Believe Big > Articles by: BelieveBig

Faith, Hope, and Healing: Ben Abell’s Journey from Stage 4 Cancer to Thriving Health

December 4, 2024 Blog, Patient Story, Story of Hope Comments Off on Faith, Hope, and Healing: Ben Abell’s Journey from Stage 4 Cancer to Thriving Health

When Ben Abell was diagnosed with Stage 4 prostate cancer, his world was turned upside down. As a pastor, father, and grandfather, he had always lived a life grounded in faith and intentionality. His diagnosis, with a daunting Gleason score of 9, was a shock, but Ben’s journey to healing became a testament to resilience, prayer, and the power of integrative medicine.

A Life Redirected

Before cancer, Ben dedicated his mornings to prayer, scripture, and reflection. This foundation of faith became his anchor when he received his diagnosis. “We prayed a lot,” Ben recalls, “but we didn’t panic.” His approach was guided by Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything… And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

Exploring Integrative Care

Ben’s journey led him to Believe Big, a nonprofit organization supporting patients with integrative and complementary treatments. Through Believe Big, he learned about mistletoe therapy—a natural cancer treatment widely used in Europe. Under the care of an integrative practitioner, Ben combined this therapy with conventional treatments like radiation, tailoring a plan unique to his needs.

“Mistletoe therapy was instrumental,” Ben shares. “It stabilized my cancer and helped me through radiation. The blend of conventional and complementary medicine made all the difference.”

The Role of Faith and Community

For Ben, faith wasn’t just a comfort—it was a strategy. He surrounded himself with a community of prayer warriors, including his wife Laura and their church. “Having people walk with me gave me hope,” he says. Together, they navigated the complexities of treatment, armed with research, prayer, and unwavering support.

Lessons from the Journey

Ben’s story is a powerful reminder that healing is multifaceted. He highlights four pillars for overcoming cancer:

  1. Prayer and Community: Lean into faith and surround yourself with supportive people.
  2. Education: Learn about all available treatments—both conventional and complementary.
  3. Integrative Expertise: Work with specialists who understand the whole picture of healing.
  4. Nutrition: Focus on a diet that supports your body’s ability to heal.

Today, Ben is cancer-free and thriving. His story encourages us to seek holistic approaches, blending modern medicine with timeless faith.

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Unlocking Health Through Nutrigenomics with Alex Swanson

December 2, 2024 Blog, Nutrition Therapy, Podcast Comments Off on Unlocking Health Through Nutrigenomics with Alex Swanson

The Power of Personalized Health
In our latest Believe Big podcast episode, we dive into the transformative world of nutrigenomics with Alex Swanson, founder of Nutrition Genome. Alex shares insights on how our genetic blueprint influences our health and how personalized nutrition can empower individuals to live their healthiest lives. Here’s what we learned from our conversation.

The Roseto Effect: Health Beyond the Physical
Alex sets the stage by sharing the story behind the “Roseto Effect,” where a small community in Pennsylvania defied heart disease trends in the 1950s due to their strong communal ties. This story emphasizes the importance of emotional health, social support, and community in physical well-being—a reminder that health isn’t just about what you eat, but who you surround yourself with.

Building strong community connections can lower stress and cortisol levels, protecting overall health.

What is Nutrigenomics?
Nutrigenomics is the study of how genes influence the body’s response to food and how food, in turn, affects gene expression. It offers personalized guidance on dietary choices based on individual biochemistry, ancestry, and genetic susceptibilities.

A tailored approach to health helps individuals focus on areas where their body needs the most support.

How Nutrigenomics Empowers Families
Ivelisse shares how a Nutrition Genome test provided clarity and peace for her and her family. Knowing her genetic predispositions, like how her body processes estrogen, helped her make critical health decisions. This tool also empowered her children to take charge of their health by understanding their unique genetic strengths and weaknesses.

 “Just because I have these genetics does not determine my outcome.” – Ivelisse Page

Epigenetics: Genes Aren’t Your Destiny
Alex explains that while DNA is fixed, gene expression is influenced by lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and stress management. Nutrition Genome leverages this concept to recommend actionable changes, turning potential genetic weaknesses into strengths.

