"Soul Inside ... "

"and the beat of my heart
Marks the passing of time
And I just wanna scream to the sky
There are times when my mind is an explosion of feelings
I`m trying to hold on to the soul inside"

~ Soft Cell ~ Soul Inside ~

***

Another supplement prescribed on the Gerson Therapy is Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10).  CoQ10 is a naturally-occuring vitamin-like nutrient found in every cell of the body.  It is present in highest concentrations in cell mitochondria or where energy is produced.  It's primary function is to help with the conversion of food and oxygen into energy.

You may be wondering if CoQ10 is "naturally-ocurring" why prescribe it?  Well as you know, those diagnosed with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses have a direct connection with weaken immune systems and require all the tools available to rebuild themselves.  And, anti-oxidants are important.  They are substances that protect cells from the damage caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals.  Free radical damage may lead to cancer.  Antioxidants interact with and stabilize free radicals.

So, back to Coenzyme Q10 .... it is a powerful antioxidant and provides additional help neutralizing damage-causing free radicals.  Studies have show that additional supplementation supports healthy blood pressure, cholesterol levels as well as promotes healthy immune-system functions.  Also, due to aging, levels of CoQ10 decline, resulting in less efficient organ function because of reduced energy supply.

As always, check with your health care practitioner prior to taking any supplements.  Inquire about the "type" of CoQ10 you are prescribed to ensure you are getting the highest quality, 100% natural form.  Some synthetic forms are processed using tobacco and other non-natural molecules of unproven effectiveness.  Making sure CoQ10 is produced by natural fermentation; the version identical to the human body's own CoQ10.

"A wise man should consider that health is the greatest of human blessings, and learn how by his own thought to derive benefit from his   illnesses" - Hippocrates 

"Milk Thistle ..."

" Milk Thistle, milk Thistle
Let me down slow
Help me go slow
I've been carrying on ...

Don't be scared of nothing
You go pound for pound
You bring peace to midnight
like a spotted owl ..."

~Conor Oberst ~ Milk Thistle ~

***

One of the many Gerson supplements is Milk Thistle.  Currently, I take two tablets, three times a day with my vegan meals.  So why milk thistle and what are its benefits?  Well, as mentioned in one of my prior posts, most cancer patients have toxic livers.  Yet, there are many ways to assist in regenerating the liver.  Milk Thistle is a herb and could really be called the liver's BFF.  You see, milk thistle not only protects the liver from toxins, but it also plays an important healing role too.  It repairs liver cells and promotes the regeneration of new cells.  How cool is that??  It ensures that the daily tasks are carried out and that the liver has the ability to rejuvenate itself (visualize my happy dance here).

This herb has the presence of chemicals that can help to detoxify the liver, thereby saving it from the detrimental effects of toxins that are present in our bodies ... and actually reverses some damage that is caused to the liver through excesses in alcohol use, pesticides, and processed foods.  Additionally, it can help prevent some diseases such as hepatitis and cirrhosis of the liver.  It is possible to repair this damage done to the liver through wear and tear through a regeneration process.  Worn out cells will grow back again during the process known as regeneration.  And in those cells where regeneration does not occur natural, it can cause the process to start up again.

So how does this all happen?   Well, an active ingredient called Silymarin, is a powerful antioxidant that protects the body from free radicals that cause cellular damage.  And in some laboratory studies Silibinin, an active compound of Silymarin, is effective in fighting cancer cells found in prostate, cervical and breast cancers.  The use of Milk Thistle has helped to reduce the cancer cell growth and has improved the efficacy of chemotherapy drugs.  Therefore, regardless of your treatment of choice, milk thistle can be very beneficial to assist your liver to a healthier state.  

Of course first consult your health practitioner when considering any form of medication, synthetic or herbal.  I for one am not in favour of self-medicating, yet am in favour of understanding your treatment plan.  Always, always, always do your research and know what you are ingesting in your body ... and know the benefits and side effects to determine if it is right for you. 

♥ Love your Liver ♥