A Patient's Thoughts On Supplements

Revised May 7, 2003

Welcome

I am a fairly recent member (1-1/2 years ago) of the International Waldenstrom's Macroglobulinemia Foundation (IWMF), and this page is intended as a private resource for any other member of the IWMF interested in the question of supplements. As you know, much useful information can be found at the IWMF website and/or by joining the IWMF TalkList (which you can join by going to IWMF Talklist website (or by sending an email to IWMF-TALK-SUBSCRIBE-REQUEST@home.ease.lsoft.com) and/or by joining the IWMF CAMTalkList (which you can join by sending a blank e-mail message to join-iwmfcam@iwmfcam.talklist.com with your full name as subject). The page below is offered as a non-expert's preliminary and incomplete assembling of information in the hopes that IWMF readers interested in CAM and supplements may find it a useful additional source for their own investigations.

This page was initially prepared solely for my own use -- it contains extensive quotations from books and from other websites and while the quotations are identified and the sources acknowledged they are probably a little more extensive than would normally be acceptable under "fair use" protocols without written permissions. In any case, I should reduce some of this material simply in the interests of readability. So I consider this at the moment a private site rather than a public one. And, finally, it is a work in progress, as I keep adding and revising things based on further study. But I hope you may find it useful.

Introduction

I was diagnosed with WM in Dec/01 -- no symptoms (other than anemia and a very slightly enlarged spleen and lymph nodes), merely a result of following up some anomalous blood-tests (later confirmed with a bone marrow biopsy). My IgM is still very low (21 g/L or 2100 mg/dL) so I up to now I have been among the fortunate group in the "watch and wait" category -- however, with HGB falling to 69 (having fallen from 115 at the time of diagnosis) -- but with no signs of fatigue as yet -- my hematologist concluded that it was time to start treatment. I have just begun the Phase II Clinical Trials for PS-341 at the Princess Margaret Hospital in Toronto. A great many of the supplements I discuss below I am no longer taking -- because my hematologist did not want any possible interactions with the PS-341 treatment -- so I am now basically taking just the vitamins (and Aloe Vera juice and Udo's Oil). However, I hope my earlier research into supplements may be helpful to some of you. I have not yet revised all the following commentary to indicate which supplements I am, at the hematologist's request, no longer taking. But hopefully the discussion will still be clear for most readers.

I decided to explore the use of supplements to assist the immune system in cases where there was some at least partial medical evidence of efficacy. Clearly the medical evidence is mixed in many cases. But it is more than zero. Accordingly, it seemed sensible to adopt what environmentalists (advocating control of greenhouse gas emissions despite some continuing scientific controversy over atmospheric modeling) call "the precautionary principle" (act as if some of the tentative theories may be right providing your action does no harm).

My initial source was the extremely helpful presentation which IWMF member Antoon Verhaak made to the IWMF session in Miami in March 2001, which is viewable on the website www.kanker-actueel.nl. Antoon's supplements are based on advice from his doctor, Dr. Valstar. My own supplement regimen began by following his suggestions closely with a few modifications based on what was readily available in Canada, or what my bottle's label suggested, or, in some cases, what a few other people or websites suggested. Over recent months a few additional changes have been made based on advice from my ND (Dr of Naturopathy).

If one were going to take everything someone somewhere recommended one would end up eating a whole drug store every day. This would be both nonsensical and unaffordable. I have therefore tried to limit what I take to supplements where there seems to be some consensus from several authorities as to their efficacy for immune enhancement and/or cancer resistance. And I have, as already stated, used Antoon Verhaak's (and his doctor's) list as an important starting point. My researches are as yet incomplete. Maybe a few other things should be added; maybe a few should be deleted. You will see that there are a few supplements where references and discussion are not as yet given. I hope to complete these over time.

Caveat

I am a patient and not a medical expert. Of course, everyone should decide (with medical advice, if available) what his or her own regimen of supplements (if any) should be. I merely offer the following searchings of an amateur in the hope that they may be a useful additional source for each reader's own investigations.

I have made frequent references to Antoon Verhaak's dosages and he was kind enough to clarify a few points for me by e-mail. In many cases I have adopted the same or similar dosages. In cases where the dosages differ it is often because the supplements I could locate here in Cobourg Canada may differ in their composition from some of his supplements and I have therefore paid attention to the bottle label suggestions (and to my ND's and others' recommendations). In no sense is this intended to be a debate. I deeply appreciate the information that Antoon provided to the IWMF (and which continues to be available on the website quoted above). I am simply documenting, in case the information is useful to other readers, how I arrived at the dosages and the supplements I am using. If any reader has any comments, corrections, or suggestions, I would very much appreciate hearing them. My e-mail address is rod@rodmer.com. Good luck in your own investigations of supplement regimens.

Finally, the obvious point should be made that everyone is different. A supplement that is critical for one person may well be inappropriate for another. Professional medical advice is desirable. Some of the supplements I discontinued were stopped because my ND said they were either unnecessary for my particular situation or would interfere with other supplements or remedies I was taking. I intend to continue to seek advice from my haematologist and the cancer clinic with which he is associated.

Contents

In the material below I provide:

1. a table of contents by supplement
2. the sources, contents, and dosages I am currently using
3. some assembled discussion (including some website and book references)
   • Conversion factors
   • Brief comment on the Zone Diet
   • Some useful website references
   • Some useful book references
   • Discussion by individual supplement
4. Questions currently unresolved

Table of Contents by Supplement

Supplement	Daily	Source,	Discussion	Immune	Anti-
	Dosage	Contents,		Enhancer	Cancer
		& Dosage
		Comments
			Introductory
			Discussion	see explanation below
Currently taking
Acidophilus**	1 capsl=2 bln cells			?
Aloe Vera Juice	2 fl oz			*	*
Beta Carotene	25,000 IU			?	*
Bromelain**	2000 mg				?
Cod Liver Oil (Vit A & D)	A 4950 IU; D 400 IU			*
Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone)	200 mg + VtE 850 IU			*	?
Flaxseed and Flaxseed Oil (etc.)	2 tbsps oil + 3 tbsps seed			*	*
IP6 (inositol hexaphosphate)	500 mg			*	*
Lecithin**	3600 mg
Pau d'Arco**	2400 mg				*
Soy Isoflavones (Genistin etc.) **	84 mg G+150 mg isoflav				*
Vitamin A	see Cod Liver Oil			*
Vitamin B50 Complex	50 mg ea of 1,2,3,5,6 etc.			*	*
Vitamin C	2000 mg			*
Vitamin D	see Cod Liver Oil			*
Vitamin E	see CoQ10			*	*
**    have temporarily dropped (merely for reasons of economy) as less urgent - but might re-instate if I could find anyone with advice on these subjects
-
No longer taking (but discussed)
Fos-A-Dophilus (acidophilus etc.)				?
Ginseng				*
Iscador (Mistletoe)				*	*
Kombucha Tea				*
Quercetin				*
Selenium Yeast					*
Thymus Concentrate				*
Trans-Resveratrol					*
-
Have never taken (but discussed)
Echinacea				*
Essiac					*
Glutathione				*
Magnesium
PSK (Polysaccharide K)					*
Sterinol				*
Zinc				*

Source, Contents, and Dosage

[note: references to "Antoon" are to IWMF member Antoon Verhaak, on whom I relied tremendously in assembling my own list of supplements -- Antoon's dosages are as indicated in his Mar/01 presentation to the IWMF, which may be found at www.kanker-actueel.nl or, with respect to subsequent modifications, as kindly advised by him by e-mail -- but, of course, he (or his doctor, Dr. Valstar) may have made yet subsequent changes which I have not reflected here]

Currently taking

Acidophilus

• my source:"DDS-100" INNO-VITE, Downsview ON (100 capsules in bottle)
• contents:each capsule contains "minimum 2 billion active cells Lactobacillus acidophilus" + Fructooligosaccharides (FOS)
• dosage: I take 1 capsule per day -- bottle suggests 2 or 3 capsules -- Antoon takes 60 mg acidophilus per day (as part of candinorm) -- I don't know how this relates to my dosage
• see discussion

Aloe Vera Juice

• my source: Lily of the Desert, Texas, US (1 quart bottle)
• contents: made from organic Aloe Vera leaves in the Rio Grande Valley -- contains aleopolysaccharides, amino acids, mineral traces, enzymes, vitamins
• dosage: I take 2 fl oz per day (1 fl oz twice daily) -- the bottle suggests anywhere from 1 oz to 8 oz per day -- Antoon takes slightly under 1 fl oz per day (25 cc)
• see discussion

Beta Carotene

• my source: "BetaCareAll", Natural Factors, Burnaby BC (90 25,000IU caplets in bottle)
• contents: in addition to the 25,000 IU Beta-carotene, each capsule contains:
  • Lycopene 6%.....5000 mcg
  • Alpha-carotene....495 mcg
  • Cryptoxanthin......116 mcg
  • Zeaxanthin.............99 mcg
  • Lutein....................74 mcg
• dosage: I take 1 caplet = 25,000 IU per day -- as the bottle label suggests -- Antoon takes 40 mg "orthocarotene" per day (I don't know the IU content but, using the figures in the MurrayOnImmune book, it appears that 40 mg might be as high as 65,000 IU?)
• see discussion

Bromelain

• my source: Natural Factors, Burnaby BC (180 500mg capsules in bottle)
• contents: "each gram of this extra strength Bromelain extract contains 1000 GDU (Gelatin Digesting Units) and 1500 MCU (Milk Clotting Units) of enzyme activity" -- so each capsule = 0.5 g = 500 GDU
• dosage: I take 4 capsules = 2000 mg per day = 2000 GDU/day -- the bottle label suggests "1 or more capsules at mealtime" = 1500 mg or more per day -- Antoon takes slightly under 1500 mg per day which (I think) contain 6000 GDU/day (but perhaps I'm wrong)
• see discussion

Cod Liver Oil

• my source: TM Trading Co, Markham ON, (100 capsules containing Vitamins A & D)
• contents: each capsule contains 2475 IU of Vitamin A and 200 IU of Vitamin D)
• dosage: I take 2 capsules = A 4950 IU and D 400 IU per day -- as the bottle label suggests -- Antoon takes 50 cc/day of cod liver oil (but I don't know the A and D concentration therein but I would think his total dosage might be somewhat higher) (and note that some additional Vitamin A is generated by the Beta-Carotene elsewhere in this list of supplements)
• see discussion

Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone)

• my two sources: (a) Natural Factors, Burnaby BC (60 50mg gels in bottle) and (b1) Sisu Enterprises, Burnaby BC (50 100mg gels in bottle) -- the reason for the two sources was to arrive at the desired level of 200 mg of CoQ10 while not having too much or too little Vitamin E
• contents: (a) each gel contains 50 mg Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone) (or "Bioquinon Q10") and also 400 IU of Vitamin E; (b) each gel contains 100 mg CoQ10 and also 50 IU of Vitamin E
• dosage: I take 2 gels of (a) + 1 gel of (b) = 200 mg per day and 850 IU Vitamin E
  -- the bottle labels suggests 1 or 2 gels/day -- Antoon takes 30 mg per day (25 cc) -- and note the discussion below about the need to take this with fat or oil and with vitamin E -- I was prevously taking a capsule form, which I cut open and disolved in oil -- it's somewhat easier simply taking the soft gel -- others suggest a higher dose (see the discussion) but my ND suggested I stick with 200 mg
• see discussion

Flaxseed and Flaxseed Oil (etc.)