Adjusting your diet and environment can “turn off” harmful genes while activating protective ones.

Real-Life Success Stories
Alex recounts a testimonial from a cancer patient who used nutrigenomics during chemotherapy. By personalizing her nutrition, she not only thrived during treatment but also achieved long-term remission.

Consistency in following personalized health strategies is crucial for lasting success.

The Future of Nutrigenomics

The field of nutrigenomics is still young, but its potential in personalized medicine, especially for cancer patients, is immense. As research advances, nutrigenomic testing will become an even more precise and powerful tool in preventive and integrative healthcare.

Expect better computing power and deeper insights into gene-environment interactions.

 

Empower Your Health Journey
Nutrigenomics bridges the gap between genetics and lifestyle, empowering individuals to take control of their health. Whether you’re managing a condition or simply optimizing wellness, understanding your genetic story is a vital first step.

Visit Nutrition Genome to explore how nutrigenomics can transform your approach to health.

Learn more about Alex and Nutrition Genome:
https://nutritiongenome.com/about/

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Full podcast episode:

Your donations power our podcast’s mission to support cancer patients with hope, insights, and resources. Every contribution fuels our ability to uplift and empower. Join us in making a lasting impact. Donate now! 🌟

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5 Insights for Healthier Pets with Dr. Judy Jasek, Integrative Veterinarian

November 4, 2024 Blog, Podcast Comments Off on 5 Insights for Healthier Pets with Dr. Judy Jasek, Integrative Veterinarian

Keeping pets healthy goes beyond basic checkups and pet store food! In this episode of the Believe Big Podcast, Dr. Judy Jasek, an integrative veterinarian with over 35 years of experience, dives into holistic approaches to pet health that focus on nutrition, natural therapies, and reducing unnecessary medical interventions. Here are five takeaways that can help you give your pets a healthier, happier life.

  1. Good Nutrition is Key to Your Pet’s Health

“Like us, our pets are dealing with a toxic world. Feeding them fresh, balanced diets can significantly reduce their toxic load and help them fight disease.” — Dr. Jasek

Many pets suffer health problems due to processed kibble, which is loaded with carbohydrates. Dr. Jasek recommends a fresh food diet, ideally raw, to support pets’ natural health. By investing in quality food now, pet owners can help prevent costly medical issues down the line.

  1. Integrative Medicine Treats the Whole Pet, Not Just Symptoms

“Conventional medicine often addresses symptoms instead of the underlying health of the pet. Integrative care supports the body’s natural healing abilities.” — Dr. Jasek

Integrative veterinary care is all about helping the pet’s body heal itself. Dr. Jasek explains that instead of being “on the attack” against diseases with drugs and chemicals, integrative medicine supports the body’s immune system through natural remedies, like herbal medicine and homeopathy.

  1. Natural Cancer Therapies Like Mistletoe Can Improve Quality of Life

“Mistletoe therapy can help manage aggressive cancers and improve quality of life, often enhancing a pet’s appetite and comfort.” — Dr. Jasek

Dr. Jasek uses mistletoe therapy as part of her holistic approach to cancer care. This therapy helps boost pets’ energy levels and comfort, even in advanced cancer stages. Mistletoe is also easy for pet parents to administer at home, reducing stress for both the pet and the owner.

  1. Ozone Therapy for Oxygenation and Healing

“Ozone therapy oxygenates tissues and boosts immune function, creating a less favorable environment for disease.” — Dr. Jasek

For pet parents interested in taking a proactive approach, Dr. Jasek recommends ozone therapy, which oxygenates cells and boosts the immune system. This therapy is especially helpful for pets with cancer, as it can be administered easily at home using a simple kit.

  1. Finding the Right Integrative Vet for Your Pet’s Needs

“Having a vet who respects your choices and understands holistic care can make all the difference. Take time to find one before an emergency arises.” — Dr. Jasek

Not every vet will support an integrative approach. Dr. Jasek advises pet owners to visit the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association (AHVMA) website, where they can find holistic vets nearby. Meeting a potential vet beforehand can save time and stress when your pet needs immediate care.

