Author: christianakis

Deodorant or no Deodorant?

When I tested positive for the CHEK2 gene mutation, I immediately began to research the different ways in which I could prevent or forestall the onset of breast cancer and colon cancer, both of which have turned up in my family.  As I read widely on the topic, one of the persistent themes had to…

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Mistletoe (Viscum Album)

European Mistletoe (Viscum Album) In some cases, Mistletoe Therapy can complement and supplement standard oncological therapies such as surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and hormonal therapy.  Since 1917 Mistletoe therapies have been used in a variety of ways to manage cancer.  The National Cancer Institute provides a nice overview of Mistletoe Therapy. Some of the reported benefits…

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Herbs, Spices, Teas, and Botanicals

When I got a second opinion from a well-known oncologist specializing in my particular cancer, he recommended that I stop taking Milk Thistle and Turmeric.  When I asked why, he convinced me that we simply do not know enough information about herbs, spices, and botanicals and their relationship to cancer recurrence. Yet some find that…

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What is Cancer?

The answer to the question of what cancer is depends on your particular epistemological, clinical, and geographic training.  Chinese medicine explores cancer in a different way than does traditional western medicine.  From the Western perspective, Ellen Carr of Moores Cancer Center of the University of California, San Diego has created a wonderful introductory resource for…

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Chemo?

Chemotherapy is at the center of the cancer wars.

Integrative Medicine

“It is a very empowering thing when you begin to feel better by your own efforts.”