• my three sources (a) "UDO's Choice Ultimate Oil Blend", Flora, Burnaby BC (500 ml bottle); (b) "Flax Oil", Omega Nutrition, Vancouver BC (32 fl oz bottle); (c) flaxseed from local bulk food store (ground daily before use)
• contents: (a) flax oil, sunflower oil, sesame oil, medium chain triglycerides, evening primrose oil, soy lecithin, rice bran and germ oils, oat bran and germ oils, rosemary extract, tocotrienol -- including various fatty acids including a 2:1:1 ratio of omega 3, 6, & 9 (but doesn't give component quantities); (b) flaxseed oil (extracted at low temperature pressing); (c) raw flaxseed
• dosage: (a) suggests 2 tbsp daily while (b) suggests 1-3 tbsp daily -- I take 2 tbsps = 30 ml per day (being 1 tbsp of each) -- within the range the bottle labels suggest -- Antoon takes 15 cc (1 tbsp) per day of flaxseed oil -- and note the discussion below about the desirability of combining this with the taking of the CoQ10 capsules
• in addition, I take about 3 tablespoonfuls of freshly ground flaxseed at breakfast each day
• see discussion

IP6 (inositol hexaphosphate)

• my source: Advanced Orthomolecular Research (Italy) distributed by Holistic International, Calgary AB (90 500mg vegi-cps in bottle)
• contents: 500 mg inositol hexphosphate extracted from rice bran -- added note: "additional inositol is not added as some IP6 is hydrolyzed hy Phytase enzymes in the digestive tract to yield inositol"
• dosage: I take 500 mg per day (1 capsule daily) -- the bottle label suggested 1500 mg per day (3 capsules) but my ND recommended just 500 mg -- Antoon's list doesn't include this item
• see discussion

Lecithin

• my source: Flora, Burnaby BC (180 1200mg capsules in bottle)
• contents: unbleached soya lecithin (about 50% phosphatides by weight) -- a dietary source of choline
• dosage: I take 3600 mg per day (1200 mg three times daily) -- as the bottle label suggests -- Antoon's list doesn't include this item
• see discussion

Pau d'Arco

• my source: Nature's Way of Canada, Newmarket ON (100 600mg capsules in bottle)
• contents: Pau d'Arco inner bark (Tabebuia impetiginosa) and gelatin -- Brazilian inner bark
• dosage: I take 4 capsules = 2400 mg per day (2 600mg capsules twice daily) -- as the bottle label suggests -- Antoon takes 2500 mg/day (about the same)
• see discussion

Soy Isoflavones (Genistin etc.)

• my source: Soy Isoflavones (Genistin), Sisu Enterprises, Burnaby BC (60 capsule bottle)
• contents: each capsule contains 500 mg soy powder (10% concentrate) and 50 mg (in total) of the following soy isoflavones:
  • Genistin.....28 mg
  • Daidzin......18 mg
  • Glycitin.......5 mg
• dosage: I take 3 capsules = 84 mg Genistin (plus other stuff) per day -- the bottle suggests 2 capsules per day -- Antoon takes 1500 mg of a 35% Genistin extract (thus probably containing 528 mg Genistin) per day -- apparently a very much higher dosage
• see discussion

Vitamin A

• my source: not taken separately but covered in the Cod Liver Oil listed above
• contents: Vitamin A
• dosage: within the Cod Liver Oil dosage (as listed above) is 4950 IU of Vitamin A
• note also the additional contribution of Beta-Carotene (a precursor of Vitamin A and listed above)
• see discussion

Vitamin B50 Complex

• my source: Jamieson, Toronto ON (120 "50 mg" caplets in bottle)
• contents: each caplet contains:
  • 50 mg Vitamin B1 (Thiamine Mononitrate)
  • 50 mg Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
  • 50 mg Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide)
  • 50 mg Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
  • 50 mg Vitamin B6 (Pyroxine Hydrochloride)
  • 50 mcg Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin)
  • 50 mcg Biotin (d-Biotin)
  • 50 mg Pantothenic Acid (Calcium d-Pantothenate)
  • 400 mcg Folic Acid
• dosage: I take 1 "50 mg" caplet per day -- as the bottle label suggests -- Antoon comments in his presentation that he takes B6 and Folic Acid (but I don't know his dosages)
• see discussion

Vitamin C

• my source: Swiss Herbal Remedies, Richmond Hill ON (90 500mg capsules in bottle)
• contents: Vitamin C
• dosage: I take 2 capsules = 1000 mg per day (1 capsule twice daily) = twice the bottle label suggestion -- Antoon comments in his presentation that he takes mega doses of Vitamin C
• see discussion

Vitamin D

• my source: not taken separately but covered in the Cod Liver Oil listed above
• contents: Vitamin D
• dosage: within the Cod Liver Oil dosage (as listed above) is 400 IU of Vitamin D
• see discussion

Vitamin E

• my source: not taken separately but covered in the CoQ10 listed above
• dosage: within the CoQ10 dosage (as listed above) is 850 IU of Vitamin E -- Antoon takes 400 IE per day
• see discussion

No longer taking (but discussed)

Fos-A-Dophilus (acidophilus etc.)

• my past source: Sisu Enterprises, Burnaby BC (90 200mg capsules of FOS [fructooligosaccharides] in bottle + undisclosed amount of acidophilus)
• contents:200mg of FOS [fructooligosaccharides] in bottle + undisclosed amount of acidophilus
• past dosage: I used to take 2 capsules = 400 mg per day (200 mg twice daily) -- the bottle suggests 4 capsules = 800 mg per day -- but am now instead simply taking 1 capsule per day of INNO-VITE's Acidophilus ("DDS-100") (which also contains FOS)
• see discussion

Ginseng

• my past source: Atkins, Waterford ON (100 480mg capsules in bottle)
• contents: Ontario-grown panax quinquefolius (=American as opposed to Asian ginseng)
• dosage: I used to take 1 capsule = 480 mg per day -- as the bottle suggests -- Antoon takes 120 mg G201 extract but this is apparently equivalent to 600 mg Panax Ginseng (and so very slightly higher than my dose) -- I eliminated on the advice of my ND
• see discussion

Iscador (Mistletoe)

• my past source: Bioforce, Montreal (a Swiss sub) (50 ml bottle)
• contents: Mistletoe GUI Tincture in alcohol and water
• dosage: I used to take 45 drops per day (15 drops three times daily) -- the bottle suggests anywhere from 15 to 20 drops three times daily -- Antoon takes 20 drops per day 3% Iscador (but I don't really know how the concentrations compare) -- I eliminated on the advice of my ND
• see discussion

Kombucha Tea

• my past source: Kombucha Peterborough ON (1 litre bottle)
• contents: Kombucha Tea made from Kombucha fungus (Fungus japonicus) and containing a living culture of micro-organisms; ingredients: water, kombucha cultures, green tea, herbs
• dosage: I used to take 6 fl oz per day (2 fl oz three times daily) -- the bottle suggests 4 oz two to three times a day = 8 to 12 fl oz per day -- Antoon takes slightly under 5 fl oz per day (150 cc) -- stopped taking on the advice of my ND and also because it was causing diarrhea
• see discussion

Quercetin

• my past source: Natural Factors, Burnaby BC (60 600mg capsules in bottle)
• contents: each capsule contains:
  • Bioflavonoid Complex 250 mg (lemon orange grapefruit)
  • Bromelain................. 50 mg
  • Rutin........................ 50 mg
• dosage: I used to take 2 capsules = 1200 mg per day (1 capsule twice daily) -- the bottle suggests anywhere from 1 to 3 capsules per day -- Antoon doesn't list this one -- a Dr. John Lee suggests 1000 mg per day -- I eliminated on the advice of my ND
• see discussion

Selenium Yeast

• my past source: Natural Factors, Burnaby BC (90 100mcg tablets in bottle)
• contents: each tablet contains 100 mcg elemental selenium
• dosage: I used to take 2 tablets = 200 mcg per day (1 tablet twice daily) -- twice the bottle label suggestion but my dosage = LEF suggestion and Dr. Weil suggestion (see discussion)-- Antoon was taking a much larger amount (1000 mcg or more) but has now reduced it to 300 mcg per day (pending his next consultation with Dr. Valstar) -- I eliminated on the advice of my ND (on the basis of interference with other things) -- though I am concerned about its absence since so many recommend it
• see discussion

Thymus Concentrate

• my past source: "Defense Factors", NaturPharm, Toronto ON (60 250mg capsules in bottle)
• contents: each capsule contains 250 mg thymus (bovine) containing thymosin and thymopoietin (and some other stuff as well, including:
  • Echinacea angustifolia root 50 mg
  • Echinacea purpurea root 50 mg
  • Astragalus chinensis seed (milkvetch) 50 mg
• dosage: I used to take 5 capsules = 1250 mg per day (2 + 2 + 1 capsules during day) -- the bottle label suggests 3 to 6 capsules per day -- Antoon takes 1200 mg per day (about the same)
• note that these same 5 capsules gave me 500 mg per day of echinacea, which is probably not a good thing on a continuing basis -- so I had thought I might select a source of Thymus concentrate which does not contain this echinacea -- I subsequently conlcuded that the Echinacea dosage was too small to be a problem on a continuing basis -- but in any case, I eventually eliminated Thymus Concentrate on the advice of my ND
• see discussion

Trans-Resveratrol

• my past source: "Protykin", Inno Vite (60 2mg capsules in bottle)
• contents: each capsule contains 4 mg polygonum cuspidatum root extract providing 2 mg trans-resveratrol
• dosage: I used to take 2 capsules = 4 mg resveratrol per day (1 capsule twice daily) -- as the bottle label suggests -- Antoon takes 300 mg per day of "Resveratrol forte" (I don't know if his is cis or trans form -- but his dosage is very much higher) -- I eliminated on the advice of my ND
• see discussion

Have never taken (but discussed)

Echinacea

• not taking (for the reasons outlined in the discussion section) except that, temporarily, 500 mg per day of Echinacea is included in my "Defense Factors" as a (perhaps undesirable) addition to its Thymus concentrate content -- also my ND recommended against
• see discussion

Essiac

• not taking -- no comment on dosage yet -- but now no plans since my ND recommended against
• see discussion

Glutathione

• recommended by Vanderhaeghe but I am not as yet taking -- my ND recommended against
• see discussion

Magnesium

• my source (though currently not taking): Magnesium (citrate), Natural Factors, Burnaby BC (90 150mg capsules in bottle)
• contents: each capsule contains 150 mg of elemental magnesium (in citrate form)
• dosage: I am not taking as yet but the bottle recommends 1-3 capsules per day = 150 mg to 450 mg per day (bracketing the dose of 350 mg that Vanderhaeghe suggests) -- my ND recommended against
• see discussion

PSK (Polysaccharide K)

• my source: I am not presently taking this but am considering a possible source (see discussion section)
• contents: na
• dosage: temporarily I was taking 400 mg per day of 4:1 Shiitake extract but expect to switch eventually to PSK -- Antoon had been taking 1200 mg per day Shiitake extract but has now stopped this as, I believe, his Dr. Valstar feels the medical evidence is not persuasive (see discussion) and that PSK (though much more expensive) would be preferable -- but my ND recommended against both Shiitake and PSK (i.e., said unnecessary in my situation)
• see discussion

Sterinol

• recommended by Vanderhaeghe but I am not as yet taking -- my ND recommended against
• see discussion

