Top Cancer-Fighting Foods: Highlights from Our Nutrition Webinar

The recent session in our “Food for Thought” series focused on the topic “Top Cancer-Fighting Foods,” a subject chosen by popular demand. Our expert, Paula Weinberger, shared invaluable insights on how certain foods can play a crucial role in cancer prevention and treatment. Here’s a summary of the key points discussed:

Green Tea

Green tea is a powerhouse when it comes to fighting cancer. It contains polyphenols, particularly catechins like EGCG, which have been shown to inhibit cancer growth. Paula emphasized the importance of choosing organic tea and provided tips for brewing to maximize health benefits. She also highlighted that while green tea is beneficial, it’s essential for patients undergoing chemotherapy to check for potential interactions with their treatment.

Cruciferous Vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables, including broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts, are packed with glucosinolates that support detoxification and help prevent cancer. Paula recommended consuming them raw or lightly steamed to preserve their nutrients. She also introduced broccoli sprouts, which contain up to 100 times more glucosinolates than mature broccoli.

Garlic and the Allium Family

Garlic, onions, shallots, and leeks are known for their sulfur-containing phytochemicals, which have potent anti-cancer properties. Paula advised allowing chopped garlic to rest for 10 minutes before cooking to activate its cancer-fighting compound, allicin. She also noted that garlic powder does not contain allicin and should not be relied upon for these benefits.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms, particularly medicinal varieties like reishi and maitake, offer a range of health benefits. They stimulate the immune system, promote apoptosis (cancer cell death), and inhibit angiogenesis (growth of new blood vessels in tumors). Paula suggested consuming a variety of mushrooms and considering dried or powdered forms from trusted sources like Mountain Rose Herbs.

Practical Tips and Synergies

Paula concluded with practical tips for integrating these foods into daily diets and highlighted the synergistic effects of combining certain foods, such as turmeric with black pepper, to enhance their cancer-fighting properties.

This webinar provided a wealth of information and actionable steps for integrating cancer-fighting foods into your diet. Stay tuned for more sessions and resources from our “Food for Thought” series, and remember, you have the power to make choices that support your health journey.

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7 Soul Care Principles to Transform Your Life

Are you ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and inner healing? Dive into these seven transformative soul care principles that will revolutionize your perspective and lead you to a deeper understanding of yourself and your relationship with God.

  1. Identity: Building a Firm Foundation
    Discover the power of your beliefs about yourself. Understand how a faulty foundation can lead to cracks in your soul. Learn from personal experiences how shifting your focus from changing others to changing yourself can bring about profound growth.
  2. Repentance: Embracing Good News
    Explore the true meaning of repentance and its role in realigning yourself with God. Understand how repentance is not about condemnation but about restoration and experiencing the refreshing flow of God’s life.
  3. Overcoming Shame: Walking in the Light
    Recognize the difference between shame and unconfessed sin. Learn how shame affects our identity and relationships. Discover the power of vulnerability and authentic community in breaking free from the grip of shame.
  4. Embracing Forgiveness: Unlocking Freedom
    Understand the liberating power of forgiveness, both receiving and extending it. Experience the healing journey of letting go of bitterness and resentment, embracing freedom and wholeness.
  5. Renewing the Mind: Transforming Thoughts
    Explore the connection between thoughts, feelings, and actions. Learn practical steps to identify and challenge negative thought patterns, replacing them with truth and life-giving beliefs.
  6. Living in Surrender: Trusting God’s Plan
    Explore the beauty of surrendering control and trusting in God’s sovereignty. Learn to let go of fear and anxiety, finding peace in surrendering to God’s perfect plan for your life.
  7. Cultivating Gratitude: Nurturing Joy
    Discover the transformative power of gratitude in shifting perspective and cultivating joy. Practice gratitude as a daily discipline, unlocking the abundance of blessings in every moment.

Embark on a journey of self-discovery and inner healing with these seven soul care principles. Transform your life from the inside out and experience the abundant life God has designed for you.

Start your journey today! 🌟Listen to the full episode below with Dr. Rob Reimer:

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 Truth About Sparkling Water and Health: What Cancer Patients Need to Know

When it comes to staying hydrated, many of us reach for sparkling water. It’s refreshing, often delicious, and can be a fun alternative to plain water. However, recent reports about popular seltzer brands containing high levels of PFAS chemicals have raised significant health concerns.

PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are often referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment and the human body. These substances have been linked to various health issues, including fertility problems, thyroid issues, cancer, and liver damage. They are found in everyday items like waterproof clothing, non-stick cookware, food packaging, and even dental floss.


*Chart from food babe IG 

Despite alarming findings reported in 2021, regulation of PFAS chemicals has been slow. Although the EPA has recently started requiring utility companies to filter out PFAS, these limits are not yet enforced for sparkling water brands.

Environmental advocate and actor Mark Ruffalo has been vocal about the need for stricter regulations, highlighting the industry’s financial motivations for maintaining the status quo. As consumers, it’s crucial to stay informed and choose products that prioritize our health.

For cancer patients, selecting the right sparkling water can be especially important. Here are some brands that have taken significant steps to ensure their products are safe and free from harmful chemicals:

Spindrift
Highlights: Spindrift is a standout for its low PFAS levels (0.19 ppt). Each can lists the real fruit used for flavoring, offering varieties like grapefruit, mango, and the refreshing Nojito flavor (mint and lime). View on amazon.

Sound
Highlights: Sound is one of the few brands reporting zero PFAS levels. Their unique flavors, such as lemon with thyme and white tea, and rose with lime and hibiscus tea, offer a delightful change from the norm. View online.

Waterloo
Highlights: With BPA-free cans and ultra-filtered regional water, Waterloo is a favorite. Each can is sold within 500 miles of its source, emphasizing eco-consciousness alongside taste. View on amazon.

Mountain Valley
Highlights: Known for its non-detectable PFAS levels, Mountain Valley rigorously tests and monitors its sources. Their sparkling water is known for its crisp, satisfying carbonation. View on amazon.

Proud Source
Highlights: Proud Source commits to transparency with annual water quality reports and packages their mineral-rich water in recyclable aluminum bottles, which keep water cooler longer. View on amazon.

Nixie
Highlights: Nixie uses USDA organic ingredients without artificial additives, ensuring pure, flavorful water. Their reverse osmosis filtration effectively removes PFAS chemicals. View on amazon.

San Pellegrino
Highlights: A classic favorite, San Pellegrino maintains low PFAS levels (0.31 ppt). Their Essenza cans offer Mediterranean-inspired flavors that enhance any mocktail. View on amazon.

Aura Bora
Highlights: Filtered through reverse osmosis and free from citric acid, Aura Bora offers unique flavors like mango chili and tangerine blossom in recyclable cans. View on amazon.

DIY Sparkling Water
Highlights: Home sparkling water makers like Sodastream and Ninja Thirsti provide control over water quality and bubble levels. Using charcoal and reverse osmosis filters ensures the cleanest water possible.

 

Insights from Jess Kelley of the Oncology Nutrition Institute

In a recent podcast episode with Jess Kelley, founder of the Oncology Nutrition Institute, we delved deeper into the importance of hydration for cancer patients. Jess shared invaluable insights on maintaining proper hydration and the critical role it plays in overall health.

Key Takeaways from the Podcast:

Hydration is Crucial: Jess emphasized that water is the “master nutrient,” essential for nearly every biochemical reaction in the body. Proper hydration can significantly impact energy levels, cognitive function, and overall well-being.

Signs of Dehydration: Common signs include fatigue, hunger, mood changes, headaches, and constipation. Jess pointed out that even a 2% loss in hydration can impair physical and mental functions.

Water Quality Matters: It’s not just about drinking enough water but also about ensuring its quality. Jess recommended using reliable filtration systems like reverse osmosis to remove contaminants, including PFAS chemicals.

Balancing Hydration Sources: While sparkling water can be a refreshing treat, Jess advised that the majority of your daily water intake should come from non-carbonated sources. This helps ensure optimal hydration and reduces the risk of mild headaches or other issues associated with carbonated beverages.

Electrolyte Balance: For those engaged in intense physical activity or undergoing treatment that affects hydration levels, adding electrolytes can be beneficial. Jess highlighted brands like LMNT and Trace Minerals for their low-sugar, high-quality electrolyte options.

Practical Tips:

  • Start your day with flat water to replenish overnight losses.
  • Use herbal teas or infuse water with natural flavors to make it more appealing.
  • Monitor your hydration status with at-home urine test strips to ensure you’re staying adequately hydrated.