By adopting some of these integrative practices, pet owners can help their pets live longer, healthier lives. For more insights, tune in to the full podcast with Dr. Jasek on Believe Big.

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Listening to God’s Voice in Cancer Treatment: Spiritual Guidance with Believe Big Podcast

October 28, 2024 Blog, Podcast Comments Off on Listening to God’s Voice in Cancer Treatment: Spiritual Guidance with Believe Big Podcast

Navigating cancer treatment can often feel like stepping into an unknown world, where the balance between medical care and inner healing becomes an overwhelming challenge. In our latest episode of the Believe Big podcast, we’re honored to welcome Kristi Gaultiere, a compassionate psychologist and spiritual guide, to share her journey and insights with us. Kristi joins Ivelisse Page, Believe Big’s co-founder and a resilient stage IV colon cancer survivor, to talk about her and her husband’s book, Journey of the Soul. Together, they explore how to find emotional and spiritual grounding during life’s most trying times.

Kristi and Ivelisse dive into the importance of building resilience—not just physically, but spiritually—for anyone facing a health crisis. For those moments when faith feels out of reach, Kristi shares gentle yet powerful ways to connect with God. Through “spiritual rhythms” like prayer, quiet retreats, and fasting, they explain how these practices can offer a sense of peace and purpose, even when things feel overwhelming. Many of our Believe Big listeners will find reassurance in knowing that cancer treatment doesn’t have to consume every aspect of life; it can be paired with supportive, grounding practices that help bring clarity and calm.

This episode is more than a conversation about health; it’s an invitation to listen—to God’s voice and to your own heart. Kristi’s wisdom encourages us to find strength and serenity beyond the medical journey. She also offers compassionate, practical advice on seeking God’s guidance when difficult choices arise, helping us all to take steps forward with peace and trust.

Spiritual Rhythms refer to intentional practices that help create a deeper connection with God, nurturing emotional and spiritual health. Kristi Gaultiere describes how spiritual rhythms can help people—especially those facing life challenges like cancer—by fostering peace, resilience, and a closer relationship with God. Here’s a breakdown of the spiritual rhythms discussed:

  1. Prayer as a Foundation
    Prayer is essential for spiritual health, providing a direct line to connect with God, seek guidance, and express gratitude. It reinforces trust and faith, becoming a daily anchor for one’s spiritual life.
  2. Rhythms of Solitude and Silence
    Regular moments of solitude and silence offer deep reflection and a chance to hear God’s guidance, free from life’s distractions. Solitude brings clarity, peace, and reconnection with faith.
  3. Community Support and Safe Relationships
    Alongside solitude, supportive community interactions are essential. Engaging with others who offer understanding and empathy provides mutual encouragement and helps process thoughts and emotions, strengthening the journey.
  4. Rest and Retreat for Restoration
    Rest and regular retreats—whether daily, quarterly, or annually—allow individuals to reset spiritually. Stepping away from daily routines for focused spiritual time refreshes one’s spirit and brings peace, preparing them to approach challenges with new strength.
  5. Listening to God’s Voice
    Cultivating the ability to discern God’s voice involves practicing silence, engaging with scripture, and paying attention to experiences where He might be speaking. Using a GPS approach—God’s Word, Providence, and Spirit—can help confirm that insights align with God’s guidance.
  6. Practicing Fasting for Spiritual Clarity
    Fasting, or temporarily abstaining from food or other comforts, helps shift focus to spiritual needs and strengthens prayer life. This practice reminds individuals of their dependence on God and helps deepen their relationship with Him.
  7. Lectio Divina (Sacred Reading)
    Lectio Divina is a contemplative way to read scripture that invites God to speak personally through His Word. By meditating on specific passages, individuals can gain new insights and a stronger personal connection to God’s teachings.