Zinc

• recommended by some (15 mg per day) but I am not taking (as discussed in the discussion section) -- and my ND recommended against
• see discussion

Discussion and References

Conversion factors

Brief comments on the Zone diet

• my wife and I have both, for the past year or so, been following the Dr. Barry Sears "Zone Diet" (a question of balancing protein, carbohydrate, and fat)
• both of us lost 20 lbs or so as a result and feel considerably healthier (no afternoon sleepiness after a hi-carb lunch, etc.)
• we also try to work out regularly at the local fitness club
• I expect these two factors (diet and exercise) are probably as important as supplements in enhancing the immune system
• Barry Sears has written many books on his Zone regime -- among them are:
  • Mastering the Zone, Sears, Barry, HarperCollins, New York, 1997
  • Omega Rx Zone: The Miracle of the New High-Dose Fish Oil, Sears, Barry, HarperCollins, New York, 2002 (his latest)
  • others include: The Zone (his first), The Anti-Aging Zone
• related websites are:
  • www.drsears.com
  • www.searslabs.com

Some useful website references

• National Institutes of Health NIH Clinical Center: Facts About Dietary Supplements
• National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) (part of National Institutes of Health) webpage on CAM matters
  • a useful subset is their "CAM on PubMed"
• M.D. Anderson site on "Complementary/Integrative Medicine Education Resource (CIMER)" at mdanderson.org/departments/cimer/ -- elsewhere I have referred to this website as the "CIMER" website
  • this site was suggested by IWMF member Davell Hays (co-organizer of the IWMF-CAM TalkList)
  • the site begins with a useful caution (which should usefully be applied to any recommendations on any website): "Some complementary agents or therapies may be useful for cancer patients; however, some may be harmful in certain situations. M. D. Anderson Cancer Center cautions patients to consult with their oncologist before attempting to use any agents or therapies referenced on these pages".
• The Longwood Herbal Task force website at < href="http://www.mcp.edu/herbal/", target="NewPage">www.mcp.edu/herbal/
  • it is a collaborative effort of staff from the Dana Farber Cancer Institute, Childrens's Hospital and the Mass College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences -- and is designed for cancer patients
  • this site was suggested by IWMF member Eileen Sullivan in Boston
• The Natural Pharmacist TNP.com Encyclopedia on herbs and supplements
• Life Extension Foundation webpage on minerals
• the Healthy Immunity website at http://www.healthyimmunity.com/ established by Lorna Vanderhaeghe (see the book references below)
• Eddy Andersen of the talklist suggests a useful website to check out some therapies is www.quackwatch.com/
• another useful CAM site is DrWhitaker.com -- referred to here as "the Whitaker website" -- runs the "Whitaker Wellness Institute" and publishes a monthly newsletter Health and Healing

Some useful book references

• Four books recommended by IWMF TalkList members:
  • Choices in Healing, Lerner, Michael, MIT Press, Cambridge, Mass, 7th printing 2000
    • This is a wonderful book and I would highly recommend that any IWMF member read at least the first 6 chapters (and your own choices thereafter). As to specific supplements, the book really addresses only vitamins and minerals. In discussion elsewhere on the site I have referred to the book as the "LernerChoices" book.
  • Cancer as a Turning Point, LeShan, Lawrence
    • Marcia Kelpac calls it a "very inspiring book about psychological change as a promoter of healing illustrated by personal experiences of cancer patients"
    • I agree -- it's well worth reading
  • The ABCs of Nutrition and Supplements for Prostrate Cancer, Moyad, Mark -- referred to on this site as the "Moyad book"
    • the recommender said: forget the title, it applies to all cancers
    • a very useful book that reviews supplement by supplement the medical studies and the author's suggestions
  • Cancer: Increasing Your Odds for Survival, Bognar, David, Hunter House Publishers, Alameda, CA, 1998
    • This book (referred to on this site as the "BognarSurvival" book), in turn, contains numerous references to other books, organizations, and resources (see particularly pp.132-134 but also in general chapters 4 and 5)
• Other books (I will add comments later):
  • Spontaneous Healing, Weil, Dr. Andrew, Ballantine Books, New York, 1996
  • Ask Dr. Weil, Weil, Dr. Andrew, Ballantine Books, New York, 1998
  • The Immune Factor, Murray, Dr. Michael, Mind Publishing Inc, Canada, 2001 -- referred to on this site as the "MurrayOnImmune" book.
    • This is a very small book (82 pages) and easy to absorb. While Dr. Murray makes a few references to vitamins and mineral supplements (which are quoted in the appropriate places below), the main thrust of the book is advocacy of Echinacea in general and Echinamide (a Natural Factors brandname for their echinacea extraction) in particular.
  • The Immune System Cure, Vanderhaeghe, Lorna & Patrick Bouic, PhD, Prentice-Hall Canada, Scarborough, ON, 1999 -- referred to on this site as the "VanderhaegheOnImmune" book.
    • Lorna Vanderhaeghe B.Sc. has been a health journalist, editor, and health researcher for more than 20 years
    • she was a writer and editor for Alive magazine and Editor-in-Chief for Healthy Living Guide
    • for over 5 years she worked at the Journal of Orthomolecular Medicine
    • Patrick Bouic Pk.D. is a leading immunologist at Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
  • Healthy Immunity, Vanderhaeghe, Lorna, Macmillan Canada, Toronto, ON, 2001 -- referred to on this site as the "VanderhaegheHealthy" book.
    • with the publication of this book Vanderhaeghe also established the Healthy Immunity website at http://www.healthyimmunity.com/ -- the site also contains on-line copies of her Healthy Immunity Newsletter
  • Earl Mindell's Vitamin Bible,Mindell, Earl, Warner Books, New York, 1991 -- referred to on this site as the "MindellBook"

Discussion by individual supplement

Currently taking

Acidophilus

• The VanderhaegheHealthy book suggests 1 tsp (5 ml) daily (as "an antibacterial [that] improves intestinal flora, and aids digestion") -- but I don't know how to compare that to the 1 daily capsule of "2 billion active cells" that I take
• the website www.nutritionnow.com/acidoinf.htm discusses the destruction of intestinal flora (viable beneficial organisms) by anti-biotic use and suggests that: "Acidophilus supplements can reintroduce beneficial bacteria into the system" -- but I'm not sure to what extent these benefits are related to immune system enhancement or cancer resistance; they seem mostly (from what this webpage lists) to be related to digestive system matters

Aloe Vera Juice

• Aloe Vera Studies Organization website at www.aloe-vera.org/ says:
  • a good Aloe drink, while not "curing", does provide the immune system with the vitamins, minerals, enzymes, etc. that it needs to function properly
  • there are 240+ species of Aloe -- a member of the lily family with cactus-like characteristics
  • of these species, only 4 have nutritional value and the best is aloe barbadensis miller (I assume my bottle is this but it doesn't say)
  • some research that 2 oz (60cc) 3*d for 7 days cures diarrhea by regulating gastrointestinal pH etc.
  • stimulates immune response against cancer -- 1994 Japanese study found significant suppression of growth of cancer cells -- and other studies found:
    • "Researchers writing in Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy found that a compound (lectin) from aloe, when injected directly into tumors, activated the immune system to attack the cancer. Killer T cells, white blood cells that bind to invading cells and destroy them, began to attack the tumor cells injected with lectin.
    • Aloe turns on the immune system by activating macrophages (white blood cells which "swallow" antigens), causing the release of immune-activating (and anticancer) substances such as interferons, interleukines, and tumor necrosis factor. In addition, aloe promotes the growth of normal (non-cancerous) cells, researchers said."
  • other studies quoted:
    • Dr. Lee Cowden (Dallas, Texas) observed that several conditions benefit when treated by oral consumption of Aloe Vera. They include: irritable bowl syndrome, ulcerative colitis, esophagitis, peptic ulcer, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, mouth lesions, sore throat, and lupus.
    • Dr. Robert H. Davis (Physiologist at the University of Pennsylvania College of Podiatric Medicine) conducted Aloe research since the early 1970's.
    • In laboratory tests on animals his findings included the results that Aloe can prevent and arrest arthritis, improve wound healing, inhibit pain, block inflammation, restore bone growth, and act as a vehicle for the delivery of nutrients to the body. Dr. Davis stated, "Aloe vera contains the greatest number of active substances of any plant I've looked at."
    • Aloe is also known to help unblock and keep clean the receptors inside the lining of the intestines - facilitating the absorption into the bloodstream of vitamins and other nutrients.
• some info at www.aloeveraproducts.com:
  • Aloe Vera Juice 2:1 Conc (sometimes called gel) is a natural juice extracted from the mature Aloe Vera leaf -- alleviates, prevents, or controls problems of digestion, constipation, stomach ulcers, arthritic pain
  • was used by ancient Egyptians (the "Plant of Immortality") -- Cleopatra etc. -- drawings of the plant have been found in the tombs of pharaohs
• another website at www.websettler.com/DianaDeone/why.html says:
  • little official standing in the medical community -- but one of most widely used substances in the U.S. for burns and bruises (and also as a healthful drink) -- but studies ongoing and the FDA has approved development aimed at the eventual use of Aloe Vera in the treatment of cancer and AIDS
• also some info at The International Aloe Science Council's website at www.iasc.org website:
  • in its list of certified products it includes from Lily of the Desert:
    • Aloe Vera Gel Raw
    • Aloe Vera Gel
    • Aloe Vera Juice
    • Whole Leaf Aloe Vera Gel Raw
    • Whole Leaf Aloe Vera Gel
    • Whole Leaf Aloe Vera Juice
  • but elsewhere I read some note that whole leaf stuff wasn't appropriate (?)
• the Moyad book is skeptical about Aloe Vera (but more re the skin cream than the juice)

Beta Carotene

• Dr. Andrew Weil suggests 25,000 IU (preferably with other carotenes such as alpha-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and lycopene) -- which is the case with my source of "BetaCareAll"
• Chinese website at http://www.teaby.com/enversion/teascience/s3181.htm says:
  • oxidation prevention helps prevent aging
  • Vitamin C and E help in this
  • green tea is good for this
  • helps eyes (and ultimately avoids cataracts)
  • eyes need more Vitamin C than any other organ (so green tea good for this)
  • night blindness helped by vitamin A -- no nomadic Vitamin A in fresh tea leaves but there is Vitamin A-orthocarotene (Carotene will switch to Vitamin A in liver)
• notes from the TNP.com website:
  • The TNP.com website says that Beta-Carotene is "probably ineffective as cancer prevention" and adds:
    • Beta-carotene is a particularly important carotene from a nutritional standpoint, because the body easily transforms it to vitamin A . While vitamin A supplements themselves can be toxic when taken to excess, if you take beta-carotene, your body will make only as much vitamin A as you need. This built-in safety feature makes beta-carotene possibly the best way to get your vitamin A.
    • Beta-carotene is also often recommended for another reason: it is an antioxidant, like vitamin E and vitamin C . However, although there is a great deal of evidence that the carotenes found in food can provide a variety of health benefits (from reducing the risk of cancer to preventing heart disease), there is little to no evidence that high doses of purified beta-carotene supplements are good for you. Other carotenes such as lutein and lycopene may be necessary to produce a healthful effect. [RJA note: but those other carotenes are indeed present in the supplement I am taking]
• The "LernerChoices" book suggests Vitamin A should be considered for its general anticancer effect in both prevention and treatment and indeed says that "by far the most extensive research on diet and cancer has been made for the retinoids" (p.219) and "retinoids can sometimes stop the cellular process of loss of differentiation that characterizes the progression of cancer" (p.220). He adds further that "beta-carotene, a dietary precursor of vitamin A, is particularly interesting for cancer patients because of its very low toxicity and because of the fact that blood levels are directly related to dietary intake" (p.220). Various medical studies are quoted on pages 219 to 223. Lerner, however, does not comment on any recommended dosage.
• The MurrayOnImmune book suggests that "the recommended level of beta carotene for immune support is 25,000 to 50,000 IU (15 to 30 mg)" (p.64). I take 25,000 IU (at the lower end) -- so perhaps it is OK that I also take the vitamin A directly in the cold liver oil.
• from the NIH Clinical Center webpage at www.cc.nih.gov/ccc/supplements/vita.html:
  • "Surveys suggest an association between diets rich in beta-carotene and vitamin A and a lower risk of many types of cancer....[but] beta-carotene supplements are not advisable for the general population" (except, they say, where a vitamin A deficiency exists)
  • there is some discussion that the risk of excess carotenoids is not serious -- and yet, in the end, they say: "The Institute of Medicine did not set a Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for carotene or carotenoids. Instead, they concluded that beta-carotene supplements are not advisable for the general population."
• the Moyad book agrees with the NIH that one should take Beta-Carotene (and vitamin A) only in foods and not as supplements