By integrating these insights and choosing the right sparkling water brands, you can support your health and hydration needs effectively. For more detailed information, listen to our full podcast episode with Jess Kelley.

 

FAQs to Ask Your Oncologist About Diet and Lifestyle Changes

  • What dietary changes can support my treatment and recovery?
  • Are there specific foods or beverages I should avoid?
  • How can I safely integrate complementary therapies, like mistletoe therapy, into my treatment plan?
  • What lifestyle changes can help improve my overall well-being during and after treatment?
  • How can I ensure open communication with my healthcare team about incorporating alternative treatments?

These questions can help you explore all available treatment options and ensure that your approach to care is comprehensive and well-informed. Listen to the podcast below to learn more about water.

 

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! 🌟

 

Source links:
https://www.delish.com/food-news/g44663876/sparkling-water-brands-pfas-chemicals/

https://www.delish.com/food-news/a44566150/pfas-chemicals-sparkling-water-explained/

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Exploring the Foundations of Biological Dentistry

Biological dentistry, also known as holistic or integrative dentistry, is a branch of dental medicine that recognizes the interconnectedness of oral health with the overall well-being of the body.

Dr. Veronique Desaulniers, a pioneer in holistic health and founder of Breast Cancer Conqueror, sheds light on the principles and practices of biological dentistry, particularly in relation to breast cancer prevention and healing.

Here are some key points of biological dentistry as discussed by Dr. V:

Whole-Body Approach: Unlike traditional dentistry, which often focuses solely on treating symptoms in the mouth, biological dentistry takes a holistic approach to oral health. Practitioners consider how dental procedures and materials may impact the entire body, recognizing the interconnectedness of oral health with systemic health.

Safe Removal of Toxic Materials: One of the central tenets of biological dentistry is the safe removal of toxic dental materials, such as mercury amalgam fillings. Mercury is a potent neurotoxin and can leach into the body over time, potentially contributing to a range of health issues, including breast cancer. Biological dentists employ specialized techniques, such as the SMART (Safe Mercury Amalgam Removal Technique), to minimize exposure to harmful substances during dental procedures.

Biocompatible Materials: In addition to removing toxic dental materials, biological dentistry advocates for the use of biocompatible alternatives. These materials are less likely to trigger adverse reactions in the body and are better aligned with the body’s natural physiology. By opting for biocompatible materials, individuals can promote better oral and systemic health while reducing the risk of potential complications.

Consideration of Oral-Systemic Connection: Biological dentistry recognizes the intricate connection between oral health and systemic health. For example, certain dental issues, such as periodontal disease, have been linked to an increased risk of systemic conditions like heart disease and diabetes. By addressing oral health concerns proactively, individuals can support overall wellness and potentially reduce the risk of systemic diseases.

Emphasis on Preventive Care: In line with holistic health principles, biological dentistry places a strong emphasis on preventive care. Rather than simply treating dental problems as they arise, practitioners focus on identifying and addressing underlying causes to prevent future issues. This proactive approach may include education on nutrition, lifestyle factors, and proper oral hygiene practices to support optimal oral and overall health.

By embracing the principles of biological dentistry, individuals can take proactive steps to promote oral health and support overall well-being. As Dr. Veronique Desaulniers advocates, a holistic approach to dental care may not only enhance the health of your smile but also contribute to a healthier, happier life.

Resource:
Biological Dentist Directory – IAOMT

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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Green Goodness – Recipes for St. Patrick’s Day Weekend

St. Patrick’s Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than with delicious and nutritious green recipes? Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply looking to add some green goodness to your diet, these recipes are sure to impress. From vibrant salads to hearty mains, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this St. Patrick’s Day weekend.

Easy Basil Pesto

1. Easy Basil PestoSee the recipe here >

 

2. Green Goddess Salad:
Start your celebrations on a fresh note with a vibrant Green Goddess Salad. Packed with nutrient-rich greens like spinach, kale, and avocado, this salad is not only delicious but also incredibly healthy. Top it off with some crunchy cucumber, juicy cherry tomatoes, and a drizzle of homemade green goddess dressing for a burst of flavor.

 

3. Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast:
For a hearty and satisfying main course, try these Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breasts. Tender chicken breasts are filled with a mixture of sautéed spinach, creamy feta cheese, and fragrant garlic, then baked to perfection. Serve alongside some roasted green vegetables for a complete and nutritious meal.

