Medical Conditions - 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.
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.
Resources and Links on Cancer and Glyconutrients
www.cancercare.org - CancerCare is a national non-profit organization that provides free professional support services to anyone affected by cancer
www.cancerresearchuk.org - Cancer Research UK, a wealth of information about the charity and about cancer.
www.oncolink.upenn.edu - Onco Link - the web's first cancer resource.
www.aicr.org - American Institute for Cancer Reserach - AICR is the cancer charity that fosters research on diet and cancer prevention and educates the public about the results.
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.