Bromelain

• from the Life Extension Foundation (an interesting organization) website at www.lef.org (specifically: http://www.lef.org/prod_hp/abstracts/php-ab110.html):
  • Bromelain, a standardized complex of proteases from the pineapple plant, is absorbed unchanged from the intestine of animals at a rate of 40%; in animal experiments it was found to have primarily anti-edema, anti-inflammatory, and coagulation-inhibiting effects. These effects are due to an enhancement of the serum fibrinolytic activity and inhibition of the fibrinogen synthesis, as well as a direct degradation of fibrin and fibrinogen. Bromelain lowers kininogen and bradykinin serum and tissue levels and has an influence on prostaglandin synthesis, thus acting anti-inflammatory. In in vitro and in animal studies, experimentally induced tumours could be inhibited by. Although many studies do not give extensive statistical data, the effects of bromelain in animal studies seem to be dose-dependent. Further investigations have to be carried out.
• The Natural Pharmacist TNP.com at http://www.tnp.com/encyclopedia/substance/25/ says:
  • "Bromelain is not actually a single substance, but rather a collection of protein-digesting enzymes (also called proteolytic enzymes ) found in pineapple juice and in the stem of pineapple plants. It is primarily produced in Japan, Hawaii, and Taiwan, and much of the original research was performed in the first two of those locations. Subsequently, European researchers developed an interest, and by 1995 bromelain had become the thirteenth most common individual herbal product sold in Germany."
  • indicates that scientific evidence is somewhat mixed

Cod Liver Oil

• basically simply a source of Vitamins A and D (and note that some additional Vitamin A is generated by the Beta-Carotene)
• see the discussions on Vitamin A, Beta-Carotene, and Vitamin D

Coenzyme Q10 (ubiquinone)

• website http://druginfo.onu.edu/herbals/ubiquinone.html talks of for cardiovascular disease:
  • "Ubiquinone (coenzyme Q-10) (CoQ) is a naturally occurring coenzyme found in aerobic organisms. It was given the name ubiquinone because of its universal, or ubiquitous, occurrence in animal tissues. Since its isolation in 1957, CoQ has been studied throughout Japan, Russia, Europe, and the United States. It is found mostly in the inner mitochondrial membrane, especially in the heart, liver, kidney, and pancreas. CoQ plays an important role in the mitochondrial electron transport chain. NADH and succinate dehydrogenases, and other flavoproteins, donate electrons to CoQ, which transfers them to non-heme iron proteins. The oxidation-reduction reactions that CoQ undergoes during electron transport are an essential part of the proton pumping mechanism which leads to the generation of ATP in the mitochondria. In addition to its role in the electron transport chain, ubiquinone is also an antioxidant and free radical scavenger, and it is believed to possess membrane-stabilizing properties.
  • "Since its discovery, coenzyme Q-10 has been used to aid in the treatment of many cardiovascular diseases, such as congestive heart failure (CHF), cardiac arrhythmias, and hypertension. Although it has not been approved for therapeutic use in the United States, ubiquinone is the primary treatment for cardiovascular disease in approximately 12 million Japanese. Grounds for the use of CoQ in cardiovascular therapy was established in the early 1970s by Folkers et al., who found evidence of decreased levels of coenzyme Q-10 in patients with heart disease. Subsequent studies have shown that there is a correlation between cardiovascular disease and low tissue levels of ubiquinone. However, it is not yet known if the lowered CoQ levels are the cause of or a result of the disease states."
• apparently it is a substance occurring naturally in our bodies which diminishes with age (dropping to about half young level by age 60)
• from BC Cancer Agency website at http://www.bccancer.bc.ca/pg_g_05.asp?PageID=1679&ParentID=2:
  • There is insufficient evidence demonstrating that coenzyme Q (CoQ) is an effective treatment for cancer. There is some evidence of coenzyme Q (CoQ) being effective in treating some side effects of cancer treatment, e.g. heart (cardiac) toxicity from chemotherapy, yet may be harmful for patients receiving radiation therapy due to its anti-oxidant properties.
• note that Dr. Andrew Weil says he takes 100 mg/day -- what I am now taking
• however, the VanderhaegheOnImmune book suggests 60 mg per day (60% of what I am taking)
  • she says that 30 to 60 mg doses have "an immune-enhancing effect by increasing antibody production" and that "it has also been found to minimize the effects of chemotherapy-induced toxicity" (p.34).
• however, the VanderhaegheHealthy book suggests (for cancer) 300-400 mg daily (p.181) -- which is a lot more than what I am (or Antoon is) taking or what my CoQ10 bottle label suggests (I don't know the reasons for this discrepancy)
• the University of Texas Center for Alternative Medicine Research in Cancer website at www.sph.uth.tmc.edu/utcam/summary/CoQ10.htm says:
  • higher doses may be appropriate for cancer patients:

    "Studies have shown that cancer patients who take 90mg of CoQ10 per day may experience a reduction in pain and weight loss, increased appetite, and decrease of metastases. However, when doses are increased to 300-390mg daily, studies have reported partial and total tumor remission in some cancer patients. CoQ10 shows moderate variability in its absorption; some patients attaining blood levels of CoQ10 on 100 mg per day while others require two or three times this amount to attain the same blood level. Because factors influencing production, utilization, and degradation of CoQ10 vary, blood serum levels should be monitored."

  • the identical quote as above may be found on the CIMER website
  • the site also states that "CoQ10 is fat-soluble and absorption is significantly improved when it is chewed with a fat-containing food". [I take it in a gel form]
• supported by the above suggestions, IWMF member Davell Hays says that after much study has settled on 180 mg per day (though would actually like to raise it to 300 mg per day)
• some others concur, additing that since 300 mg was used in many clinical trials, that's the amount to use
• IWMF member Jerry Berman says: " As for myself, I've been taking 300mg.for about one month and feel it's increased my energy level. I haven't felt any negative side effects. I take it with liquid flax seed oil and not before bedtime.
• with respect to taking with oil: another IWMF member has commented: "I think that any vegetable oil is sufficient with Co-Q10, but would think that the important thing is that the Co-Q10 be dissolved. I simply break open a capsule of the dry powder into a tablespoon of flax oil, mix it and pour it on something I am eating - a piece of toast in place of butter" -- RJA note: I was doing this for a while as well but now find it simpler to take it in the gel form (already dissolved)
• another website about CoQ10 (suggested by Ken Warner of the talklist) is www.drkoop.com/InteractiveMedicine/ConsSupplements/CoenzymeQ10cs.html -- I have not checked this one out as yet
• yet another website about CoQ10 (suggested by Jerry Berman of the talklist) is cancernet.nci.gov/cam/Q10.html -- I have not looked at this one yet
• the Whitaker website, specifically this page pushes his own form of oil-dissolved CoQ10 gels ("Bio-Q Essentials") and suggests 200 mg per day
• some talklist members have reported a possible effect of CoQ10 in lowering blood pressure (which was a problem in cases where their BP was already on the low side)
• I'm wondering four things:
  1. is the evidence for efficacy of these higher dosages related solely to solid cancers (tumours) or would it apply to lymph gland and bone marrow cancers (like WM) as well
  2. if the latter, is the higher dose relevant only for symptomatic WM patients and premature for asymptomatic WM patients? -- at the moment I am at a 200 mg daily dose (which is six times Antoon's dose) but I would be interested to know what he and his Dr. Vashtar would say about the higher dose arguments
  3. is the 200mg per day reasonable? -- several IWMF members (see above) suggest 300 mg/day -- but my ND has recommended sticking with my 200 mg per day
  4. is it indeed relevant at an asymptomatic point to begin monitoring CoQ10 levels in the blood serum?
• the Moyad book expresses skepticism that the high cost of the supplement is worth it

Flaxseed and Flaxseed Oil (etc.)

• The VanderhaegheHealthy book recommends 1-2 tbsp (15-30 ml) of fatty acid oil daily and says that the two brands of oil she uses are Omega Nutrition and Udo's Choice Oil (being my 2 sources as well) -- my daily dosage of 2 tbsps is consistent with her recommendation -- but in addition she recommends eating 1 tbsp (15 ml) of ground flaxseeds and sunflower seeds daily (and I am not presently doing that)
• The BognarSurvival book says that higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids "can have anticancer effects" but are seriously lacking in typical North American diets -- he lists a "few quality oil brands" including Udo's Choice (p.120) (the source I use)
• note the discussion under CoQ10 about the importance of taking that capsule with oil or fat -- I take the CoQ10 in oil gel form but also take Flaxseed Oil or Udo's Choice Oil at the same time
• the Moyad book strongly advises taking flaxseeds alone (1-2 tsps daily) and not the oil
• in addition to the oil, I am, in fact, taking about 1 tablespoonful or more of freshly ground flaxseed at breakfast each day

IP6 (inositol hexaphosphate)

• bottle label says: "IP6 is a phosphylated form of inositol commonly found in fiber rich plant foods. IP6 may support natural cell defence against damaging hydroxyl free radicals by chelating with reactive iron."
• IP6 was initially brought to my attention by another IWMF member (who had responded to this website) -- but I have subsequently seen other IWMF members on the CAM list say that they are taking IP6
• my ND also recommended it
• a principal researcher here is Vucenik I. Shamsudden AM at the Dept of Pathology, University of Maryland School of Medicine -- one of his articles states:

  Emerging epidemiological data, and careful review of previous studies point to a negative correlation of breast cancer with high fiber cereal diets. Inositol hexaphosphate (IP6) is abundant in cereals and legumes, particularly in the bran part of mature seeds. Experimental studies using 7,12-dimethylbenz [alpha]anthracene (DMBA) and N-methylnitrosourea (NMU) in rats and mice in vivo, as well as human cell lines in vitro demonstrate a reproducible and striking anti-cancer action of IP6. It therefore appears that IP6 is one of the components, if not the most active ingredient, of high fiber cereal diet responsible for cancer inhibition. Could eating high fiber diet afford the same protection as IP6? Thus, we investigated whether dietary fiber containing high IP6 shows a dose-response inhibition of DMBA-induced rat mammary carcinogenesis, and if pure IP6 is more active as a cancer preventive agent, compared to that in diet. Our data show that supplemental dietary fiber in the form of bran exhibited a modest, statistically nonsignificant inhibitory effect. In contrast, animals given IP6 in drink showed significant reduction in tumor number, incidence and multiplicity. Therefore, pure IP6 is definitively more effective than a high fiber diet in preventing experimental mammary tumors. Thus, for cancer prevention, prophylactic intake of IP6 may be not only more effective, but also more practical than gorging on large quantities of fiber.