 

4. Matcha Coconut Cashew Butter Cups
A sweet treat! Matcha coconut butter cups filled with creamy oozy cashew butter. These dessert cups taste like a treat, but are a perfect healthy snack packed with healthy fats and protein! See the recipe here >

 

5. Detox Shamrock Smoothie:
If you’re looking to cleanse your body and boost your immune system, this detox green juice is for you! See the recipe here >

 

Spirulina Green Smoothie

6. Spirulina Green Smoothie
Ingredients: + 1.5 cups almond milk + 1/2 cup coconut yogurt + 1/2 avocado + scoop of paleovalley supergreens powder + 1 tsp nutrex spirulina

 

Minty-Ginger Cider Mocktail

7. Minty-Ginger Cider Mocktail:
With a beautiful combo of mint, apple, ginger, cinnamon, & even aloe vera leaf (to promote good gut health), you’ll enjoy sipping this drink all year long! See the recipe here >

 

 

This St. Patrick’s Day weekend, embrace the spirit of the holiday with these healthy and delicious green recipes. Whether you’re enjoying a leisurely brunch with friends or indulging in a cozy dinner at home, these dishes are sure to make your celebrations extra special. So put on your green apron and get cooking!

 

 

About the contributor:

Jacqueline Genova is a certified holistic nutritionist, wellness writer, and podcaster, who is passionate about healing through integrative medicine. She resorted to holistic healing approaches to resolve some of her own health problems, and to help her mom battle Stage IV breast cancer. She is a graduate of Babson College where she researched and wrote a thesis that advocated integrative medicine as an alternative to conventional cancer treatment. She developed a passion to share what she learned with others that led to her founding WellnStrong™. She believes in a holistic approach to wellness that addresses the root causes of illness, and not the suppression of symptoms.

Want to connect? Email me at jacqueline@wellnstrong.com

Are you a brand interested in collaborating? Find more information here!

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Unlocking the Power of Breath: Healing with the vidaBALL™

In our hectic lives, finding moments of peace can feel like chasing a mirage in the desert. We’re constantly bombarded with stressors, leaving us exhausted and overwhelmed. But what if I told you that within the rhythm of your breath lies the key to tranquility? Enter the vidaBALL™ – your ultimate stress relief companion and a beacon of hope for those on their healing journey from cancer.

Breathwork: A Gateway to Healing
Breathwork has been practiced for centuries across various cultures as a powerful tool for healing and spiritual growth. It’s a simple yet profound practice that involves conscious control of the breath to bring about physical, mental, and emotional well-being. With the vidaBALL™, breathwork becomes accessible to all, offering a tangible means to manage stress and anxiety in our modern lives.

The Science Behind the Breath
Our breath is intimately connected to our nervous system. When we tap into the power of the exhale, intentionally slowing down our “out breath”, we activate the parasympathetic nervous system, also known as the “rest and digest” response. This triggers a cascade of physiological changes, including reduced heart rate, lower blood pressure, and increased relaxation.

The Healing Power of Breath in Cancer Journey
For those facing the challenges of cancer, the benefits of breathwork extend far beyond stress relief. Research suggests that practices like deep breathing can help alleviate the side effects of cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Moreover, cultivating a mindful connection to the breath can provide emotional support and foster a sense of inner resilience during challenging times.

Breath Prayers: A Path to Spiritual Connection
Incorporating spirituality into breathwork adds another dimension to the healing process. Breath prayers, found in traditions such as Christian contemplative prayer and mindfulness meditation, involve repeating a short prayer or phrase with each inhale and exhale. For example, “Peace be with me” on the inhale, and “Peace be with the world” on the exhale. This rhythmic repetition serves to quiet the mind, deepen spiritual awareness, and cultivate a sense of connection to something greater than oneself.

Supporting Healing Through the vidaBALL™
The vidaBALL™ is more than just a breath training device; it’s a symbol of support and solidarity for those navigating the challenges of cancer. With every purchase of a vidaBALL™, a donation is made to Believe Big, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping families face, fight, and overcome cancer. By investing in your own well-being with the vidaBALL™, you’re also contributing to a greater cause, spreading hope and healing to those in need.

How to Use the vidaBALL™ for Healing
Using the vidaBALL™ is simple and intuitive.

Here’s a quick guide to incorporating it into your daily routine:

Set Up: No assembly required. Simply turn on the vidaBALL™ whenever you need a moment of relaxation.