Each of these rhythms fosters a holistic connection with God, balancing the need for personal reflection and community support to strengthen both emotional and spiritual well-being. For those going through treatment or facing other difficult journeys, these spiritual rhythms provide ways to feel grounded, gain strength, and deepen faith.

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Nutrient-Dense Foods: Fueling Your Healing Journey

October 18, 2024 Blog, Nutrition Therapy, Webinar Comments Off on Nutrient-Dense Foods: Fueling Your Healing Journey

When it comes to cancer care and general health, one of the most powerful tools we have is food. Nutrient-dense foods, in particular, play a significant role in supporting our bodies, helping to fight off illness, and promoting healing. But what exactly are “nutrient-dense foods,” and how can they be integrated into your daily life?

What Are Nutrient-Dense Foods?

Nutrient-dense foods are those that pack a high amount of vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial compounds into every bite. These are the foods that fuel your body and nourish it at a cellular level—unlike “empty calorie” foods that might fill you up but provide little to no nutritional value. Karen Schrum, a nutrition expert, explained that nutrient-dense foods go beyond simple macronutrients like proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. They include essential vitamins, minerals, and especially phytonutrients, which are compounds in plants that support health and fight diseases like cancer.

Macronutrients vs. Micronutrients Karen broke down the differences for us during the webinar:

  • Macronutrients: These include the larger nutrients your body uses for energy, such as proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
  • Micronutrients: These are vitamins and minerals that don’t provide energy but are essential for the proper functioning of the body. They support immunity, bone health, skin integrity, and much more.

Then, we have phytonutrients, plant-based compounds with powerful healing properties, such as quercetin, found in onions, and apigenin, found in parsley and celery.

Making Healthy Swaps

When adopting nutrient-dense foods into your life, start by assessing what you’re currently eating. Are you gaining nutritional value from everything on your plate? If you’re unsure, try journaling or taking photos of your meals for a few days. Acknowledging your current habits is the first step toward making improvements.

Karen emphasized the importance of being honest about those little “BLTs”—bites, licks, and tastes of empty calories that may sneak into your diet, such as a bag of chips or a sugary snack. While these foods provide comfort, they rob your body of the nutrients it needs to fight and heal.

Simple Swaps:

  • Replace chocolate cravings with foods high in magnesium like pumpkin seeds or artichokes.
  • Craving sweets? Opt for naturally sweet fruits like berries or satisfy your body’s need for balance by incorporating whole foods rich in chromium, such as nuts and lentils.

Addressing Cravings

Interestingly, some cravings are actually signals from your body that it is missing a vital nutrient. For example, a craving for chocolate could indicate a magnesium deficiency. You can address this by including magnesium-rich foods like leafy greens, seeds, and artichokes. Karen also pointed out that many people struggle with cravings for empty calories like sugary sweets because of nutrient deficiencies. To combat these cravings, focus on nutrient-dense alternatives, and consider getting a micronutrient test to see what your body truly needs.

Nutrient-Dense Meals

To get started, here are a few nutrient-dense meal ideas:

  1. Karen’s Liver-Love Soup: Download Recipe >
    • Ingredients: celery, parsley, garlic, ginger, avocado, lemon, and bone broth.
    • This soup combines liver-supporting ingredients to help your body detoxify and heal.
  2. Tahini Salad Dressing:
    • Base: Tahini (ground sesame seeds) for healthy fats and a touch of apple cider vinegar.
    • Add olive oil for more healthy fats and lemon for a vitamin C boost.
    • The Salad dressing recipe: – 1 to 2 Tbsp of tahini – 1 to 2 Tbsp of apple cider vinegar – 1 Tbsp of olive oil – Salt to taste
  3. Phytonutrient Power Salad:
    • Combine leafy greens like spinach and kale, sautéed mushrooms, yellow onions, celery, and purple cabbage. Top with Karen’s dressing for a nutrient-packed meal that fights cancer at a cellular level.
  4. Grain Free Low Carb Bread: Download Recipe >

Why Focus on Phytonutrients?

