, anemia is the most common form of Myelodysplastic Syndromes.

A Personal Account of Stem Cell Donation

2009-05-06T09:08:00.000+07:00

We hear a lot these days about stem cell research, but many of us are unaware of what exactly stem cells are and what can be done with them. There are several types of stem cells including adult stem cells and embryonic stem cells. Adult stem cells reside throughout the human body within tissue, blood and organs; they are plentiful and readily available. Adult stem cells refers to the stage or maturity of the stem cell. They are also found in the tissues of the umbilical cord (after live birth), spinal cord, fat, bone marrow, dental pulp, nasal cavity, brain, peripheral blood, blood vessels, skeletal muscle, skin, cornea, digestive system, retina, liver, and pancreas.

Peripheral stem cell transplantation is the process of removing the stem cells from one person and donating them to a recipient- in my case it was my brother. In most cases donors are siblings since tissue type is most identical to the patient's own. After it had been determined that I was a perfect match for my brother, I had a physical and endless blood work. I passed my tests and then it was on to phase one.

This involved six days of receiving neupogen shots which stimulate the release of stem cells from the bone marrow into my blood so they can be harvested for my brother. It's important during this period to drink plenty of water. I had decided to go to the hospital each day for the shots, but some people opt to inject themselves at home. The shots sting a bit and after the first several days, mild bone aches began- mostly in my hip and sternum. It was nothing that an occasional tylenol couldn't remedy.

On the fifth day, I reported to the hospital first thing in the morning and was prepped for the apheresis or the harvesting of my stem cells. I was connected to a centrifuge machine: one line brought the blood out from one arm into the machine where the blood was separated and the stem cells were collected into a bag. My blood, minus the stem cells, then returned to me in another arm. During the procedure, an anticoagulant was going through my system to prevent clotting and calcium was also given. Aside from the discomfort of being in bed and unable to move around for 6 or 7 hours, it was not painful or unpleasant.

Unfortunately, the first harvest did not capture enough stem cells for my brother- this is determined by patient weight, so I returned to the hospital the following morning to repeat the procedure. I had been worried about side effects from the Neupogen as well as the apheresis, but the only side effect was several days of fatigue.

My advice to anyone contemplating a peripheral stem cell procedure is to learn as much as you can in advance. Ask questions of the doctors and nurses who are caring for your loved one and who are working with you. The procedure is much less painful than bone marrow aspiration. Most of us are squeamish when it comes to the subject of blood, but the more you understand what is going on, the less nervous you will be.

Oprah's Acai Berry For Cancer - Top Health and Natural Benefits to Help Leukemia and Other Ailments

2009-05-06T09:06:00.000+07:00

There is no known cure for cancer yet but in efforts to find a cure, a hope for one was found. In a recent study conducted by the researchers of University of Florida, it was discovered that 86% of the laboratory-cultured cancer cells self-destructed when administered with acai berry extracts. This is among the first studies which aimed to analyze the fruit's potency in countering the development and effects of cancer cells. However, this in-vitro study is limited only to leukemia cells. Apart from this, nothing else is known in the relationship between acai berry and cancer.

The results of the study were promising. However, it should be clearly emphasized that the compounds extracted from the acai berry are not sufficient to provide a cure yet.

Instead, they only showed that leukemia cells can be triggered to initiate self-destruction. Nonetheless, most compounds tested in laboratory settings often demonstrate desirable results when tested on actual human bodies. It should also be noted that the same experiment was conducted with other fruits that have certain antioxidants. Most of these fruits have shown remarkable effects.

As of the moment, it is unclear whether or not the same result will happen to cancer cells in the body when introduced with the extracts because there are several factors that may impede the same effect such as biochemical processes. But this problem will be soon answered because the same team of researchers is currently looking into the response of cancer cells towards acai berry compounds on human trials.

Acai berry may not be the cure for cancer but hopes are high and the possibilities are encouraging. Further discoveries on the effects of it on cancer cells are still in the open. Maybe in time, more conclusive evidences regarding the link between Oprah's acai berry and cancer may be found.

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Do this with Oprah's Dynamic Duo of Acai Berry & Colon Cleanse by Clicking Here Now!

Acai Berry is the #1 "Super Food" because it has so many different elements that help your body, so you can't go wrong with Acai Berries & Colon Cleansing.

MDS Leukemia - Living With the Disease

2009-05-06T09:03:00.000+07:00

MDS (or Myelodysplastic Syndromes) generally refer to a group of blood cancers. Other types of MDS are non-progressive and may have no definite effect on the patient's health. While other sub-types are slow-progressive and may be related to leukemia, which will definitely have serious effects on one's health and life expectancy.