Choose Your Breath: Select one of the five guided breath patterns provided in the user guide.
Breathe In, Breathe Out: Follow along as the expanding and contracting lights, along with gentle vibrations, guide your breath. Feel the tension melt away as you sink into a state of calm and inner peace.

Breathe for Healing
In a world filled with chaos and uncertainty, the power of breath remains a constant source of solace and strength. With the vidaBALL™, you have a companion on your journey to healing – a tool that empowers you to tap into the inherent wisdom of your breath and cultivate a deeper connection to yourself and the world around you. So take a moment, pause, and breathe. For within the rhythm of your breath lies the melody of your life, guiding you towards a path of healing, wholeness, and hope.

 

Join the Breathwork Revolution: Get Your vidaBALL™ Today!

 

vidaBALL

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Demystifying Demonic Influence: Insights from a Christian Perspective

Are you intrigued by the age-old debate about spiritual forces and their impact on human lives? Dr. Rob Reimer, a seasoned theologian and practitioner, shares profound insights into the realm of demonic influence, drawing from his extensive experience in ministry and deliverance. In this captivating dialogue with Ivelisse Page, they delve into the nuanced understanding of demonic presence, its manifestations, and the pathway to liberation.

Unveiling Demonic Influence: Dr. Reimer vividly recounts his encounter with a young man exhibiting troubling behavior, which led him to confront the reality of demonic presence. This eye-opening experience shattered his preconceived notions and propelled him into a deeper exploration of spiritual warfare.

The Complexities of Deliverance: Through poignant anecdotes and biblical references, Dr. Reimer sheds light on the multifaceted nature of deliverance. He emphasizes the crucial role of repentance, exposing secrets, and breaking curses as foundational steps in the process of spiritual liberation.

Navigating Spiritual Boundaries: Engaging with individuals entrenched in alternative spiritual practices, such as mediumship and occultism, Dr. Reimer exemplifies a compassionate yet discerning approach. By affirming God’s love and truth, he extends a bridge of hope to those ensnared in spiritual darkness.

Discerning Demonic Influence: Addressing common misconceptions, Dr. Reimer clarifies the distinction between demonic possession and influence. He underscores the significance of sin as the primary gateway for demonic entry, cautioning against complacency and emphasizing the need for spiritual vigilance.

Practical Wisdom for Spiritual Warfare: Offering practical advice, Dr. Reimer advises against engaging in practices that compromise spiritual boundaries, such as occult activities and illicit sexual behaviors. He emphasizes the importance of confession, repentance, and seeking deliverance within a supportive community of believers.

Dr. Rob Reimer’s insights provide a compelling framework for understanding and addressing demonic influence from a Christian perspective. By embracing biblical truth, cultivating discernment, and seeking spiritual accountability, individuals can navigate the complexities of spiritual warfare with confidence and resilience.

Intrigued by the discussion? Dive deeper into the exploration of spiritual warfare and deliverance by listening to the full podcast episode here:

 

🌟 Your Donations Make a Difference! 🙏

Your generosity is the heartbeat of our podcast, allowing us to extend our reach to cancer patients who need it most. With your support, we can provide valuable insights, stories of hope, and crucial resources to those battling cancer.

Every contribution, no matter the size, fuels our mission to uplift, educate, and empower. Your donations ensure that we can continue to create content that touches lives, offers guidance, and brings comfort to individuals and families facing the challenges of cancer.

Together, we are a beacon of support and a source of strength. Thank you for being a vital part of our podcast community. 💪

Donate today and help us make a lasting impact! 💕

 

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Overcoming Picky Eating and Promoting a Diverse Diet: Essential Health Tips for Kids and Adults

Today we will delve into two essential health tips that can positively impact your well-being and overall health. The first tip focuses on picky eating among children, highlighting the need to overcome this challenge and promote diversity in their diet. The second tip, relevant to both adults and children, emphasizes the significance of maintaining a diverse diet to support a healthy microbiome and prevent cancer. Join us as we explore practical strategies and insights to make positive changes for you and your family’s health.

Tip 1: Overcoming Picky Eating for Kids

Children these days are often exposed to an abundance of processed foods, making picky eating a common concern for parents. Overcoming picky eating habits is crucial to ensure children receive the necessary nutrients for their growth and development.