Phytonutrients, such as quercetin in onions or luteolin in green peppers, offer powerful cancer-fighting properties. They can help induce cancer cell death (apoptosis) and inhibit the growth of new cancer cells. Simple additions to your meals, like using more garlic, celery, or herbs like basil and oregano, can significantly boost the nutrient density of your diet.

Incorporating more nutrient-dense foods into your diet can improve your overall health and support your body during and after cancer treatment. By focusing on foods rich in vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients, you can nourish your body from the inside out and give it the tools it needs to heal.

If you’re looking for more personalized guidance, consider working with a nutrition therapist who specializes in oncology. Believe Big offers grants and access to nutrition experts who can help you create a tailored eating plan to support your unique health needs​​.

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Exploring the Role of Cannabis in Oncology with Sasha Kalcheff-Korn

October 1, 2024 Blog, Podcast Comments Off on Exploring the Role of Cannabis in Oncology with Sasha Kalcheff-Korn

In this enlightening episode of the Believe Big Podcast, Ivelisse Page interviews Sasha Kalcheff-Korn, Executive Director of Realm of Caring, to delve into the role of cannabis in oncology. Sasha brings her wealth of experience in cannabis advocacy and education to shed light on how cannabis can be an effective tool for cancer patients seeking holistic and plant-based treatments.

Key Takeaways from the Episode:

1. Cannabis and Its Benefits for Cancer Patients
Sasha begins by explaining that cannabis is a plant with over 100 cannabinoids, including CBD and THC, which have a wide range of health benefits. She emphasizes that not all cannabis is the same, making it important to source high-quality, tested products. Cannabis can help alleviate cancer-related symptoms like pain, nausea, and anxiety while potentially offering anti-tumor benefits.

2. The Importance of Sourcing Credible Cannabis Products
As cannabis plants can absorb toxins from the soil, it’s crucial to find products that are third-party tested for purity. Patients should look for a Certificate of Analysis (COA) to ensure their cannabis is free from pesticides, heavy metals, and other harmful substances.

3. THC vs. CBD: Understanding the Difference
Sasha clarifies the differences between hemp-derived CBD (which contains minimal THC) and cannabis from the marijuana plant. She shares that while THC can be psychoactive, it also has significant therapeutic benefits for pain management and sleep, especially for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.

4. Research and Cannabis Use in Oncology
The conversation highlights ongoing research with Johns Hopkins University, where Realm of Caring collaborates on studies exploring how cannabis affects various health outcomes. This research aims to build a stronger scientific foundation for the medicinal use of cannabis.

5. The Role of Medical Teams and Patient Advocacy
Sasha advocates for transparency and collaboration with medical teams when incorporating cannabis into treatment plans. While not all healthcare providers are familiar with cannabis therapies, resources like Realm of Caring help bridge the gap by providing education and connecting patients with reliable products.

6. Personal Stories of Hope
Sasha shares inspiring stories of cancer patients, like one who used cannabis suppositories to manage her colon cancer and achieved remission. These real-life experiences demonstrate how cannabis can serve as an adjunct therapy to conventional cancer treatments.

Final Thoughts

The episode underscores the potential of cannabis as a complementary tool in cancer care, offering relief from treatment side effects and improving quality of life. Sasha encourages patients to do thorough research, consult with their healthcare team, and approach cannabis use with an open mind.

To learn more, listen to the full episode and explore the resources provided by Realm of Caring.

Learn more about Sasha and Realm of Caring:
https://realmofcaring.org/about/who-we-are/

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Your donations power our podcast’s mission to support cancer patients with hope, insights, and resources. Every contribution fuels our ability to uplift and empower. Join us in making a lasting impact. Donate now! 🌟

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What Is Red and Near Infrared (NIR) Light Therapy?

September 30, 2024 Blog Comments Off on What Is Red and Near Infrared (NIR) Light Therapy?

Red and near-infrared light are part of the electromagnetic spectrum, and more specifically, part of the spectrum of light emitted by the sun. These wavelengths of light are “bioactive” in humans.

Below is a chart outlining the electromagnetic spectrum:

Electromagnetic spectrum

Electromagnetic waves range from 0.0001 nanometers (gamma waves) all the way to over meters (radio waves).