Myleodysplastic syndromes typically affect the cell-forming activities in the bone marrow. These cells are normally developed into mature red or white blood cells and platelets before they flow out to bloodstream. Myleodysplastic syndromes prevent blood cell formation. When blast cells in the bone marrow and blood are significantly higher, but dying before or after release into the bloodstream; the non-functional cells will continuously build-up inside the bone marrow. These abnormal activities of the blood cells may develop into a disease called MDS Leukemia.

In many cases, myleodysplastic syndromes will worsen into a type of leukemia - MDS Leukemia. When blast cell occurrence is in low proportions, doctors refer to the disorder as MDS. When there are higher proportions, the condition has worsened into a cancerous stage and is referred as MDS Leukemia. Thus, MDS and Leukemia are often joined together and have same methods of treatment.

The number of new cases of MDS in the United States is unknown. However, medical reports shown that the number of MDS cases is equivalent to the number of patients suffering from acute myelogenous leukemia (AML). Around 12,000 people were diagnosed with AML in 2006.

AML is incurable and often found in patients 60 years of age and above; but less common in children.

David Austin is an Attorney focused on complex injury cases. You can learn more about MDS Leukemia at his website. Burke-Eisner.com

Umbilical Cord Blood to Extract Stem Cells

2009-05-05T16:50:00.000+07:00

It is postulated that volume reduction of umbilical cord blood units in albumin or dextran before infusion into patients results in improved cell viability. In order to get the best stem cells possible, it is best to take them in the umbilical cord blood. They can then be stored in a cord blood bank or stem cell bank for the best cord blood collection.

This is based on an in vitro study, which showed that the stem cell viability could actually be improved by volume reducing the umbilical cord blood units before infusion to restore the osmolarity of the suspension.

It was suggested that this process could protect the stem cells from the severe osmotic stress associated with infusion of cells suspended in medium with high concentrations of dimethyl-sulfoxide.

Neutrophils were the major cell population affected by the in vitro incubation whereas mononuclear cells that include the pluripotent stem cells were relatively resistant to the in vitro toxic effects of dimethyl-sulfoxide.

By reducing the volumes of both dimethyl-sulfoxide and cell lysis products, washing may also decrease the adverse reactions associated with the infusion of cryo preserved units.

However, volume reducing grafts after thawing can reduce the number of hematopoietic stem cells infused into the patients because of cell loss during manipulation.

Many studies have shown that infusing a high nucleated cell dose is a good prognostic factor for both engraftment and survival in umbilical cord blood transplantation. It is known that the number of cells infused during transplantation is one log less than in a standard allogeneic bone marrow transplant.

In addition, the manipulation may cause qualitative changes in the product that may affect engraftment. The slow engraftment because of the limited number of hematopoietic stem cells available in a single unit of umbilical cord blood may contribute to high peritransplant mortality and limit the success of umbilical cord blood transplant especially in adult patients.

Therefore, any process that may result in hematopoietic stem cells loss or adversely affect hematopoietic stem cells viability, that is, manipulation, should be avoided especially in umbilical cord blood units with low number of hematopoietic stem cells.

An earlier study observed delayed neutrophil recovery in three patients receiving unmanipulated umbilical cord blood. However, these patients received Methotrexate that impacts on hematopoietic recovery.

It was found that the hematopoietic recovery and survival of the recipients of unmanipulated umbilical cord blood were comparable to those of volume reduced umbilical cord blood.

The author works for a stem cell bank and cord blood bank. They specialize in stem cell.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Wayne_Channon

MDS Syndrome - The Truth About the Disease

2009-05-05T16:46:00.000+07:00

One of the least known cancer forms is called Myelodysplastic Syndromes (MDS). This is also formerly known as 'pre-leukemia' but not anymore because the term is misleading.

With MDS, the bone marrow is hyperactive but does not produce the normal number of healthy blood cells in the bloodstream. When the disorder in the production of blood cells continued, the different types of blood cells will have an abnormal count and the bone marrow will begin to deteriorate. The MDS patient will have low or high amount of any or all of these blood cells (red, white, and platelet).

Although MDS syndrome can be genetic, particularly in children who develop the cancer, there are also environmental factors that have been known to cause abnormalities in healthy cells, creating cancer-causing ones. One known carcinogen is linked to MDS. This organic chemical is called benzene. It is found in gasoline, synthetic rubber, dyes, and plastics. The chemical is still used even when there are available alternative substances. People who had ingested, inhaled, and handled benzene over an extended period of time often acquired MDS.

According to medical reports, only one-third of patients get worse after MDS diagnosis. Their condition often progresses to Acute Myelogenous Leukemia (AML).

MDS syndrome is rare in children and very young people. Early detection of the disease is also rare. When the body lacks a normal count of healthy blood cells, symptoms will start to appear.

