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/

Suggested Resources:

 

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! 🌟

Read more

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.

 

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!

 

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”.

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.

Read more

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/

Suggested Resources:

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! 🌟

Read more

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.

Read more

Understanding the Hidden Dangers of Wireless Technology with Dr. Devra Davis

In today’s digital age, wireless technology is an integral part of our lives. From cell phones to Wi-Fi routers, these devices offer convenience but also come with risks that are often overlooked. In a recent episode of the Believe Big podcast, we had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Devra Davis, founder of the Environmental Health Trust, about the hidden dangers of wireless radiation, including the effects of 5G technology.

Key takeaway: “Distance is your friend.” Dr. Davis emphasized the importance of keeping your devices away from your body to reduce exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMFs). She also noted that the pulsed radiation from wireless devices is what causes the most harm over time, not necessarily the power of the radiation itself.

The Unseen Risk of Wireless Radiation
Dr. Davis shared eye-opening information on how wireless devices, especially cell phones, emit radiation that can have serious health implications. One startling revelation was that the last time safety standards for cell phones were set was 25 years ago. Since then, technology has advanced, but safety regulations have not kept pace. This outdated standard puts everyone, especially children, at risk.

The Impact on Children’s Health
One of the most alarming topics discussed was the effect of EMF exposure on children. Studies have shown that children who begin using cell phones at a young age are at a higher risk of developing brain cancer as they grow older. The proximity of cell towers and the increased use of devices in classrooms only add to this risk.

Dr. Davis strongly advocates for wired connections in schools and limiting children’s exposure to wireless devices. She also highlighted the quadrupling of rectal cancer rates in American adults under 40, which she believes could be linked to the habitual carrying of cell phones in pockets.

Practical Steps to Protect Your Family
While the dangers are significant, there are practical steps you can take to protect yourself and your family:

  • Turn off your Wi-Fi router at night or program it to operate at the lowest power necessary.
  • Use wired connections for your internet whenever possible. It’s faster, safer, and more secure.
  • Keep cell phones out of bedrooms or place them in airplane mode to minimize exposure while you sleep.
  • Educate your children about the risks and encourage them to keep devices away from their bodies.
  • Davis also mentioned the importance of community action. By getting educated and working with others, you can advocate for safer technology and push for updated regulations that protect public health.

 

The Road Ahead
As Dr. Davis pointed out, there is a growing international movement to demand safer wireless technology. The Environmental Health Trust provides numerous resources, including fact sheets and guidelines, to help individuals and communities take action.

Final thought: We should not have to choose between convenience and health. It’s time to push for technological advancements that prioritize safety alongside innovation.

 

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! 🌟

Read more

Bridging Hope

Personal Connections in the Journey of Healing at Believe Big

At Believe Big, we are always honored to be part of a patient’s journey toward healing and hope. Our mission of bridging the gap between conventional cancer treatments and complementary therapies is very important to each of us working behind the scenes at Believe Big.

From our Patient Advocate team to our Believe Mug program and our Mistletoe & Nutrition Grant Program, we are blessed to connect with patients all over the U.S. in all stages of their respective journeys.

The personal connections we make and build with our patients are one of the best parts of our jobs.  Often, we get feedback that expresses gratitude and appreciation.  This truly makes our work special.   Below are just a few examples of patients and families who came to Believe Big for one reason or another and felt heard, acknowledged, and ultimately blessed in some authentic way:

  • “I could feel how much she cared. And I could tell that she is truly filled with the holy spirit.” Tina B. expressed her thoughts after her uplifting phone call and heartfelt prayer with Jackie, one of our Patient Advocates.
  • “You made an otherwise difficult time much more tolerable.” This message came from Ronald and Pamela M. who were touched by the thoughtful Christmas gifts they received during a challenging time.
  • “The biggest comfort and encouragement are the prayers we’ve received.” Shared by Robin M. reflecting on her husband Rob’s journey.
  • “Now I feel excited about starting this holistic therapy vs. stressed!” Ellen S. shared this comment after receiving one of our Believe Big Wellness Grants.
  • “I can’t wait to enjoy my daily teas in the beautiful mug. Every morning, I start my day with prayer, and it was so nice to incorporate the ’50 Days of Hope’ this morning.” Kelly A. was excited to share her gratitude for her Believe Mug and devotional book.
  • “Just bee-lieve. I got this. All of it.” After receiving a Believe Mug decorated with bees, Lynnette M. commented about her renewed hope for Jamie’s health and healing and the support she could assist him with.
  • “This truly is a gift from God,” Burdened by financial challenges, Melissa I. felt inspired to pursue her complementary treatments with a Believe Big Wellness grant.

The heartfelt notes from patients and their families remind us daily of the impact we have on their lives. From Elaine A. feeling grateful for accessing mistletoe therapy to Jesse W. expressing relief over financial support for continued treatments, their words fuel our dedication to this mission.

At Believe Big, we are committed to being a beacon of hope, love, and encouragement. Each thank you letter we receive strengthens our resolve to support patients through every step of their healing journey. We are deeply grateful to be part of this incredible community and to witness the resilience and faith of those we serve. Together, we BELIEVE in a future filled with hope and healing.

Read more

Exploring the Benefits of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy with Dr. Derek Guillory

Today, we’re excited to explore the topic of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) with insights from Dr. Derek Guillory, the founder and medical director of Root Causes Medical Clinic in San Antonio, Texas.