If you remember high school physics, when you pass white light through a prism it separates out the different colors based on their wavelengths (ROYGBIV). Only a tiny part of this spectrum (roughly 400nm to 700nm) is actually visible to the human eye.

Visible Light Spectrum

At the highest end of the visible light spectrum is red light, which goes from a little over 600nm to approximately 700nm. Above the visible light spectrum is near-infrared (NIR) from about 700nm to a little over 1,100nm.

It is specifically these red and near-infrared wavelengths that have amazing effects on our bodies. Most research showing benefits of red light and near-infrared light have used wavelengths in the ranges of 630-680nm and 800-880nm.

There have now been literally thousands of studies done in both animals and humans. Overall, red and near infrared light have been repeatedly shown to have positive effects on cell function in animal and human studies and aid in improving a wide range of conditions.

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It’s all about PENETRATION

Most wavelengths of light (UV, blue, green, yellow, etc.) are unable to penetrate into the body – instead they stay in the layers of the skin.

However as the picture below shows, red and near-infrared light are able to penetrate deeper into the human body and are able to reach the cells, tissues, blood, nerves, into the bones and even into the brain!

 

The benefits of red light: Red light between 600-700nm offer benefits for skin texture and tone, smoothing fine lines and wrinkles, promoting collagen production and generally rejuvenating the appearance of skin and hair.

The benefits of near-infrared light: Near-infrared light (NIR) 700nm – 1100nm. penetrates deeper into the tissues to assist with wound healing, muscle recovery, nerve injury and joint pain.

 

How does Red Light Therapy Work?

Red Light Boosts Cellular Energy Production

The most well studied mechanism of action surrounding red and near infrared light therapy is increased mitochondrial energy production in the cells. Mitochondria are tiny organelles that are the energy power plants of all the cells in our body. Red and near infrared light therapy helps the mitochondria create more of that energy. (Hence our company name, Mito Red Light for MITO-chondria)

The specific photons found in red and near infrared light interact with a photoreceptors within our cells called cytochrome c oxidase. This interaction stimulates the mitochondria in our cells to use oxygen more efficiently, which allows the mitochondria to produce more ATP (adenosine triphosphate). Adenosine triphosphate is a complex organic chemical that provides energy to drive many processes in living cells, e.g. muscle contraction, nerve impulse propagation, and chemical synthesis. Found in all forms of life, ATP is often referred to as the “molecular unit of currency” of intracellular energy transfer. When our cells have more energy, they simply perform better and the body follows suit!

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The Proven Benefits of Red and Near Infrared Light Therapy

We’ll dive deeper into each of these in future articles, but the proven benefits of red and near infrared light therapy include:

  • Promotes wound healing and tissue repair
  • Supports collagen production / anti-aging
  • Reduces swelling and inflammation
  • Improves joint health
  • Improves physical performance, muscle recovery and energy levels
  • Increases melatonin / improves sleep

It is not surprising that red and near infrared light deliver such a myriad of benefits. Our evolutionary ancestors spent many hours each day outdoors receiving these beneficial wavelengths of light from the sun. Modern humans with our homes, transport and office spaces are extremely “mal-illuminated”.

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Mito Red Light devices deliver clinically relevant doses of these beneficial wavelengths of light allowing you to conveniently “supplement” those beneficial wavelengths of light through red light therapy at home.

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The Power of Fasting in Cancer Recovery

September 23, 2024 Nutrition Therapy, Webinar Comments Off on The Power of Fasting in Cancer Recovery

The Role of Fasting in Cancer Recovery: Insights from Sara Stratton In the latest Believe Big Food for Thought webinar, Sara Stratton from Remission Nutrition shared fascinating insights into the benefits of intermittent fasting, particularly for those on a cancer recovery journey. Fasting has gained attention not only for its potential health benefits in healthy individuals but also as a complementary approach for cancer patients. Sara’s expertise highlighted the science, the types of fasting, and how to tailor fasting to fit individual needs.