A person may be suffering from MDS when he or she had these symptoms:

Fatigue
Always breathless
Abnormal paleness of the skin
Uncontrolled bleeding
Easily bruised
Petechiae
Weight loss
Infections

If you were suffering from one or all the symptoms listed above, discuss your case with an experienced attorney.

Lymphoma - Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

2009-05-04T18:49:00.000+07:00

Lymphoma is a type of blood cancer that affects the lymphocyte cells that play a role in the immune system, and primarily represents cells involved in the lymphatic system of the body. Lymphomas are of two types: Hodgkin lymphoma, which develops from abnormal B lymphocyte cells; and Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, which develops from either abnormal B or T lymphocyte cells, and is distinguished by unique genetic markers. There are five sub-types of Hodgkin lymphoma and about 30 sub-types of Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Old age; infections; medical conditions which compromise the immune system; exposure to toxic chemicals; and a family history, are risk factors for this condition. Common symptoms include painless and enlarged lymph nodes, spleen enlargement, fever, chills, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, tiredness and itching. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy and biological therapy are the standard line of treatment for this condition.

The Ayurvedic treatment of lymphoma is aimed at treating the tumor and improving the immune status of the body. Kanchnaar-Guggulu, Triphala-Guggulu, Panch-Tikta-Ghrut-Guggulu and Punarnavadi-Guggulu are used in high doses in this condition. The herbal medicines, Kanchnaar (Bauhinia variegata) and Manjishtha (Rubia cordifolia), form the main stay of treatment for this condition, and these medicines too are used in high doses for prolonged periods. In addition, medicines like Indrayav (Holharrhina antidysentrica), Patol (Tricosanthe dioica), Kutki (Picrorrhiza kurroa), Saariva (Hemidesmus indicus), Patha (Cissampelos pareira) and Musta (Cyperus rotundus) are used, which act on the blood and lymphoid tissue. Triphala (Three fruits), which comprises of Amalaki (Emblica officinalis), Haritaki (Terminalia chebula) and Behada (Terminalia bellerica); and Trikatu (Three pungent herbs), which comprises of Sunthi (Zinziber officinalis), Marich (Piper nigrum) and Pippali (Piper longum) are also very useful in this condition.

Hemgarbha-Ras, Bruhat-Vat-Chintamani-Ras, Suvarna-Malini-Vasant, Abhrak-Bhasma, Heerak-Bhasma, Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and Bhrungraj (Eclipta alba) are used to improve the immune status of the body and reduce the lymphoma cells.

When combined with modern therapy, Ayurvedic treatment can reduce symptoms, reduce the side effects of conventional treatment, improve the immune status of the body, improve quality of life, and prolong survival. Prolonged treatment is required to get significant therapeutic results, and courses of treatment may need to be repeated in order to prevent relapses. All patients need to be under the regular care and supervision of an Oncology team.

Dr. A. A. Mundewadi is Chief Ayurvedic Physician at Mundewadi Ayurvedic Clinic based at Thane, Maharashtra, India. He is available as an online Ayurvedic Consultant at http://www.ayurvedaphysician.com The online clinic offers Ayurvedic treatment for all chronic and refractory health problems. Dr. A. A. Mundewadi uses high quality herbal extracts in tablet form, which are easy to take, effective and safe for long-term use.

Dr. A. A. Mundewadi, B.A.M.S., has clinical experience of 23 years and clinical research experience of 9 years. He has conducted extensive research in HIV infection, Schizophrenia and many other chronic diseases.

Support Groups and Counseling For Leukemia Patients

2009-05-04T18:48:00.000+07:00

If you are suffering from leukemia, you will have to face many new challenges. These challenges will also be there for your family and close friends. You may worry about how the disease will affect your ability to live a normal life, take care of your family, work, leisure activities and friendships.

It is common for many leukemia patients to get depressed and anxious after being diagnosed with the disease. Some people get angry and resentful about their condition, while others feel helpless and overwhelmed.

However, support groups and counseling can work wonders for leukemia patients. Just talking about their concerns, worries and feelings can make them feel better. There are some patients who rather suffer alone than burden their family with their worries and concerns. These patients can benefit a lot just by talking to a neutral person, who can be a professional counselor, social worker or a clergyman.

Most leukemia patients are immensely helped just by talking to others who have the same disease. They realize that they are not alone and there are many other people like them. They figure out that most people also have the same worries and concerns like they do and this helps to ease a lot of stress and anxiety. Many support groups gradually involve the family so that family members can understand and cope with the disease. Usually the medical center where you are getting treated will be able to guide you to a leukemia support group. Or else, you can write to the American Cancer Society or check out their website to find a group in your city.

