Hi,
A big thank you for the continued support and interest in the beneficial relationship between conventional treatment and Naturopathic medicine for Cancer Care. This week, we will be looking at the benefits of acupuncture during cancer treatment, and the importance nutrition can play in any illness or disease that thrives on inflammation.
 
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The Relationship Between Inflammation + Cancer
 
Two types of inflammation exist: acute and chronic. Acute inflammation is the body’s response to sudden damage. Examples include: a broken bone, sore throat, itchiness from a bug bite. Acute inflammation is essential for our body to heal and is not usually cause for concern. 

In contrast, chronic inflammation occurs when there isn’t any sudden damage to deal with, but our cells are sending signals for help. Often, we associate this inflammation with chronic conditions like autoimmune illness, heart disease, cancer, and arthritis.

When looking to reduce chronic inflammation, there are two main areas you want to focus on that help to combat damage and reduce inflammation and disease. Learn more about these food and lifestyle factors by visiting our blog using the link below.
 
 
Focusing on anti-inflammatory nutrition is beneficial even when an acute or chronic condition is not present. We have a easy to follow anti-inflammatory guideline PDF available for free - this is a great resource to start your journey. It is important to highlight that there are some instances where inflammation can be an important part of the healing process - dive into our article on when inflammation can be beneficial.
 
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Cancer or Liu is recognized in Chinese texts dating back to the 16th century and is described as the result of chronic stagnation of the bodily fluids, the meridian energy systems and the Qi life force itself.
 
Acupuncture Treatment for Cancer
 
 
Acupuncture improves energy and vitality in cancer patients but is also particularly useful in mitigating the side effects and symptoms from conventional treatments. Chemotherapy and radiation are viewed as being scorching and hot in the body and while this kills cancer cells it also depletes Yin energy. Acupuncture can help to restore this balance in the body which in turn, improves common symptoms such as:
  • Pain
  • Fatigue and insomnia
  • Nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy
  • Weight loss and loss of appetite
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Dry mouth and mouth sores
  • Hot flashes
  • Nerve issues like neuralgia and neuropathy
  • Constipation and diarrhea
 
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Stay tuned for my next newsletter which will feature an update on my experience, how I am feeling and what is coming up next on my journey. Thank you all for following along! 
 
With love, sincerely;
Dr. Lawrence Chan
 
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