What Is Fasting and Why Does It Matter? Sara explained that fasting can be categorized into three primary types:

  • Circadian Rhythm Fasting: This involves eating with the natural day-night cycle, consuming food when the sun is up and avoiding it when the sun sets. It’s a simple way to align eating patterns with the body’s natural rhythms.
  • Intermittent Fasting: This type of fasting focuses on fasting for 12-18 hours a day. For example, eating dinner by 5 PM and not consuming calories until 10 AM the following day. This period of fasting can help the body switch from glucose metabolism to fat metabolism.
  • Prolonged Fasting: These fasts last from 48 to 72 hours and can be used for deeper therapeutic benefits, such as supporting cancer treatments by reducing inflammation, promoting autophagy (cell renewal), and stabilizing blood sugar.

Fasting for Cancer Recovery One of the most intriguing aspects of fasting is its potential to enhance cancer treatment. Fasting can help reduce levels of insulin and mTOR, two substances that cancer cells often rely on to grow. Additionally, fasting can make chemotherapy more effective by putting healthy cells in a “resting state” while allowing cancer cells to be more vulnerable to treatment.

Sara pointed out studies that show fasting can reduce side effects of chemotherapy, such as fatigue, nausea, and low blood counts. This means patients may be more likely to complete their chemotherapy cycles without interruption.

The Flexibility of Fasting The beauty of fasting, according to Sara, is that it’s not one-size-fits-all. The fasting protocol you choose should depend on your personal goals and bio-individuality. For example, someone undergoing cancer treatment might opt for a gentler approach, like using bone broth during a fast to maintain electrolyte balance, while others may benefit from a more aggressive fasting protocol.

Breaking the Fast After a fast, it’s important to ease back into eating carefully. Sara recommends breaking a fast with nourishing, low-carbohydrate foods to avoid a sudden spike in blood sugar. Bone broth or a smoothie with healthy fats like avocado or coconut milk can gently reintroduce nutrients to the body while maintaining steady energy levels.

The Importance of Hydration Water and electrolytes play a critical role in successful fasting. Dehydration can worsen the effects of fasting, so Sara suggests using electrolyte-rich water or adding sea salt to your water to keep your body balanced. Filtering water is also important to avoid introducing toxins during fasting periods.

 

Research Links:

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Discover the Power of Mindfulness and Meditation with Tomek Wyczesany

September 10, 2024 Blog, Podcast Comments Off on Discover the Power of Mindfulness and Meditation with Tomek Wyczesany

In the latest episode of the Believe Big podcast, Ivelisse Page speaks with mental health and mindfulness expert Tomek Wyczesany. Tomek shares his journey from academic stress to self-awareness and transformation through mindfulness. With over 20 years of meditation practice and 4 million plays on his meditations, he offers listeners practical insights on how mindfulness can improve mental and physical well-being.

Key takeaways from this episode include:

  • Know Thyself: Tomek emphasizes the ancient wisdom of self-awareness as a foundation for healing.
  • Mindfulness vs. Meditation: Understand the difference between being fully present in the moment and the deeper internal exploration that meditation offers.
  • Relaxation First: Before jumping into mindfulness or meditation, Tomek encourages starting with relaxation to ease stress and allow the body to reset.

Whether you’re on a cancer journey or seeking everyday wellness, Tomek’s advice to “be your own guide” empowers you to take control of your health.

Tune in to learn more about integrating mindfulness into your life, and how it can support your overall healing.

Learn more about Tomek on his website:
https://tomekwyczesany.com/

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Looking for a journal to expand your spiritual journey and deepen your relationship with God? Check out our new Healing Journals available now: https://store.believebig.org/nourishing-the-soul-healing-journal/

Your donations power our podcast’s mission to support cancer patients with hope, insights, and resources. Every contribution fuels our ability to uplift and empower. Join us in making a lasting impact. Donate now! 🌟

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The Power of Hydrogen Water: Enhancing Your Health One Sip at a Time

September 3, 2024 Affiliates, Blog Comments Off on The Power of Hydrogen Water: Enhancing Your Health One Sip at a Time

In our quest for better health, we often hear about the importance of drinking water. It’s essential, life-giving, and absolutely irreplaceable. But what if we told you that there’s a way to make your water even more beneficial for your health? Enter hydrogen water—a simple twist on your daily hydration routine that could bring about some impressive health benefits.