Risks Linked to Leukemia

2009-05-04T18:46:00.000+07:00

While all the causes of leukemia are still not known, there are risks that have been linked to the development of various types of leukemia. There have been both environmental as well as genetic factors that have shown up as links to leukemia.

The type of leukemia a person has usually depends on the type of abnormal white blood cells that are being produced in the body. Leukemia produces abnormal or immature white blood cells in the bone marrow. At an early development of white blood cells, a blast is the immature form of white blood cells. This is the stage between the stem cell in the bone marrow and the mature blood. Blasts (immature blood cells) are found in limited numbers in the bone marrow of healthy people and not at all in the blood stream. People with leukemia may have high numbers of blasts in the bone marrow and even circulating throughout the circulatory system.

The different types of leukemia are grouped as acute or chronic. An acute leukemia usually produces immature white blood cells that are non-functioning. These cells rapidly reproduce and crowd out the healthy cells. A chronic leukemia produces abnormal blood cells that don't function as well as normal blood cells. These forms of leukemia are slower acting on the body than the acute forms of leukemia.

Acute myelogenous leukemia (AML) is most common in adults and causes the rapid development of immature white blood cells in the bone marrow crowding out normal cells and spreading these no-functioning cells throughout the body. This interferes in usual work of the normal blood cells. Chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) causes an increased unregulated growth of myeloid cells in the bone marrow and an elevated amount of white blood cells in the blood. Severe anemia is a result of this overabundance of white cells.

Acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL) is most common among children under the age of fifteen. In this leukemia the rapid multiplying of malignant immature white blood cells crowds out normal white cells. This type of leukemia responds well to treatment if it is diagnosed in time. In chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) a defective white blood cell is produced in overabundance. This cell does not fight infection and crowds out the healthy cells. Often the chronic lymphocytic leukemia is only discovered after a blood test when the elevated white blood cell count is found.

Some of the risk factors that researchers have identified include high doses of radiation, long-term chemical exposure in the work place, cigarette smoking, and agricultural chemicals. High doses of radiation such as around the failed nuclear reactor at Chernobyl or military exposure during the nuclear detonations in the 1950's show a strong link to leukemia. Exposure to benzene, herbicides and pesticides have been linked to acute leukemia.

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia has been linked to exposure to agricultural chemicals as has exposure to Agent Orange. Cigarette smoking seems to have an important link to acute leukemia. This is probably due to the chemicals such as benzene, polonium-210 and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Certain chemotherapy drugs especially alkylating agents combined with ionizing radiation may produce leukemia. Some diseases caused by abnormal chromosomes may increase the risk of leukemia. Philadelphia chromosome is a specific chromosomal abnormality in which parts of two chromosomes swap places. This can lead to acute myelogenous leukemia.

How to Prevent Leukemia

2009-05-03T16:46:00.000+07:00

Leukemia is actually a very tricky disease that may be very hard to diagnose at early stages, but there are certain cautionary measures that can be undertaken to prevent the disease. These measures will also have to do with changes in one's lifestyle. People are actually advised to avoid exposing themselves to herbicides, insecticides and other chemicals to reduce the risks of contacting the disease.

Medics have also argued that Leukemia, in some cases, may be in the genes of a particular bloodline. If there is a history of Leukemia in one's lineage, there is a high chance of striking a member of the same lineage. It is also necessary to see a doctor for check-up if one notices exaggerated weight loss. Medics also argue that people who exercise regularly have low chances of developing the leukemia.

Though prevention of Leukemia is hard, diet can contribute greatly to its appearance. Societies where junk and fatty foods are not in common have reduced chances of experiencing Leukemia prevalence. If a person has been experiencing some disorders of blood, chances are higher that he may also be at risk of contracting Leukemia. It is thus necessary that such a person seeks medical advice as early as possible.

Any chronic health condition may be very hard to bear, and most people have a problem when asked to see a doctor quite often, especially when they are not sick. Leukemia is a disease that Prevention from its penetration or adverse effects is possible, only when the condition is detected early.

Effective Leukemia Treatment

2009-05-03T16:45:00.000+07:00

Leukemia leads to a reduction of white blood cells in the body system. Leukemia can thus be treated by way of ensuring that the body increases the White blood cells count. Leukemia can also be treated just by use of the same methods as used to treat cancer.

Chemotherapy is one such way, though this may take too much time. In fact, treatment using this method can take a period of not less than two years. Another way of treating the condition is by fixing the bone marrow problem. This method is expensive and is done in very few countries since it involves use of sophisticated instruments and highly experienced medics.

Replacement of the infected bone marrow with a healthy one is what it entails. A radiation therapy is also recommended though this has to go hand in hand with chemotherapy. Radiation entails giving doses of x-ray for a couple of months.