Lecithin

• the TNP.com website says:
  • dosages of 1500 to 2700 mg/day for high cholesterol are common but that the efficacy evidence is very mixed
  • "Lecithin is believed to be generally safe. However, some people taking high dosages (several grams daily) experience minor but annoying side effects, such as abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, and nausea. Maximum safe dosages . . . have not been determined"
• I'm wondering whether this supplement is inessential and should be cut out?
• the Moyad book is generally receptive to soy lecithin

Pau d'Arco

• quoted from website at www.pau-d-arco.com:
  • "Through my personal experiences over the past several years I have seen the miraculous curing powers of the tea with many cancer victims. I have researched the other so called Alternative treatments for cancer such as Laetrile, Shark Cartilage, Cat's Claw and Essiac. These remedies are debatable at best.
  • PAU D'ARCO TEA, on the other hand, has shown that it may hold the secret for the successful treatment of cancer and other diseases."
  • "Many medical practitioners in South America use Pau D'Arco Tea as their primary treatment for cancer. Over an eight year period I have personally known of 13 people, several diagnosed as terminal, that have been completely cured of their cancer by using this herbal remedy. I hear stories on a weekly basis that relate the remarkable results of using this amazing herbal remedy."
  • website is from Lake Elsinore CA (Roger Delong)
  • side effects:
    • "Nausea and/or slight diarrhea can be a sign that the tea is working and is purging your body of unwanted wastes. These symtoms are only temporary and should disappear in a day or two."
  • dosage: suggests 4 x 8 oz glasses of Pau d'Arco tea -- but I don't know how to relate tea to capsule
• 1999 article by American Cancer Society
• The VanderhaegheHealthy book suggests 250 mg with meals -- which I assume means 750 mg daily -- only about one-third of what Antoon and I are taking (I don't know the reason for the discrepancy)

Soy Isoflavones (Genistin etc.)

• from website http://www.ag.uiuc.edu/~stratsoy/soyhealth/quantification.html:
  • "It has been suggested that the isoflavone, genistein may have some role as a chemopreventive agent against cancer in humans. Levels of genistein and its beta-glucoside conjugate, genistin, ingested in soybeans and related bean products by the Japanese were quantified by HPLC, to estimate daily intake of these compounds. Amounts of genistein and genistin in soybeans, soy nuts and soy powder were in the range of 4.6 to 18.2 and 200.6 to 968.1 g/g food, respectively. The values for soy milk and tofu (bean curd) were 1.9 to 13.9 and 94.8 to 137.7 mcg/g food, respectively. Levels of isoflavones in fermented soybean products, miso (bean paste) and natto (fermented soybeans), were 38.5 to 229.1 mcg/g food for genistein and 71.7 to 492.8 mcg/g food for genistin. Thus, the level of genistein in the fermented soybean products was higher than in soy beans and soybean products such as soy milk and tofu. From these observations, it is suggested that the beta-glycosyl bond of genistin is cleaved to produce genistein by microbes during fermentation to yield miso and natto. Soy sauce was also found to contain both isoflavones, but at levels lower than in miso and natto. On the basis of these data for average annual consumption of soybeans and related products, daily intake of genistein and genistin by the Japanese is calculated to be 1.5-4.1 and 6.3-8.3 mg/person, respectively. These levels are much higher than those for Americans or Western Europeans, whose mortality rates for breast, colon and prostate cancers are greater than the Japanese."
  • note the estimate that the daily intake of genistin by Japanese is about 7 mg
  • the bottle-suggested level above of 56 mg is much higher
• but from http://www.soyfoods.com/3rdSoySymp/Genistein.html they have a contrary finding:
  • "The phytoestrogen genistein stimulates growth of estrogen-dependent human breast cancer (MCF-7) cells in vivo. Genistin is the glycoside form of genistein and the predominant form found in plants. It is generally believed that genistin is metabolized to genistein in the gut. However, it is unclear whether the rate of this metabolism is sufficient to produce a level of genistein capable of stimulating estrogen-dependent breast cancer cell growth. We hypothesized that dietary genistin stimulates tumor growth similar to that observed with genistein in athymic mice. To test this hypothesis, genistin or genistein was fed to athymic mice containing xenografted MCF-7 tumors. Mice were fed either genistein at 750 ppm or genistin at 1200 ppm, which provides equimolar concentrations of genistein in both diets. Tumor size was measured weekly. At completion of the study, half the animals were killed and tumors were collected for cell proliferation analysis. Incorporation of BrdU into cellular DNA was used as an indicator of cell proliferation. Dietary genistin resulted in increased tumor growth rate and cell proliferation similar to that observed with genistein. The remaining mice were switched to diets free of genistin and genistein. Removal of the isoflavones from the diet resulted in tumor regression. In summary, genistin, like genistein, can act as an estrogen agonist to increase proliferation of estrogen-dependent breast cancer cells, and on its removal tumors regress."
• TNP.com Encyclopedia says principal proposed uses of genistein include cancer prevention:
  • Genistein, a naturally occurring chemical present in soy, has attracted scientific interest for its possible benefits in cancer and heart disease prevention. Genistein is a type of chemical called a phytoestrogen-an estrogen-like substance present in some plants. There are two main types of phytoestrogens: isoflavones and lignans. Soy is the most abundant source of isoflavones, with genistein the most abundant isoflavone in soy.
  • Like other phytoestrogens, genistein can work in two ways: either by increasing or decreasing the effects of estrogen. This happens because genistein binds to special sites on cells called estrogen receptors. Genistein stimulates these receptors, but not as strongly as real estrogen; at the same time, it blocks estrogen itself from attaching. The net result is that when there is a lot of estrogen in the body, such as before menopause, genistein may partly block its effects. Since estrogen appears to increase the risk of various forms of cancer, regular use of genistein by pre-menopausal women might help reduce this risk. On the other hand, if there is little human estrogen present, such as after menopause, genistein can partly make up for it. This is one rationale for using genistein to prevent osteoporosis.
  • Genistein may have many other beneficial effects as well. In test tube studies, genistein has been found to inhibit the growth of cancers-not only those that feed on estrogen (such as some types of breast cancer) but also those that do not. In addition, it is a potent antioxidant. Along with other soy isoflavones, it appears to lower cholesterol and may help prevent the development of atherosclerosis.
  • There is a possibility that genistein may also reduce symptoms of menopause, although most of the evidence we have for this effect involves mixed isoflavones from soy.
    
    
  • Genistein is found in high quantities in soy and in negligible quantities in a few other foods. Most soy foods contain about 1 to 2 mg of genistein per gram of protein.
    
    
  • The optimum dosage of genistein is unknown. In Asia, population groups who eat soy foods daily containing 20 to 80 mg of genistein [so my 56 mg/day may make sense] have lower rates of breast and prostate cancer than do groups in the West with less genistein in their diets. However, we don't know whether genistein alone is responsible for this lower rate of cancer. Other factors besides isoflavones may be involved.
    
    
  • Studies in animals have found soy isoflavones including genistein essentially nontoxic.
    
    
  • However, because of its effects on estrogen, there are at least theoretical concerns that genistein may not be safe for women who have already had breast cancer. While most test tube and animal studies have found that genistein inhibits cancer growth, some animal studies indicate that various forms of genistein might stimulate breast cancer cells under certain conditions. In addition, evidence from one highly preliminary study in humans found changes suggestive of increased breast cancer risk after women took a commercial soy protein product. Therefore, women who have had breast cancer, or are at high risk for it, should consult a physician before taking genistein or any other isoflavone product.
• the Moyad book suggests caution and argues that there are no convincing studies as to the efficacy of soy isoflavone supplements

Vitamin A

• see the general discussion about vitamin A and Beta-Carotene from the "LernerChoices" book extracted under the Beta-Carotene discussion note above.
• The MurrayOnImmune book suggests a daily dosage of 5,000 to 10,000 IU (I take 4,950 in my cod liver oil) but he adds: "Beta carotene can be used instead and may offer some benefits greater than vitamin A" (p.63). (and I take 25,000 IU of Beta-Carotine)
• The VanderhaegheOnImmune book suggests 5,000 IU daily (what I am taking in cod liver oil).
• The VanderhaegheHealthy book discusses the benefits of Vitamin A (pp.87 & 88; she also indicates some toxicity can occur at high doses over 50,000 IU; she recommends a daily dose of 10,000 IU -- I am only taking 4,950 IU of Vitamin A itself (in cod liver oil) but also 25,000 IU of Beta Carotene -- so I expect in total that is OK
• the the MindellBook also suggests a dosage of 10,000 IU if one is taking over 400 IU Vitamin E daily (which I am)
• from the NIH Clinical Center webpage at www.cc.nih.gov/ccc/supplements/vita.html:
  • they provide some discussion of the risks of excess vitamin A and set a tolerable upper limit for adults of 10,000 IU (the the MindellBook suggests the tolerable upper limit is closer to 50,000 IU -- on this basis, my dosage of 4,950 IU would seem completely safe
• but the Moyad book says should take solely from foods (from leafy vegetables and from fruit) and not from supplements

Vitamin B50 Complex

• discussed in a website at www.jamiesonvitamins.com
• Dr. John Lee says take Vitamin B complex and make sure it contains 50 mg B6 daily -- and my capsules do
• Dr. Andrew Weil suggests take no more and no less than 400 mcg/day (= 0.4 mg/day) -- and my capsules do (his point of not taking more is that it could mask a B12 deficiency)
• The "LernerChoices" book has some general comments about the B vitamins on pages 223 to 225 and emphasizes, if any component, B6 as having "been reported to be particularly effective in inhibiting melanoma cancer cells" (p.225). But he warns that "B vitamin supplementation should be approached with care" because B12 "can act both as a tumor promoter and a tumor-inhibitor" (p.246)
• VanderhaegheOnImmune book suggests 50 mg per day of Vitamin B6 (in a B complex) -- which, as far as the B6 component is concerned, is what I am taking
  • she says that "B6 deficiency is so common that everyone needs to supplement their diet with the nutrient" and that "more than 50 enzymatic reactions depend on vitamin B6" (p.36) and that "Immune enhancement relies upon adequate vitamin B6" and "without enough the thymus will shrink and a reduction in the amount of thymulin will result", crippling the army of the immune system (p.37).
  • Vanderhaeghe adds: "Magnesium is a cofactor required for vitamin B6 absorption ... if you use a nutritional supplement of B6, look for one with added magnesium" (p.37). I note that my "B50" complex does not contain added magnesium. -- See discussion of magnesium elsewhere.
  • The VanderhaegheHealthy book discusses the benefits of Vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, and Folic Acid on pp.88 to 93
    • she notes that B1 efficacy is reduced by sulphites, alcohol, and the tannins in coffee and tea (and so recommends reducing these as much as possible)
    • she suggests a 1 mg daily dose of Folic acid for maintenance (or more on a physician's recommendation) -- I note that there are 1 mg capsules around in the helath stores but I am sticking with the 400 mcg/day level as Dr. Weil recommends (above)
• from the NIH Clinical Center webpage at www.cc.nih.gov/ccc/supplements/vitb6.html:
  • this webpage argues that vitamin B6 is important to the immune functions but goes on to state that "supplements of this vitamin do not enhance them in well-nourished individuals"
  • they mention that the Institute of Medicine's upper tolerable limit is 100 mg/day -- so my 50 mg/day would appear safe
• from the NIH Clinical Center webpage at www.cc.nih.gov/ccc/supplements/vitb12.html:
  • suggests adults over 50 should get the B12 requirements from a supplement or from fortified foods because "10 to 30 percent of older people may be unable to absorb vitamin B12 in food"
  • they state that B12 has a very low potential for toxicity -- and do not seem to mention a tolerable upper limit
  • they do suggest that Folic acid not exceed 1,000 mcg per day (my dose is 400 mcg/day)
• one IWMF member commented: "For what it's worth my CAM MD cautions against vit B3 because it may be angiogenic" -- however, I note that the VanderhaegheHealthy book says:

  "Niacin [a form of vitamin B3] is excellent for cardiovascular health.... In addition, niacin plays a part in energy production, antioxidant mechanisms, and detoxification. It is also being investigated for possible anticancer properties." (p.90)

• I plan to ask my own doctor on this one.
  