What is Hydrogen Water?
Hydrogen water is simply water that has been infused with molecular hydrogen (H2). This tiny molecule, which is the most abundant element in the universe, is added to your regular H2O, potentially boosting its health benefits. While it might sound like a new trend, hydrogen water has been popular in Japan for over 50 years, and its popularity is now spreading worldwide.

Why Consider Hydrogen Water?
At first glance, hydrogen water looks, tastes, and feels like regular water. However, proponents claim that this enhanced version of water could offer a range of health benefits, from increasing your energy levels to reducing inflammation, and even acting as a powerful antioxidant.

 

Let’s take a closer look at some of the potential benefits of drinking hydrogen water:

 

  1. Powerful Antioxidant Properties
    Our bodies are constantly under attack from free radicals—unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to aging and diseases like cancer. Antioxidants help neutralize these harmful molecules. Hydrogen water, with its potent antioxidant properties, may provide an extra layer of protection against oxidative stress and free radical damage.

 

  1. Reducing Inflammation
    Chronic inflammation is a silent contributor to a host of health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders. Studies suggest that hydrogen water might help combat inflammation, offering relief from conditions like arthritis and even aiding in the prevention of certain inflammatory diseases.

 

  1. Enhancing Brain Health
    Hydrogen water’s potential extends to protecting your brain as well. Research on animals indicates that it may help prevent cognitive decline by protecting against oxidative damage in the brain. This could be especially beneficial for those at risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

 

  1. Supporting Heart Health
    Your heart might also benefit from a hydrogen boost. Early research indicates that hydrogen-rich water could improve recovery following a heart attack by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. Regular consumption may even help prevent heart-related issues before they start.

 

  1. Aiding in Cancer Treatment
    While more research is needed, some studies suggest that hydrogen water might have a role in cancer treatment. In particular, it has been shown to improve the quality of life for patients undergoing radiation therapy by reducing the oxidative stress caused by the treatment.

 

  1. Boosting Metabolism and Fighting Fatigue
    Hydrogen water may also give your metabolism a boost, making it easier to manage your weight and energy levels. Some studies indicate that it could help regulate glucose and lipid metabolism, which is especially beneficial for individuals with metabolic disorders like type 2 diabetes.

 

  1. Supporting Bone and Muscle Health
    Maintaining strong bones and muscles is crucial, especially as we age. The antioxidant properties of hydrogen water may support bone density and muscle strength, helping to prevent conditions like osteoporosis and muscle atrophy.

 

How to Get Started with Hydrogen Water
Ready to give hydrogen water a try? There are a few ways you can incorporate it into your daily routine:

  • Pre-Made Hydrogen Water: You can find bottled hydrogen water at health food stores and online. It’s a convenient option, though it can be a bit pricey.
  • Hydrogen Water Tablets: These dissolve in your regular water, making it easy to turn your everyday hydration into a health-boosting beverage.
  • Hydrogen Water Machines: For a more sustainable option, consider investing in a machine that infuses your water with hydrogen. While the upfront cost is higher, it’s a long-term solution for enjoying hydrogen water whenever you want.

If you’re looking for a trusted source, we recommend checking out Echo Hydrogen Water. Their products are designed to deliver the benefits of hydrogen water conveniently and effectively. Learn more >

 

Hydrogen water is more than just a trendy health product—it’s backed by emerging science that suggests it may offer a wide range of benefits, from reducing inflammation to protecting against serious diseases. While more research is needed, the current findings are promising, making hydrogen water a worthy addition to your wellness routine.

 

Have you tried hydrogen water? What benefits have you noticed? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

 

View the research available here to learn more: https://hydrogenstudies.com

 

Disclaimer: The content provided in this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new health regimen.

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