In cases where there is overproduction of White blood cells, there may be some blood infections. This may lead to blood disorders, and hence become necessary to use antibiotics to fight the problem.

If leukemia is at early stages, one can prolong survival with active immunotherapy. This is however still being experimented, as it is reported by Leukemia Society of America. Leukemia is actually a chronic problem and its treatment is not a matter of a short duration of time. Patience is thus of paramount importance. Cases of complete eradication using the above mentioned methods have been reported worldwide.

What Are the Causes of Leukemia?

2009-05-03T16:43:00.000+07:00

Leukemia is a form of cancer. Statistics show us that the disease is common with men, and the chances are higher in developed countries, and particularly with white people. In the United States alone, close to 30,000 cases of adults and about 2,000 children are diagnosed annually with Leukemia.

One major cause attributed to Leukemia is exposure to high energy radiations. During the World War 2 atomic bomb explosions left an indelible mark in the mentioned prone areas.

Leukemia is also apparent in the above mentioned society because of the intense exposure to low-energy radiations. This may be due from electromagnetic fields such as power lines and electric appliances e.g. electric blankets.

Certain toxic chemicals have also been identified to cause Leukemia. These include benzene and formaldehyde. It has also been noted that if one is exposed to some chemotherapy drugs used to treat other cancers, the chances of contacting Leukemia are made higher.

Certain genetic conditions are also likely to make one develop the condition of Leukemia. It has been said that cancer is reported in certain families. This is attributable to genetics. Sometimes children who have Down syndrome conditions have higher chances of getting Leukemia.

Research is still being done to explain the causes of Leukemia. From the research findings, Men are more prone to cancer than women. Some societies have associated the disease with supernatural causes. Though science is not concerned with speculations and matters of spirit, the disease will continue receiving attention from researchers and it is likely that the mystery will soon be solved.

The Lymph System and Cancer

2009-05-02T15:49:00.000+07:00

The lymphatic, or lymph, system of the body is the main portion of the body devoted to fighting off infections and staving off disease. The system works through a network of vein-like vessels as well as clusters of organs known as the lymph nodes. The entire lymph system is important for immunity but also plays a role in cancer.

Unlike the blood stream, the lymph system has a dual role in cancer cases. Not only is it important for fighting off the disease by producing white blood cells and a variety of other important devices in a body's attempt to kill off the cells, but it also is one of the most common ways for cancer to spread to the other areas and organs of the body through metastasis. The bloodstream plays a role in metastasis but not in the first.

Cancer can start in the lymphatic system. When this occurs, it is known as lymphoma. When cancer doesn't start in the lymphatic system, like breast cancer, lung cancer, or pancreatic cancer, the cancer cells of that type or location can spread or metastasize through the lymph system quite easily. Once the cells make their way into the lymph system, it is much harder not only to fight the original source but also to completely cure a person.

Fortunately, the lymph system gives an individual some warnings signs that there may be a tumor somewhere in the body. The biggest clue is that the lymph nodes are enlarged. While this may not seem like a big clue, there are lymph nodes located close to the surface in the neck which can be felt without any real expertise.

Enlarged lymph nodes may also be a sign that cancer has started somewhere and spread to the lymph system. The cells in a tumor are bent on total domination and so easily break off from a tumor. They then are easily picked up by the lymph and are then able to go anywhere in the body. Breast cancer, which is a commonly spread cancer, is able to set up colonies throughout the body by its easy access to the lymph nodes located in the arm pits as well as under the sternum.

If a person notices that his or her lymph nodes are swollen, it is somewhat easy to determine if they are swollen due to cancer. A simple biopsy will determine if they are swollen due to an illness in the body or if they are swollen due to cancer.

The mesothelioma attorneys of Williams Kherkher realize the difficulty of detecting mesothelioma at an early stage and so have familiarized themselves with the stages and progression of the disease.

Joseph Devine

Leukemia Treatment Failure - Are There Alternatives?

2009-05-02T15:47:00.000+07:00

I just read the story of a young man in England who is dying of leukemia. He has been through chemotherapy and radiation therapy twice. He has also had a bone marrow transplant. He has suffered through the side effects of the new bone marrow attacking his body. He has been on steroids and other drugs.

His cancer returned despite all of the treatment. He lost his girlfriend, he lost his job and he lost his flat and moved in with his parents. He is dying. He really believes that he will die.

I want to be very respectful and gentle because dying is a serious topic. However, what if there were alternatives that may help? I cannot speak for you, but it seems to me that if modern mainstream medicine failed me, I would turn to alternative medicine.

What about the work of Renee Caisse and her Essiac formula? What about the work of a German biochemist named Johanna Budwig? What about the excellent book: How To Fight Cancer and Win?

