Holistic Cancer Therapy

Cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide. Heart disease is number one. For those between the ages of 45 and 74, it is the number one cause of death. The National Cancer Institute says that almost 40% of us living in the USA will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in our life. Cancer rates have also increased worldwide. Today, traditional modern treatment is focused on surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Their objective is to kill the cancer. However, cancer is very much influenced by the body’s environment. If you don’t change your body’s environment, where does that leave the cancer?

What Causes Cancer

Many things contribute to the development of cancer, which is very complex. Cancer is when our cells become damaged genetically and reproduce abnormally, spreading to other parts of your body and damaging tissues. This takeover can be the result of family history as well as lifestyle. Especially as we age, our risk for breast, lung, and prostate cancer increases. Inflammation plays a large part in many of today’s chronic diseases and in the development of cancer as well.

Common Factors Contributing to Cancer

Family History and Genetics.
The Use of Tobacco – If you smoke, quit!
Eating Habits / Diet.
Sedentary Lifestyle and Lack of Exercise.
Excessive Alcohol Consumptions.
Exposure to Radiation – Sun and Radon Gas.
Air Pollution.
Household Chemicals.
Age – the older we get, the more susceptible our cells are to mutation.

Creating healthier lifestyle habits can go a long way in developing and preventing the progression of cancer.

The Diagnosis

A diagnosis of cancer is enormous. I can’t imagine the feelings of fear, anxiety, worry, and hopelessness that quickly take over your mind. These feelings can affect the decisions you make about your treatment. Many people decide to take the complete medical approach. However, there are natural and holistic options to consider that can assist in your recovery.

I always get phone calls from individuals wondering what to do for treatment. They search the internet and often get confused with all the information. They are trying to decide if they should do traditional treatment, alternative/holistic treatment, or a combination of both. Whatever you choose, you need to be committed to it and hopeful that you will recover. Being hopeful and believing you will recover is as important as what treatment you decide to do.

Things to Consider

Each treatment decision will be very personal, and individuals should consider several things before making one. I have three girlfriends diagnosed with cancer within the last five years. Each shared that the following three questions helped them decide about their treatment. I have shared their questions below.

What stage is my cancer?
Has my cancer metastasized?
How is my overall health?

They also shared that the stage they were in and whether it had metastasized gave them an idea of time and an understanding of where they truly were. These three questions will help you determine what you want to do.

I also strongly recommend talking with professionals on both holistic and traditional sides so you understand your treatment options. There are many integrative and complementary centers and doctors out there. Remember, whatever you decide has to give you hope and confidence that you made the right decision. Both are key in recovery.

A holistic approach to cancer therapy usually combines traditional and complementary medicine.

There are many holistic options out there. Many can help you deal with the side effects of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation. Acupuncture, massage, aromatherapy, meditation, music therapy, exercise, tai chi, yoga, and relaxation techniques have been helpful, especially for managing pain, anxiety and stress, sleep issues, and nausea. Other therapies, such as energy therapies, far infrared, and pemf therapy, are used in conjunction with traditional treatments.

Focusing on nutrient-dense foods and improving your diet can certainly help reduce inflammation in your body, increase energy, and support a healthy immune system. Many people also benefit from taking nutrients and supplements for support, especially if they lack appetite. Herbs are often used and have been used to aid recovery from cancer, which we are discussing in this month’s Sunshine Sharing. I know that things don’t change when you don’t make changes. Lifestyle for cancer recovery is a crucial component! I also found this E-Book extremely informative for adding a holistic approach.