Here are three practical steps to help navigate this challenge:

Meet Them Where They’re At: Understanding the severity of picky eating habits is essential. Tailor your approach based on your child’s level of pickiness, ensuring they feel safe and comfortable around new foods.

Transition with Familiar Foods: Start by introducing healthier versions of your child’s favorite foods. For instance, if they enjoy chicken nuggets from a fast-food restaurant, you can gradually transition to homemade chicken nuggets using healthier ingredients. Maintain the familiar shapes and flavors to ease the transition.

Celebrate Small Wins: Make the process of trying new foods fun and rewarding. Create a positive environment by celebrating each little win, implementing reward systems, or introducing negotiation strategies that align with your child’s interests.

Tip 2: Embracing Diet Diversity for Everyone

The significance of a diverse diet cannot be overstated when it comes to promoting optimal health and preventing chronic illnesses like cancer. Research suggests that feeding your microbiome at least 35 to 50 different plants in a week can have profound effects on your overall well-being.

Here’s why diversity matters and how to achieve it:

The Gut-Brain Connection: The gut and the brain are intricately linked, with the gut microbiome playing a vital role. Toxic exposures and imbalances in the microbiome can lead to inflammation, affecting both physical and mental health. By prioritizing diversity in your diet, you can support a healthy gut-brain axis.

Reducing Toxic Load: Our modern environment is filled with numerous toxins that can accumulate in our bodies over time. While it’s impossible to eliminate all sources of toxicity, you can take actionable steps to reduce exposure. Start by switching to non-toxic household cleaning products and using apps like Think Dirty to scan and choose safer personal care products.

Embracing Lifestyle Medicine: Lifestyle factors such as nutrition, sleep, stress management, exercise, and social connections play a crucial role in overall well-being. By focusing on these pillars of lifestyle medicine, you can positively impact your health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Prioritizing your health and the health of your loved ones is crucial in today’s fast-paced world. By implementing practical strategies to overcome picky eating in children and embracing a diverse diet for everyone, you can create a solid foundation for optimal well-being. Remember, small steps taken today can lead to significant long-term benefits, supporting a healthy microbiome and reducing the risk of chronic illnesses such as cancer. Start your journey towards a healthier lifestyle today!

Listen to the full podcast episode below:

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Believe Big’s review of “100 Acts of Love: A Girlfriend’s Guide to Loving Your Friend Through Cancer or Loss”

As an organization that supports cancer patients and their loved ones, we highly recommend “100 Acts of Love” by Kim Hamer. This book is an incredibly helpful and heartfelt guide for anyone who wants to support a friend or loved one through a cancer diagnosis or loss. This book is based on Hamer’s personal experiences of caring for her husband with cancer and the support she received from her friends. Through practical advice and meaningful insights, she helps readers navigate the ups and downs of a cancer journey. From how to be a good listener to creative ways to show your love and support, “100 Acts of Love” is full of practical tips and thoughtful ideas that will help you be there for your friend in a meaningful way.

 

What we appreciate most about this book is that it emphasizes the importance of connection and community in times of difficulty. Hamer encourages readers to lean on their own support networks, while also offering guidance on how to build and strengthen those networks during a challenging time. Overall, “100 Acts of Love” is an essential guide for anyone who wants to show their love and support for a friend or loved one dealing with cancer or loss.

 

Three key takeaways we had after reading it:

 

  1. Small gestures can make a big impact: The book emphasizes that it’s often the little things that matter most when supporting a friend through cancer or loss. From sending a thoughtful text message to making a homemade meal, the book offers many practical suggestions for simple yet meaningful acts of love.

 

  1. Connection and community are crucial: The author emphasizes the importance of building and maintaining strong support networks during times of difficulty. Whether it’s reaching out to family members, joining a support group, or simply spending time with friends, connecting with others can provide much-needed comfort and help alleviate feelings of isolation.

 

  1. It’s okay to not have all the answers: Hamer acknowledges that supporting a friend through cancer or loss can be challenging and that there may not always be easy answers. However, she emphasizes that being present and listening to your friend’s needs is often the most important thing you can do. By showing empathy, compassion, and a willingness to simply be there, you can make a significant difference in your friend’s life.

 

We highly recommend this book to anyone looking for practical advice, heartfelt encouragement, and inspiration on how to be a good friend and a strong source of support in difficult times. You can find it on amazon: https://amzn.to/40pNzzM

Listen to the podcast episode below where we had the pleasure of speaking with Kim Hamer about the book and these important topics.