What about the work of Bernie Siegal - a cancer surgeon who found another way? There are people who have defeated cancer.

Again, I don't mean to make light of a situation as serious as cancer or leukemia. But, is it prudent to except the fact that one is incurable because a few doctors following the protocals of allopathic medicine thought there was no hope? Stories abound of people who have successfully defeated their cancer or have been in remission so long that you might as well say they won the fight.

Here are some more things to explore: What about juicing wheat grass and vegetables. What about macrobiotic diets. What about...? The list is long.

Since cancer is a serious disease, don't take any chances. What I wrote here was for information and entertainment only. I certainly do not intend to provide advice, diagnosis or treatment suggestions for cancer. If you have or think you have any type of health condition at all, visit your doctor for advice, diagnosis and treatment. The USFDA certainly hasn't evaluated any of the thoughts in this article, nor are they likely to if they continue to follow the trend of their history. Natural treatments are often ignored and not scientifically investigated. There is no one paying for such research.

When all else fails, what do you have to lose by trying? Next, learn more about natural cancer treatments through the links below.

David Snape is the author of the book: What You Should Know about Gum Disease and enjoys writng about health, fitness and wellness topics. He also practices an excellent form of meditation called Falun Dafa - which he believes everyone should experience for themselves.

Basic Facts About Lymphoma

2009-05-02T15:46:00.000+07:00

Lymphoma is a type of cancer that occurs in our lymphatic system. Lymphatic system is a network of small vessels and tissues spaces that circulates fluid called lymph throughout the body. Our lymphatic system consists of organs, ducts, bone marrow, spleen, tonsils and lymph nodes.

Lymphoma usually originates in the lymph nodes located all around the body, but they can also develop around lymph tissue that does not form distinct nodes. When lymph cancer develops in lymph nodes or lymph tissues, cells in the lymphatic system replicates abnormally.

Lymphomas are grouped into two major categories: Hodgkin's disease (HD) and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL).Hodgkin's disease tends to origin from lymph nodes and is found most commonly in younger adults while non-Hodgkin's disease can spread beyond the lymphatic system and occurs mostly in middle aged or elderly people.. These two major types of lymphoma are further divided into several subtypes. Diagnosis of lymphoma is usually done by biopsy of lymph nodes.

Lymph nodes affected by lymphoma appear prominently enlarged and disfigured. They may be stiff and have appearance similar to that of fish flesh. In extremely rare cases they are rock hard and they may show areas of cellular deaths (necrosis). Patients with lymphoma may have painless swellings of lymph nodes in the neck, underarm and/or groin. Some patients, especially those with Hodgkin's disease shows symptoms such as fever, night sweats, malaise fatigue, weight loss and itchy skin.

The treatment of lymphoma depends on the type of lymphoma diagnosed and also on the stage of the cancer, its location, the extent of symptoms and the physical condition and health of the patients. Radiotherapy is a preferred treatment for patients with both types of lymphoma. The other treatment options include chemotherapy, bone marrow or stem cell transplants, radio immunotherapy or biologic therapy.

Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma - What Increases Your Risk?

2009-05-02T15:43:00.000+07:00

Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) is diverse group of cancers of lymphatic system which is part of human immune system. The lymphatic system includes lymph vessels, lymph nodes, lymph, tonsils, thymus and spleen. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is most commonly detected in older adults in the age groups of 60s and 70s.

There are no known causes for development of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma however medical experts believe that disorders in immune system and older age may increase your chance of having the disease. Research is going on all the time to try to find out other causes that led to the development of this disease.

The following risk factors may increase your chance of acquiring this disease:

Being Male: Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is more common in males than in women.

Age: Though NHL can occur at any age but risk increases as ones age progresses. It is most commonly found in people above 60 years of age.

Past cancer treatment: Past cancer treatment can affect your risk of NHL two-fold. Some chemotherapy drugs can increase your risk of getting NHL 10 to 15 years after treatment. Having radiotherapy in the past also increases your risk of acquiring NHL.

Weakened immune system: NHL is most commonly found in those people whose immune system does not work properly. These include HIV and AIDS patients. It also occurs among those people who take medicines that impair the immune system following an organ transplant.

Viral infection: Infection with virus called 'Human T cell Lymphoma virus 1 (HTLV1), hepatitis's C, and Epstein-Barr Virus increase the risk of developing NHL.

Bacterial infection: The bacteria called "Helicobacter pylori" increases the risk of Lymphoma called MALT (mucosa associated lymphoid tissue) lymphoma. This type of lymphoma is usually located in stomach lining.

Environmental Exposure: Exposure to insecticide and pesticide, solvents, rubber processing, asbestos, arsenic, nuclear waste and fertilizers increases the risk of developing NHL.

Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Defeated With PH Balance and Nutritional Therapy

2009-05-01T22:08:00.000+07:00

As a person diagnosed with CLL (chronic lymphocytic leukemia) since 2001, I've had my eyes trained on Google Alerts and on the web in general, regularly looking for breakthroughs, both conventionally and in the alternative medicine arena. Many people who are diagnosed with CLL are told to hold off on any treatment, as the disease often progresses slowly, and any improvement with treatment is not permanent. Worse yet, the course and aggressiveness of the disease can change at any time. Patients are told to "watch and wait." This is not a happy way to live.

No role models. The sad truth is that, until this past January 2009, I could find no reference (not one) of any person who was cured of CLL through any kind of traditional medical -- or alternative -- therapy. The only exception are those who have been cured by way of a bone marrow transplant (BMT). Unfortunately, many people do not survive the procedure. It is extremely risky. Worse yet, a patient can survive the BMT and still have CLL, or develop CLL again at a later date.

The five-year time-line. Despite all the research and trials, there is still no conventionally-sanctioned therapy (chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, etc.), short of BMT, that can effect a cure. Doctors give patients the hope for a complete remission of five years with some of the available therapies. Not all patients achieve complete remission in the first round of chemotherapy. And the chance of success, measured by five-year survival, decreases with each new form of conventional therapy. Not an encouraging picture. This situation has been evident to me since 2001, when I was forty-six and first diagnosed. Who wants to hear about a five-year life plan when you're forty-six? Not me! While there have been some promising conventional "breakthroughs," the survival rate remains pretty much the same today.

The search for an alternative. My search for an alternative treatment, or treatment protocol, has been equally difficult. I have been able to find testimony on the web of leukemia patients who have become cancer-free (acute myelogenous leukemia or acute lymphocytic leukemia), but no such luck for CLL. At best, there were stories of people who had held off their CLL with the controversial laetrile (apricot seed extract). But no one with CLL had become cancer free. I was discouraged, but I never gave up the search, or my attempt to discover a blueprint to good health.

The 2009 breakthrough. In January of this year, my Google Alerts revealed an article written by Steve Freier, a man with CLL who recovered to full cancer-free health. He regained his health by having his root canals removed and also by taking coral calcium. Because of his experience, I am in the process now of having all my mercury amalgams replaced with safer porcelain fillings. To find information about his recovery, type "Steve Freier" and "CLL" into Google.

Breakthrough #2. In April 2009, while searching for information about infrared saunas and its effect on leukemia, my husband came across this website: http://www.CLLDefeated.com. It is the story of Hessel Baartse, of Adelaide, Australia. He has totally defeated his CLL by means of removing his root canals and mercury amalgams, and by drastically altering his diet and supplementation, with a concentration on restoring his pH levels to a healthy balance. He credits his dentist, www.ericdavisdental.com for his complete recovery.

There are finally role models for CLL recovery. What used to be a complete mystery now is a challenge with a blueprint for success. There are now at least two cases of men who have beat the odds and defeated their CLL by means of mercury amalgam and root canal removal, nutritional therapy, and pH balance. The further good news is that this program is likely a blueprint to health for people with many other chronic health issues, including cancers.

The future. Because of the Internet and the speed with which we can share information, more people will be able to find a way to recover their good health through alternative means.

D. Rodgers is a writer from Michigan, whose web site, http://www.EMFDamage.com, explains the link between dangerous levels of electromagnetic fields and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).

More people live with paralysis than doctors knew

2009-04-22T16:45:00.000+07:00

WASHINGTON – Roughly one in 50 Americans has some degree of paralysis, and five times more people than doctors thought are living with a spinal-cord injury — nearly 1.3 million — says a startling study released Tuesday.

It's a largely hidden population that neither the government nor medical organizations had ever attempted to fully count, and the findings promise to help health authorities understand the scope of need.

"Paralysis is not rare," said Dr. Edwin Trevathan, disabilities chief at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which helped design the study. "These data demand that we recommit ... to help this population."

"Those are startling, startling numbers," said Rep. Jim Langevin, D-R.I., who has a spinal-cord injury himself and urged more investment in not just medical research but transportation, job opportunities and other day-to-day needs of the paralyzed.

The report found that overall, almost 5.6 million people have some degree of paralysis due to a variety of neurologic problems. Stroke and spinal-cord injury are the leading causes, but they also include multiple sclerosis, brain injuries, birth defects, surgical complications and a list of other ailments.

That's about 30 percent higher than previous estimates. But for spinal-cord injury alone, previous estimates were woeful — suggesting just a quarter million people were living with the trauma, a count that mostly included people like the late actor Christopher Reeve, who wound up at specialty treatment centers.

How could so many people have been missed? Partly, people are living much longer with paralysis, said CDC's Trevathan.

