Breast Cancer and Glyconutrients
A cancer is a group of abnormal cells, known as a tumour, that grows uncontrollably. When cells in some areas of the body replicate without control, the excess tissue that forms is called a tumour or neoplasm. Not all tumours are malignant, some are benign and do not invade and destroy tissue, whereas cancerous tumours do grow and invade surrounding tissue.
Abnormal cell proliferation can be caused by carcinogens, which can be chemical and other environmental factors such as diet and smoking. Stressors to the body such as toxins in food, air, or water cause our body to suffer oxidative stress - production of free radicals. Free radicals (damaged cells) are also produced in response to exercise, emotional or mental stress. Free radicals can cause significant damage to cells. They affect cell components, including proteins, membranes and genetic material. Free radicals can also damage our body's systems and organs. They are one of the chief causes of premature ageing. Free radicals, unless controlled by antioxidants can lead to cancer. Normally if a cell becomes damaged by a carcinogen, it is eliminated by mechanism the body has to deal with defective cells. However, when a cell becomes cancerous, many of these mechanisms are also affected.
Breast cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in women with the incidence steadily rising during the last two decades. Despite the increase in breast cancers diagnosed the mortality rates through breast cancer have declined since 1985. This may be because of early detection
It is estimated that one in nine women will develop breast cancer in her lifetime, one in 25 women will die from breast cancer
The World Health Organization suggests that up to 80% of all cancers are a result of environmental carcinogens. Cancer arises principally from the exposure of individuals to carcinogenic (cancer causing) agents in the atmosphere and in what they eat and drink. Personal habits such as tobacco use and occupational exposure to carcinogens play significant roles in the etiology of cancer. These carcinogens can be physical, chemical, biological, dietary, occupational, or air and water pollution
A diet that is high in fruits and vegetables has been shown to offer some protection from many of the negative effects of oxidative stress. High levels of antioxidants and glyconutrients combined provide the best support to deal with free radicals and repair the body.
For all people not just those with cancer, glyconutrients form the basic cellular language of all cells. Cells require adequate amounts of glyconutrients to allow cells to communicate 'correctly'. These nutrients are known to improve the immune system function, organ function and improve basic body physiology. If cells cannot communicate correctly they cannot function correctly or stay healthy. Glyconutrients for cell communication are pivotal no matter what other supplements you decide to take, as they support the body to heal, repair, regenerate, regulate and protect itself
There are four ways glyconutrients fight cancer. Firstly, they stimulate the immune system's macrophage and immune killer cells to destroy cancer cells. This is the first line of defense. Secondly, glyconutrients increase the production of interferon and other substances to target and destroy cancer cells. Thirdly, glyconutrients activate T-cells so they recognize invaders and destroy them. This is the second line of defense. Lastly, glyconutrients help to regulate when cells die (apoptosis), because it is when this process fails that cancer cells can be replicated.
Cancer begins in cells, the building blocks that make up tissue. Tissues make up the organs of the body. Glyconutrients work at the cellular level, leading to healthy cells which make healthy tissue, which makes healthy organs, which in turn make healthy bodies.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this medical condition section is strictly educational and not intended as medical advice. For diagnosis and treatment of medical disorders, consult your health care professional.
Copyright 2005 Glyconutrients Reference - Last Updated May 2005
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