  
• the Moyad book supports supplements of the B50 type (including 400 mcg of folic acid)

Vitamin C

• slightly controversial since one IWMF doctor says it feeds the cancer -- but this viewpoint is apparently not shared by all
• a useful comment from Davell Hayes on IWMF TalkList was:
  • "As far as Vitamin C being bad (as in naughty?) a discussion with my oncodoc said that there was one study which showed C being of harm. But he said the studies in favor of its use far outweigh this one. Still, I believe in moderation, and not megadoses"
• Dr. John Lee suggests: 1000 - 2000 mg/day (with a cold can take 5000 to 10,000 mg/day)
• Dr. Andrew Weil suggests 2000 mg -- my ND also suggested 2000 mg daily (whichI am now taking)
• The "LernerChoices" book devotes extensive discussion to vitamin C and the Linus Pauling controversy (on pages 225 to 237). When I was graduating in Organic Chemistry way back in 1956, Linus Pauling was God -- because of his work on the chemical bond (which doesn't prove, of course, that his views on vitamin C were correct). Since that time his advocacy of mega-doses of vitamin C has been both hailed and attacked. The bottom line, according to Lerner, is that there is some evidence that Vitamin C inhibits growth in human tumor cell lines and is helpful with radiation and chemotherapies (but some mixed results occurred with respect to leukemia).
• The MurrayOnImmune book suggests "the recommended level for immune building is 500 to 1,000 mg one to three times daily" (p.62), i.e., anywhere from 500 mg to 3,000 mg per day (I take 2,000 mg per day). Note that Murray goes on to say that "it is useful to take vitamin C with an equal amount of bioflavonoids since these compounds raise the concentration of vitamin C in some tissues and increase its beneficial effects" (p.62). (I used to take 1200 mg of quercetin (= bioflavonoids) daily so this would be in line with Murray's suggestion but I no longer do so [on the advice of my ND])
• the VanderhaegheOnImmune book suggests 1000 mg per day (half of what I am taking).
• the Moyad book suggests 250-500 mg once or twice daily (again only half my dosage) -- and mentions that interacts well with beta-carotene, selenium, and vitamin E

Vitamin D

• The VanderhaegheHealthy book discusses Vitamin D on pp.94-95 but does not suggest a dosage -- however, on p.68 she indicates that "minimal sunlight exposure will give us enough vitamin D" -- elsewhere on the same page she discusses Vitamin D toxicity brought on by excessive milk consumption
• from the NIH Clinical Center webpage at www.cc.nih.gov/ccc/supplements/vitd.html:
  • they mention that "the ability of skin to convert vitamin D to its active form decreases as we age" and that "therefore, some older Americans may need vitamin D from a supplement"
  • to avoid the toxicity of excess doses, they mention a tolerable upper intake level of 2,000 IU per day (I'm only taking 400 IU)
• the Moyad book agrees with 400 IU (my dosage) and says could even increase to 800 IU

Vitamin E

• note that Dr. Weil prefers:
  • he says: stay away from the synthetic dl-alpha-tocopherol -- instead go for natural E, or d-alpha-tocopherol, combined with other tocopherols (my Vitamin E, contained within the CoQ10 gels, is indeed the d-alpha-tocopherol but I no longer have the other tocopherols which previously I'd had in a separate Natural Factors Vitamin E capsule)
• but Andrew Weil says the 400 IU should be doubled to 800 IU if one is over 40 (so I have gone with the 800 IU suggestion -- in fact, I take 850 or 900 IU)
• the Moyad book is also in favour of a Vitamin E supplement -- though mentions a dosage anywhere from 100 IU to (more rarely) 800 IU daily
• The "LernerChoices" book states that Vitamin E "has a wide range of positive effects on cancer" including enhaning the effect of selenium and enhancing some chemotherapies and radiotherapy (p.246). It might be noted that Lerner emphasizes the alpha-tocopherol form of vitamin E (which is what is included in the form I take) and also wonders why mention of vitamin E is seldom made to patients undergoing cancer therapy ("stunning examples of the underutilization of scientific nutrition in cancer" p.238).
• The "LernerChoices" book suggests a daily dosage of 400 to 800 IU of natural Vitamin E (d-alpha tocopherol) (p.63). (My dosage of 850 or 900 IU is reasonably consistent with that.)
• VanderhaegheOnImmune book suggests 400 to 800 IU (and again my dosage of 850 IU is reasonably consistent with that.)
• from the NIH Clinical Center webpage at www.cc.nih.gov/ccc/supplements/vite.html:
  • they consider the risk of vitamin E deficiency to be rare
  • on the other hand, the health risk of too much vitamin E is also low -- they quote a tolerable upper intake level of 1,500 IU (my daily dose is 850 or 900 IU)

No longer taking (but discussed)

Ginseng

• from an article on www.nhir.com/tests/ginseng.pdf:
  • a continuing education module by Dorothea Rudorf, Pharm D, MS Assistant Professor of Clinical Pharmacy Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health
  • ginseng one of top herb sellers in U.S. ($86 mln in 1997)
  • in Asia an almost universal therapeutic agent, believed to improve vitality into old age and extend the human life span
  • in the U.S. currently regulated as a dietary supplement with no proven therapeutic properties -- no quality standards for ginseng products yet
  • the 2 major species are Panax ginseng (= Asian ginseng) and Panax quinquefolium L (= American ginseng) -- my bottle seems to be the latter (which is reasonable since the former is distributed in Asia and the latter in America)
  • the Greek word Panax refers to a goddess believed to "heal all"
  • prime ingredients are terpenoid saponin glycosides
• from the Botanical.com website at http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/g/ginsen15.html
  • synonyms: aralia quinquefolia, Five Fingers, Tartar Root, Red Berry, Man's Health
  • Panax from Greek Panakos (a panacea)
  • plant grows in rich woods throughout east and central NA, especially along the mountains from Quebec and Ontario, south to Georgia -- was used by American Indians
• The VanderhaegheHealthy book suggests 400 mg/day (200 mg twice daily) -- which in total is about the same as I was taking
• the Moyad book says that a common dose is 800-1000 mg/day (I was taking only 480 mg)

Iscador (Mistletoe)

• per www.Iscador.com/ website:
  • "The #1 prescribed complementary cancer treatment of mistletoe for more than 80 years.
  • "ISCADOR/ISCAR is a complementary rather than an alternative medicine. It is frequently prescribed in Europe by Medical Doctors including oncologists in addition to the conventional cancer therapies, radiation, surgery and chemotherapy."
  • in Germany 60% of cancer patients use some form of mistletoe preparation
  • available under the brand name ISCAR in the US from Weleda (a Swiss sub)
  • seem to be lots of medical studies on
• The "LernerChoices" book states that Iscador (extracted from mistletoe) is "the most widely used unconventional pharmacological agent for the treatment of cancer in Europe" adding that it is less widely used in the U.S. "Iscador is thought by proponents to have anticancer activity and to increase immune function". Lerner says there is considerable research literature "demonstrating antitumor activities or immunostimulation in experimental systems" but he is not aware of controlled clinical studies showing significant antitumor activity (p.602).
• The "BognarSurvival" book states that clinical studies in Europe "have shown Iscador effective in destroying cancer cells, preventing recurrences ... in solid cancers ... as opposed to cancers of bone marrow or lymph nodes" (p.93) -- I guess that leaves it more uncertain in the case of WM
• the University of Texas Center for Alternative Medicine Research in Cancer website at www.sph.uth.tmc.edu/utcam/summary/mistletoe.htm says:
  • "Mistletoe preparations are used to stimulate the immune system and to kill cancer cells. It has been reported to reduce tumor size and improve the quality of life and survival of some cancer patients."
  • as to method of taking, the site says: "Mistletoe is typically given by subcutaneous injection, ideally near the site of the tumor and avoiding irradiated areas. It is sometimes injected directly into the tumor" -- RJA note: but the situation obviously is different for bone marrow cancers where subcutaneous injection would perhaps be less relevant -- in any case, I was previously taking it orally as a tincture (45 drops per day in water)

Kombucha Tea

• went to website www.kombucha.org:
  • Kombucha culture is a symbiotic colony of yeast and bacteria (the friendly type) -- the tea is made by combining the culture with black tea (or green per others -- but Gunther Frank says black is best) and sugar -- the ingredients are allowed to ferment 7-10 days
  • benefits noticed: increased energy, sharper eyesight, better skin condition
  • says should limit initial intake to 2 oz twice daily (4 oz in total) -- say some users suffer discomfort from excessive use of K-Tea -- 4 oz = 120 cc, which is close to the 150 cc Antoon suggests
  • also contains some instructions about making your own
• went to The Kombucha Journal by Gunther Frank at www.kombu.de/english.htm:
  • sometimes wrongly called the Kombucha Mushroom
  • not a mushroom, more a colony of bacteria and yeast resembling a malformed jellyfish
  • re dosage Frank says:
    • You should find out for yourself what is the best dosage for your own needs. Each person is unique, with their own constitution and sensibilities and individual biological predisposition. I know of some people who only drink three liqueur glasses a day. On the other hand, there are others who drink larger quantities, including between meals as well, and who feel very well on it.
• some people make this themselves but the owner of our local health store recommends against it as she has seen people get very sick from drinking their own preparations that had gone bad
• I found the taste very potent on the back of my throat and used to dilute it in warm water before drinking
• the Moyad book suggets buy from store and don't try making it oneself (danger of contamination) -- but on balance doesn't recommend it "for now" and suggests green tea instead
• I stopped taking it because my ND said it was unnecessary for me and furthermore, after a couple of weeks, it generally caused diarrhea