The History and Basics of Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

You might think hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a newly discovered treatment, but it’s actually been used since the late 1600s! Dr. Derek Guillory, one of the first certified functional medicine practitioners in Texas and board-certified by the American Board of Emergency Medicine since 2005, shared some enlightening information about HBOT.

A hyperbaric chamber is a closed space where air pressure is increased, forcing oxygen into your tissues at levels much higher than normal breathing. This therapy has a myriad of applications, from wound healing to treating neurodegenerative diseases and cancer.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy and Cancer

HBOT is particularly exciting in the context of cancer treatment. Tumors thrive in low-oxygen environments, so increasing oxygen levels can inhibit tumor growth and spread. Dr. Guillory explained that HBOT treats both symptoms and causes of cancer, making it a powerful tool in integrative oncology. He uses HBOT alongside immune-supportive therapies like mistletoe and metabolic therapies, such as therapeutic ketosis and high-dose melatonin, to maximize its benefits.

How Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Works

In a hyperbaric chamber, air pressure is raised, which forces oxygen into the body’s tissues at a much higher concentration than normal. This process not only aids in wound healing but also has significant implications for treating conditions like cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and sports injuries. Dr. Guillory explained that while tumors create low-oxygen environments to promote their growth, HBOT disrupts this process, effectively targeting the cancer cells.

Synergy in Treatment

One of the key takeaways from Dr. Guillory’s insights is the importance of synergy in treatment. HBOT should not be used as a standalone therapy. Instead, combining it with other treatments, like immune-supportive and metabolic therapies, can exponentially increase its effectiveness. For example, combining HBOT with mistletoe (an immune therapy) and a state of therapeutic ketosis (a metabolic therapy) puts significant pressure on tumor cells, enhancing the overall treatment outcomes.

Practical Considerations for Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

For those considering HBOT, it’s essential to seek a practitioner who tailors the therapy to individual needs and uses trained technicians. While the cost of HBOT can vary, it typically averages around $200 per session. Unfortunately, it’s often not covered by insurance unless it’s for an FDA-approved condition.

The therapy itself is generally safe, but individuals need to be able to clear their ears during the pressure changes in the chamber. Dr. Guillory advises against using HBOT when experiencing sinus or ear infections to avoid discomfort.

Empowering Patients with Knowledge and Hope

Dr. Guillory’s overarching message is one of hope and empowerment. He encourages people to recognize the power they have over their health through thoughtful, synergistic treatment plans. Addressing not just the physical but also the emotional and mental aspects of health is crucial. The holistic approach he advocates is about more than just finding the next pill—it’s about integrating various therapies to treat the whole person.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy offers promising benefits for various conditions, especially when integrated into a holistic treatment plan. Remember, treating the person, not just the condition, and focusing on synergy in therapies can lead to remarkable health improvements. Stay tuned for more insightful articles on the Believe Big blog as we continue to explore the best in integrative and holistic health practices.

 

Listen to the full podcast episode here:

 

 

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! 🌟

Read more

Why Cancer Hates Tea: Insights from Believe Big’s Food for Thought Session

In this “Food for Thought” session, Stacey Fritz, a patient advocate for Believe Big, and Paula Weinberg, an oncology nutritionist, delved into the remarkable benefits of tea, particularly in the context of cancer. The session provided an enlightening overview, emphasizing the different types of tea, their unique properties, and how they can support overall health and cancer prevention. Here’s a summary of the key takeaways:

Types of Tea and Their Processing

Paula highlighted that there are only four true types of tea, all derived from the Camellia sinensis plant:

  • White Tea: The least processed, retaining the most antioxidants.
  • Green Tea: Known for its high antioxidant content and numerous health benefits.
  • Oolong Tea: Partially oxidized, offering a balance between green and black tea properties.
  • Black Tea: Fully oxidized, rich in flavor and health benefits, particularly for cardiovascular health.

Health Benefits of Tea

Tea is packed with antioxidants and polyphenols that provide various health benefits:

  • Cancer Prevention: Green tea, in particular, is rich in EGCG, a compound known for its anti-cancer properties.
  • Cardiovascular Health: Black tea improves vascular function and reduces cholesterol levels.
  • Weight Management: Tea boosts metabolism, inhibits fat formation, and acts as a natural appetite suppressant.

Special Mention: Matcha and Mistletoe Therapy

  • Matcha: This powdered form of green tea is potent, offering higher concentrations of caffeine and antioxidants. However, Paula noted that it can accumulate aluminum, a potential concern for long-term drinkers.
  • Mistletoe Therapy: Though not discussed in detail in this session, mistletoe therapy is another complementary treatment often explored by cancer patients. It’s essential to discuss such therapies with a healthcare provider.

How to Make the Perfect Cup of Tea

Making tea is an art that involves the right proportions and temperatures:

  • White Tea: 170-185°F, steep for 1-3 minutes.
  • Green Tea: 175-185°F, steep for 2-3 minutes.
  • Oolong Tea: 185-205°F, steep for 3-5 minutes.
  • Black Tea: Boiling water, steep for 3-5 minutes.

Tea is more than just a comforting beverage. It’s a powerhouse of health benefits, especially for those on a cancer journey. Incorporating a variety of teas into your daily routine can offer diverse health benefits, from boosting metabolism to protecting against cancer. Remember, as Stacey and Paula emphasized, always opt for high-quality, preferably organic, tea leaves to maximize these benefits.

 

Watch the full episode below:

 

 

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! 🌟

Read more

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! 🌟

 

Read more

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/

Read more
Archives