And they're now starting to face the added complications of aging on top of a disability.

"There's no road map for somebody like me," said Alan T. Brown of Hollywood, Fla., who broke his neck 21 years ago, just before his 21st birthday.

From a youth spent in wheelchair marathons, he's entering middle age suddenly needing more care, like an electric wheelchair instead of a manual. He's getting more infections, 17 urinary-tract infections last year alone. That's on top of the extra hurdles to arrange routine care, like a colonoscopy.

"This is finally going to open up people's lives to see what we live with," he said Tuesday.

For the new study, funded by the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, University of New Mexico researchers designed a survey of 33,000 U.S. households to measure the full gamut of paralysis — how many people either cannot move or have difficulty moving an extremity.

The study paints a sobering picture of the cycle of paralysis and poverty. Sixty percent of people with paralysis have annual household incomes of less than $25,000. Worse, about a quarter report household incomes below $10,000, compared with 7 percent of the U.S. population, the study found.

Patients often lose their jobs, and caregiving needs can cost a spouse a job, too, ending employer-provided insurance. Treatment, including the physical therapy that can improve independence and sometimes movement, is costly. There are income limits to qualify for Medicaid, and cash-strapped states are limiting coverage.

The Reeve foundation plans to use the findings to push for health policy changes, including ending a federal requirement that disabled workers wait 24 months before getting health care through Medicare. Also on its target list: insurance policies that forbid $400 air cushions for wheelchairs until someone's already suffered a pressure-caused skin ulcer that can require a $75,000 hospital stay.

Florida's Brown knows he's lucky, able to pursue a lucrative public relations career and be a mentor to other spinal-cord patients despite being mostly paralyzed from the chest down. Before his injury, he had a private insurance policy that lasted until recently. Now, he said, he's paying tens of thousands of dollars yearly out-of-pocket, and worries about how his wife and two young sons will cope if he ever has to quit working.

"I thought I was bigger than the chair. I finally realized the chair is bigger than me," Brown said.

___

On the Net:

Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation:

http://www.christopherreeve.org/

Mayo Clinic backs new personal health record site

2009-04-22T16:43:00.001+07:00

SEATTLE - The Mayo Clinic has combined its medical expertise with Microsoft Corp.'s technology in a free Web site launching Tuesday that will let people store personal health and medical information.

The Mayo Clinic Health Manager, as the site is called, is one of many emerging services for so-called personal health records. The sites, from companies such as Microsoft and Google Inc. and major health insurers, are meant to give people an easy way to stash medical information and transfer it to a new clinic, hospital or specialist. But those providers aren't necessarily ready for such an electronic revolution, which for now means it takes some work on the patient's part to set up and maintain the records.

The Mayo Clinic Health Manager uses Microsoft's HealthVault system to store medical histories, test results, immunization files and other records from doctors' offices and hospital visits, along with data from home devices like heart rate monitors.

Anyone can sign up for an account, not just Mayo Clinic patients. Users can give access to different slices of their health information to doctors and family members as the need arises.

The site prompts people to get started by answering questions about their family medical history and current and past health problems, allergies and medications. Based on that information plus age, gender and other factors, the site recommends additional tasks — scheduling a mammogram, for instance — and articles for further reading.

People can add contact details for doctors, pharmacies and insurance companies and set reminders for upcoming appointments.

Dr. Sidna Tulledge-Scheitel, an internist and medical director of global products and services at Mayo Clinic, hopes the site will help people better manage chronic conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure at home. Tulledge-Scheitel said that without a system like Health Manager, she has to hope a refrigerator magnet suffices to remind asthma patients to regularly perform some self-diagnostic exams. The site would remind them to do it monthly. (The system doesn't send e-mail reminders for privacy reasons, so the patient has to be in the habit of logging on to the site frequently.)

Advocates of electronic medical records say the technology is more cost-effective than paper files and reduces medical errors. But the rollout has been slow, which is why the federal stimulus package this year included incentives for doctors and hospitals to adopt electronic health records.

In the health care system of the future, sites like Mayo Clinic's might connect seamlessly with pharmacies, hospitals and doctors' offices to update records. Today, however, while Microsoft's HealthVault system can connect to some pharmacies, insurance companies and providers, most doctors have yet to invest in an electronic system. For patients, that means typing the results of surgeries, lab tests and other information into the Health Manager themselves.

Privacy advocates urge people who want to set up a personal health record online to read the fine print. Deven McGraw, director of the health privacy project at the Washington-based Center for Democracy and Technology, said sites like the Mayo Clinic Health Manager aren't currently covered by national laws that specify cases in which health care systems can access and share information without patients' consent.

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On the Net:

http://www.mayoclinic.com