Quercetin

• a Dr. John Lee suggests Quercetin of the bioflavonoids 500 mg 2*d -- when sick add bioflavonoid supplements
• the TNP.com website comments:
  • "A natural antioxidant found in red wine, quercetin protects cells in the body from damage by free radicals (naturally occurring but harmful substances). Heart disease and high cholesterol are thought to be at least partly caused by free radical damage to blood vessels, so it makes sense that quercetin might help protect against heart attacks and strokes. Quercetin belongs to a class of water-soluble plant coloring agents called bioflavonoids, a type of nutrient that we're learning more about all the time. Although they don't seem to be essential to life, it's likely that we need them for optimal health.
  • "Another intriguing finding is that quercetin may help prevent immune cells from releasing histamine, the chemical that initiates the itching, sneezing, and swelling of an allergic reaction. Based on this very preliminary research, quercetin is often recommended as a treatment for allergies and asthma."
  • later they suggest a dosage of 600 to 1200 mg/day (my dosage was 1200 mg/day)
• The MurrayOnImmune book suggests taking an amount of bioflavonoids equivalent to the daily dosage of Vitamin C since these compounds raise the concentration of vitamin C in some tissues and increase its beneficial effects" (p.62). (My pasr dosage of 1200 mg Quercetin relative to 1000 mg of Vitamin C would meet this suggestion approximately.)
• the Moyad book says recent studies of quercetin "are interesting"

Selenium Yeast

• note: Merck says that at high doses (over 900 µg/day, selenium produces a toxic syndrome consisting of dermatitis, loose hair, diseased nails, and peripheral neuropathy
• LEF (Life Extension Foundation) Magazine June 1997 (see http://www.lef.org/magazine/mag97/june-update97.html) found to reduce cancer mortality by 50%
• "Selenium has prevented and reversed spontaneous, chemically-induced, and transplanted tumors in a wide variety of animal studies. Large epidemiological studies have confirmed the activity of selenium in the field of cancer prevention, and several clinical trials have produced highly encouraging results."
• The Natural Pharmacist TNP.com encyclopedia (at http://www.tnp.com/encyclopedia/substance/213/712/) says: evidence indicates that supplemental selenium may help cancer -- selenium is required for a well-functioning immune system -- has been suggested for HIV but studies to date show mixed results
• says alternate names: selenite, selenomethionine, selenized yeast, selenium dioxide
• Life Extension's "Super Selenium Complex" says 1 capsule contains:
  • 100 mcg selenium from sodium selenate
  • 50 mcg selenium from selenomethionine - Nutrition 21
  • 50 mcg selenium from selenodiglutathione
  • 30 IU Vitamin E
  • and suggests 1 capsule daily
  • elsewhere there is 2 oz dropper bottle of sodium selenite
• quote from http://www.dietitian.com/selenium.html:
  • You should note that intakes of beta-carotene above 20 mg per day would probably turn your skin yellow, most notably on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet and possibly the whites of your eyes. Please note that the retinol form of Vitamin A is toxic and should not be substituted for beta-carotene. The beta carotene form of Vitamin A is not toxic. The adult male RDA for Vitamin A is 1,000 RE (5,000 IU) per day, 10 IU of Vitamin E, 60 mg Vitamin C and 70 mcg of selenium.
• NIH state that RDA for men and women is 55 mcg of selenium -- and note that canned tuna 3-1/2 oz contains 78 mcg selenium
• but Dr. Andrew Weil takes 200 mcg/day -- but also points out that get 120 mcg in one Brazil nut -- and also some in tuna
• The "LernerChoices" book states that selenium has "broad anticancer effects" (p.239) and has been shown "to prevent or retard tumorigenesis induced by virtually all the major known carcinogens" (p.240). Lerner also discussed the role of zinc but ends up suggesting that normally it is better to stick to selenium -- e.g., "cancer patients should be particularly cautious with zinc, since it is a selenium antagonist" (p.242).
• The VanderhaegheOnImmune book suggests 100 mcg per day (on p.41) but elsewhere states "Selenium should be supplemented in does of 100 mcg to 200 mcg daily to enhance immune function" (p.30) so I am in that range -- her book contains a description of the benefits of selenium and a reference to a couple of studies (pp.29 & 30)
• The VanderhaegheHealthy book suggests 100 mcg daily
• the Moyad book also suggests 200 mcg/day (as I was taking)
• I stopped taking because my ND said it was interfering with other remedies or supplements I was taking -- but I wonder about this in view of all the recommendations above

Thymus Concentrate

• see the Echinacea discussion about whether I should find a source of Thymus concentrate not containing echinacea
• for example, a source from Vitaline is described on www.vitaline.com/3020.htm -- 200 mg capsules but I'm not sure what the daily dose is or whether the "5:1" concentration changes things
• I need to find out more on this
• website at http://www.thearthritiscenter.com/thymogen.htm shows:
  • bovine Thymus concentrate in 200 mg tablets and says take 3 daily = 600 mg/day
  • this compares to my 1250 mg/day and Antoon's 1200 mg per day -- but perhaps this is for a different purpose?
• but in any case, I have, on the advice of my ND, stopped taking it

Trans-Resveratrol

• TNP website at http://www.tnp.com/encyclopedia/substance/211/ says:
  • there are no well-documented principal proposed uses for
  • but other proposed uses include heart disease and cancer prevention
  • resveratrol is an ingredient of red wine that may in part explain the "French paradox" (Quercetin is another such ingredient)
  • resveratrol is a polyphenol, a natural antioxidant that protects against free radicals -- has some estrogenic effects
  • can't be certain of dosages since no clinical studies -- but reasonable guess might be 500 mg/day -- note: AV suggestion is 300 mg/day -- so in the same ballpark
  • very preliminary evidence of preventing heart disease and preventing cancer
  • has some estrogenic effects (so that's why have trans-resveratrol in women's section in my local Cobourg Health Shop)
  • "a phytoestrogen found in red wine"
  • another article talks about "Effect of trans-resveratrol, a natural polyphenolic compound, on human polymorphonuclear leukocyte function"
• a good article at http://www.quackwatch.com/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/DSH/resveratrol.html
• VitaNet website sells Resveratrol 50 mg 60 capsules (calls "Natrol Resveratrol")
• from Inno vite website at www.inno-vite.com/:
  • Long valued for its antioxidant, cardio-protectant and antimutagenic properties, recent research shows that trans-Resveratrol is a powerful plant estrogen (phytoestrogen) that helps women reduce hot flashes, balance mood swings and promote healthy bone density.
• From website at http://www.smart-drugs.net/product-info/info-resveratrol.html
  • As early as the 1920's Dr. Johanna Brandt wrote a book proclaiming that grapes cured her of cancer. Since then it has been known that there are several beneficial substances in grapes (wine also of course) that assist in lowering cholesterol, reduce the risk of heart disease and have antioxidant abilities.
  • Resveratrol (chemical formula 3,5,4'-trihydroxy-trans-stilbene) is mainly found in the skin of young unripe red grapes.
  • Animal studies suggest that Resveratrol can prevent the initiation of cancer and can inhibit the promotion and progression of cancer.
  • It should be noted that another chemical exists within the grape that is 3,5,4'-trihydroxy-cis-stilbene and that it can also be called Resveratrol. However the -cis- version is not as active as the -trans- version that we offer. IAS's trans-Resveratrol is made by DEDI of Florida, a company synonymous with producing pharmaceuticals and very high quality supplements regardless of cost. We don't believe there is a better quality Resveratrol available anywhere than this brand.
  • Beware of other Resveratrols marketed with large capsule dosages such as 50mg, 200mg or even greater. Pure Resveratrol is a difficult and hence expensive substance to produce and what is more clinical trials have normally only used 5,10 or 15mg daily in the trials.
    
    
  • Specifically trans-Resveratrol can help inhibit all three stages of cancer by:
    1. Inducing quinone reductase activity, an enzyme that is capable of detoxifying carcinogens.
    2. Inhibiting cyclo-oxygenase, a substance that causes the production of prostaglandins that stimulate tumor growth, suppress the immune system and activate carcinogens.
    3. Inducing the expression of nitroblue tetazolium reduction activity, a marker of non-specific acid esterase activity and macrophage formation.
  • Furthermore trans-Resveratrol can inhibit the development of cardiovascular disease. This is performed through its ability as an antioxidant to inhibit platelet aggregation and eicosaniod synthesis and its ability to modulate lipoprotein metabolism.
  • Resveratrol doses for inhibition (i.e. assistance in the prevention) of cancer and cardiovascular disease are 5mg or 10mg daily. Doses for the treatment of the same are 15mg to 30mg daily.
  • Caution; Anyone who suffers from platelet deficiency or blood-clotting difficulties or taking blood thinning drugs should only use Resveratrol under medical supervision.
  • "Resveratrol inhibits cellular events associated with tumor initiation, promotion and progression." M. Jang et. al "Cancer chemo-preventative activity of resveratrol, a natural product derived from grapes." Science 275, 218-220 (1997)
    
    
  • from an article by James South
    • CONCLUSION FOR BLOOD
      Thus, a combination of resveratrol, quercetin , vitamin E, vitamin C, and the trace mineral selenium may be expected to have a highly synergistic effect in reducing pathological platelet aggregation (thrombogenesis), maximizing PGI2/minimizing TXA2 (thus dilating arteries for healthy blood flow as well as opposing platelet aggregation) and minimizing free radical damage/disruption to blood vessel linings (i.e. preventing/minimizing atherogenesis).
      
      
    • ANTI-CARCINOGENIC PROPERTIES
      These same 5 compounds may also have a similarly beneficial effect in preventing cancer, or even aiding in its cure.
      
      
    • USES AND DOSES
      A simple yet elegant and potent anti-heart attack/anti-cancer program may thus be constructed from the 5 synergistic nutrients: resveratrol, quercetin , vitamin E, vitamin C and selenium.
      
      
    • Recommended dosages:
      • 1-10mg trans-resveratrol, 3 times daily (=3 to 30 mg)
        • my bottle recommends 2 caps daily = 4 mg (which is what I'm taking)
      • 100-500mg quercetin, 4 times daily (=400 to 2000 mg)
        • my bottle recommends 600 mg 1-3*d and I'm taking 600 mg 2*d (=1200 mg)
      • 100-400 IU d-alpha tocopherol or d-alpha tocopheryl succinate (vitamin E), once daily with a fat-containing meal
        • I'm taking 800 IU since Dr. Weil suggests double the normal 400 if over age 40
      • 250-1000mg ascorbate (vitamin C) 4 times daily (=1000 to 4000 mg)
        • I'm taking 1000 mg/day (2 * 500)
      • 100mcg once daily, or 50-100mcg twice daily, selenium as l-selenomethionine and/or sodium selenate
        • I was taking 100 mcg/day (= 50 mcg twice daily)
• on the advice of my ND, I stopped taking

Have never taken (but discussed)

Echinacea

• The "MurrayOnImmune" book advocates Echinacea for fighting colds etc. but notes:

  "The question whether echinacea should be used on a long-term or continual basis has not been adequately answered. The usual recommendation with long-term use is 8 weeks on followed by one week off. Research suggests that the people most likely to benefit from using echinacea for prevention are those with weaker immune systems who are more prone to infection. Therefore I do not recommend echinacea as a daily preventative measure for people with healthy immune function unless they are facing increased exposure to viruses or stress." (p.75)

• many other books make similar statements -- for example, the VanderhaegheHealthy book states that while "Three double-blind placebo-controlled trials have shown that when echinacea is taken as prescribed, it shortens the duration of colds and flu" (p.119), "the German commission E, the bible for herbs, states that echinacea should not be taken over the long term" (p.39). Earlier she gives a technical explanation of how echinacea in the short-term stimulates macrophages that make immune cells better killing machines but that in the long term it can promote a "a cascade of inflammatory responses" (p.38).
• I was therefore currently wondering whether I should not replace my past source of Thymus concentrate (NaturPharm's "Defense Factors" -- which give me, in addition to the Thymus concentrate, 500 mg of echinacea per day) with an alternative source which contains Thymus concentrate alone -- but in the end, on the advice of my ND, I stopped taking Thymus concentrate anyway
• in a FAQ sheet by Ellen Coleman, RD, MA, MPH at www.hcrc.org/faqs/echinac.html the comment is made that "it has not been conclusively established that echinacea increases resistance to infection"
• in an article on www.healthy.net/asp/templates/article.asp?PageType=article&ID=1886 the statement is made:

  "However, for the maintenance of a healthy immune system, echinacea is most wisely used periodically--a few weeks on, and a few weeks off, throughout the year. Echinacea is not a tonic in all aspects; granted that it has been observed to stabilize the production of neutrophils, such tonic action has not been observed on other immune factors, such as properdin production. In the absence of conclusive experimental findings, it is both safe and wise to assume that the constant, unremitting use of echinacea could be stressful on certain aspects of the immune system. During breaks, the immune system will adapt and increase in natural strength."