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Common Myths About Colorectal Cancer and Prepping for a Colonoscopy

March is National Colorectal Awareness Month

March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, and as I’m getting ready for my annual colonoscopy, I wanted to share a few things with you. For those of you that don’t know, colon cancer is the second leading cause of death among men and women combined in the United States. It used to be that colon cancer was mainly found in those over 50, but we at Believe, Big have personally seen a rise in those, even in their twenties and younger.

Recommendations say to start at age 45, but we would suggest talking to your integrative practitioner and consider starting earlier with even a non-invasive test like a Cologuard . If you have a family history, your first colonoscopy should be 10 years prior to the family member’s diagnosis. So for example, I was diagnosed at 37, so each of my kids will have their first colonoscopy at 27 years old because they have a family history, they are unable to do the at-home test like Cologuard.

Here are some symptoms for you to look out for:

  • Ongoing changes in bowel habits.
  • Stools that are narrower than.
  • Feeling very weak and fatigued.
  • Rectal bleeding blood in the stool or black stool.
  • Weight loss for unknown reason.
  • Frequent gas pains, cramping, or feeling of fullness.

 

Prepping for A Colonoscopy

As I’m prepping for my colonoscopy, I wanted to share with you a few things that I’ve learned over the years. The first is to speak to your integrative practitioner about alternative preps. Consider avoiding the usual bowel prep as it wipes out all of the good bacteria from your gut. It would then take about a year to restore it, and we need it for immune function our hormone regulation and more. Out of all the conventional preps that are out there, the magnesium citrate seems to be the least destructive. Though I have found that all of them contain artificial coloring and sweeteners, which I’m actually allergic to.

I now use a combination of drinking calm without the calcium. The day before your colonoscopy, begins taking “Calm” magnesium citrate powder (make sure doesn’t contains calcium!), 1 tsp every 4 hours until you reach bowel tolerance—loose, watery stools. Keep your hydration up and move your diet to a liquid only consisting of water and bone broth two days before. I’ve tried many and my favorite is Denver Bone Broth.

Then I do colon hydrotherapy. We are going to be doing a podcast about this very soon, stay tuned. I struggled for years with my gut, and I realized a few years back that it was my conventional prep that was hurting me. Always be your own advocate and please tag and share this with those you love.

Colon cancer is the second deadliest cancer.

However, there are quite a few myths surrounding colon and rectal cancer that prevent people from getting tested.

Myth #1: “It only happens to men.”

The truth: The overall lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer for women (1 in 24) is only slightly lower than it is for men (1 in 22). Age is a much bigger risk factor than sex.

Myth #2: “I’m too young to get colon cancer.”

The truth: While it’s true that more than 9 out of 10 instances of colorectal cancer occur in people over the age of 50, the American Cancer Society recently changed their guidelines to recommend screenings starting earlier, at age 45. This is due to a sharp rise in the number of young adults diagnosed with colon cancer each year.

Myth #3: “Colonoscopies are painful.”

The truth: Colonoscopy is a common test familiar to many but not well known by all patients. Sure, it’s not exactly pleasant, but it’s not as bad as you think. For starters, most people only need one every 10 years.

To prepare for the procedure, you’ll have to avoid solid foods and take a bowel-cleaning substance the day before the procedure to clear your colon. During the procedure, you’ll receive a sedating medication to make you more comfortable, and most people can return to their normal activities that same day. All in all, the hassle is worth it. Precancerous polyps can be removed during the procedure, which is much easier than treating late-stage colon cancer, which may involve surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy.

Myth #4: “Colonoscopies are dangerous.”

The truth: A colonoscopy is a medical procedure, so yes, complications are possible. Rarely, a colonoscopy can create tears in the colon or trigger diverticulitis, an infection of the pouches inside the colon wall. Overall, the complication rate is estimated to be less than 1% for all complications. Your doctor will discuss these risks with you before the procedure, but in most cases, the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks.

If you’re still anxious about having a colonoscopy done after talking with your doctor, there are other tests used to screen for colon cancer. While a colonoscopy is still the most accurate test available, you may be more comfortable with a fecal blood test (FOBT) performed every 1 or 2 years, or a sigmoidoscopy, which is similar to a colonoscopy but is less intensive.

myths source: https://www.floridamedicalclinic.com/blog/colon-cancer-awareness/

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