• the website at ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/5000/5408.html says: "Chronic use of echinacea may suppress the immune system or potentially cause liver damage. So the recommendation is not to use it for more than eight weeks at a time."

Essiac

• Essiac tea was first used in Canada in the 1920s by a nurse named René Caisse
• some controversies exist over its use -- many people feel that it has not properly acknowledged by the main stream (and indeed that some contrary reports twisted the evidence to suit their opposition) -- some IWMF members take it
• the Moyad book says the author remains unconvinced and suggests sticking simply to green tea (one cup per day)
• on the advice of my ND, I am not taking this

Fos-A-Dophilus (acidophilus etc.)

• nothing as yet -- I did not find anything supporting the FOS component (fructooligosaccharides) -- though it may exist -- but have decided to switch to straight Acidophilus

Glutathione

• I am not taking as yet
• the VanderhaegheOnImmune book suggests at least 75 mg per day
• she says that "no other antioxidant is as important to overall health as glutathione ... it is the regenerator of immune cells and the most valuable detoxifying agent in the body" (p.35).-- she says use the "reduced L-glutathione" form
• however, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli contain glutathione -- and the richest food sources are watermelon and avocado -- so it may be that a balanced diet includes enough of this nutritionally without requiring a supplement? (I'm not sure)
• on the advice of my ND, I am not taking this

Magnesium

• not currently taking, but maybe I should
• the VanderhaegheOnImmune book suggests 100 mg per day
• she says that "although magnesium is not a clear immune-enhancing nutrient, ... it is responsible for more than 300 enzymatic reactions in the body.... Supplementation lowers blood pressure, prevents diabetes, keeps bones strong and extends life".
• at one point (p.38) she recommends 350 mg per day but in another (p.41) she says 100 mg per day -- she also states that "calcium and potassium should also be supplemented along with magnesium as these nutrients work synergistically" (p.38)
• The VanderhaegheHealthy book suggests (for cancer) 500 mg daily (p.181)
• on the advice of my ND, I am not taking this

PSK (Polysaccharide K)

• Summary of points made on http://www.philsteinberg.com/byrec/22.html:
  • as adjuvant therapy to chemotherapy for acute leukemia etc suggests 3 gm/day = 5*625 mg capsules per day
  • but later says that "for general preventative purposes, one might use 1 capsule twice daily" = 2 capsules/day = 1.2 gm/day (1250 mg/day)
  • at 2 capsules per day a 150 capsule bottle would last 75 days and 3 bottles would last 225 days
  • Wildfire Consulting offers three 150-625 mg capsules for US $360 (Cdn $540) per 225 days or Cdn $880 per year (US $590 per year) -- free shipping and handling
  • Coriolis versicolor extract - VPS ( = PSK) distributed by Wildfire Consulting -- call 1-888-583-3532 (9 am - 3 pm Mon-Thurs CST)
• Details taken from http://www.philsteinberg.com/byrec/22.html:
  • Wildfire Natural Products
    Featuring author Phil Steinberg
    
    
  • (PSK) VPS - Coriolus versicolor - Standardized Extract
    
    
  • (PSK) VPS -Coriolus versicolor - standardized extract Clinically Proven Adjunctive Treatment For Cancer
    
    
  • Following is general information and pricing on this exciting product, an all-natural non-toxic extract from the mushroom, Coriolus versicolor, standardized to contain a minimum concentration of 35% polysaccharides, including beta 1,3, beta 1,4 and beta 1,6 glucans.
    
    
  • Only available in Japan until now, where it has been trademarked as PSK, Coriolus versicolor extract is one of the most thoroughly researched all-natural products with proven benefit in cancer therapy. For the past 20 years, PSK has been widely used as an immuno-therapeutic agent, both by itself, and in conjunction with other conventional therapies. Significant immune system benefit has been clearly demonstrated in dozens of published clinical studies.
    
    
  • Colon Cancer- PSK Alone
    Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial - 110 Patients After Curative Surgery for Colorectal Cancer - 10-Year Study
    
    
  • This study found that when compared with the control group, the leukocyte activity of the PSK group showed "remarkable enhancement." It was concluded that "the beneficial effects (of PSK) were probably due to the activation of leukocyte functions as one of the many biological-response-modifying activities induced by PSK."
    
    
  • In this study the increase in survival rate and disease free period after oral administration of PSK was found to be "statistically significant" when both rates were doubled over those of the control group.
    
    
  • Lung Cancer - PSK as Adjuvant Therapy after Radiotherapy
    185 Patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Stages I-III - 10-Year Study
    
    
  • The use of PSK as immunotherapy in combination with radiotherapy was examined based on the recognized ability of PSK to "inhibit disorders of cellular immunity attributed to anti-cancer drugs," and in doing so to "counteract the adverse effects of these drugs."
    
    
  • The "five year survival rate of the patients (who received PSK) with stages I or II disease, as well as stage III was 39% and 22% respectively, compared with the non-administered (no PSK) group's 16% and 5%. These differences are statistically significant."
    
    
  • Breast Cancer - PSK as Adjuvant Therapy with Chemotherapy
    Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial - 227 Patients with Operable Breast Cancer Immuno-chemotherapy vs Chemotherapy - 10-Year Study
    
    
  • The use of PSK together with chemotherapy was explored with results indicating that PSK protects "against the suppression of immuno-activity which is caused by the administration of anti-cancer drugs," by "stimulation of the immuno-activity of the host."
    
    
  • In this study the survival rate of the group that took PSK with chemotherapy was 81.1% after 10 years. The survival rate of the group that used chemotherapy alone was 64.5%. The study concluded that Immuno-chemotherapy with PSK "improved the prognosis of patients with operable breast cancer with vascular invasion."
    
    
  • Gastric Cancer - PSK as Adjuvant Therapy with Chemotherapy
    Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial - 262 Patients after Curative Gastrectomy Immuno-chemotherapy vs Chemotherapy - 5 Year Study
    
    
  • The benefit to the immune system of combining PSK with chemotherapy was attributed to "a restorative effect in patients who have been immuno-suppressed by both recent surgery and subsequent chemotherapy."
    
    
  • In this study, published in Lancet, the survival rate of the group that took PSK with chemotherapy was 73% after 5 years. The survival rate of the group that used chemotherapy alone was 60%. The study concluded that combining PSK with chemotherapy was "beneficial for preventing recurrence of cancer and in prolonging survival for patients who have undergone curative gastrectomy."
    
    
  • Acute Leukemia - PSK as Adjuvant Therapy with Chemotherapy
    Control Group Study - 28 Patients - Immuno-chemotherapy vs Chemotherapy
    
    
  • This study found that "the durations of complete remission and survival in the chemo-immunotherapy group showed significant prolongation compared to that of the chemotherapy group." This study also indicates that PSK enhances depressed immune systems without abnormal stimulation to immune cancers.
    
    
  • Dosage
    • The majority of studies, including the ones cited in this letter, used a dosage of 3 grams of PSK per day for two full years after the subjects cancer was in remission. In some of the studies, a declining dosage was continued after 2 years of disease free health. Each capsule of our Coriolus extract contains 625 mg, requiring 5 capsules daily to equal the 3 gram dosage. It is recommended that the daily dose be split between morning and evening, taking 3 capsules in the morning and 2 capsules in the evening, as close to 12 hours apart as possible, preferably on an empty stomach or with a light meal. In cases where the cancer has metastasized beyond its primary location, the amounts may be increased up to as much as 10 capsules per day. For general preventative purposes, one might use 1 capsule twice daily
    
    
    
  • Absorption
    • The extract is absorbed, in its original form, through the intestinal tract and into the bloodstream. It is distributed throughout the body but shows higher concentrations in the bone marrow, salivary, lymph and hormonal glands, the brain, spleen, and liver, and tumors. It has an 18 hour half-life and is eliminated in 72 hours, primarily through respiration.
    
    
    
  • Price
    • Wildfire Consulting is proud to be able to offer standardized Coriolus versicolor extract at a fraction of the price being charged on the Japanese market, which there, is covered by medical insurance and costs between $1000 - $1200 for a 30 day supply. The suggested retail price in the U.S. is $149.95 to $169.95 per bottle of 150-625mg capsules, a 30 day supply at the recommended dosage. We are happy to be able to offer this exciting product at the discounted price of only $129.95 or 3 for only $359.85.
    
    
    
  • Including Coriolus extract as an adjunctive nutritional supplement in your diet, can provide enormous potential benefit for maintaining or improving immune system health, with virtually no risk. You will appreciate the years of study and research that are behind Coriolus versicolor and the proven results that have come with regular use. You, will also appreciate that as a non-toxic food product, this extract can be safely used in almost any nutritional or therapeutic health management plan.
    
    
  • Coriolus versicolor extract - VPS from JHS Natural Products
    is distributed by Wildfire Consulting and may be ordered by calling toll free 1-888-583-3532
    
    
  • References:
    1. Torisu, M., et al. (1990). Significant prolongation of disease-free period gained by oral polysaccharide K (PSK) administration after curative surgical operation of colorectal cancer. Cancer Immunology Immunotherapy 31(5),261-268.
    2. Hayakawa, K., et al. (1993). Effect of Krestin (PSK) as Adjuvant Treatment on the Prognosis after Radical Radiotherapy in Patients with Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer. Anticancer Research 13,1815-1820.
    3. Llino, Y., et al. (1995). Immuno-chemotherapies vs Chemotherapy as Adjuvant Treatment after Curative Resection of Operable Breast Cancer. Anticancer Research 15, 2907-2912.
    4. Nakazato, H., et al. (1994). Efficacy of Immuno-chemotherapy as Adjuvant Treatment after Curative Resection of Gastric Cancer. Lancet 343,1122-1126.
    5. Nagao, T., et al. (1981). Chemo-immunotherapy with Krestin (PSK) in Acute Leukemia. Tokai J EXP Clin Med.6(2), 141-146.
    6. Torisu, M., et al. (1990). Significant prolongation of disease-free period gained by oral polysaccharide K (PSK) administration after curative surgical operation of colorectal cancer. Cancer Immunology Immunotherapy 31(5), 261-268.
    7. Ikuzawa, M., et al. (1988). Fate and Distribution of an Antitumor Protein-Bound Polysaccharide PSK (Krestin). International Journal of Immunopharmacology 10(4),415-423.
• Re Shiitake extract as a temporary substitute for PSK:
  • website at http://www.shiitakecenter.com/health/health.html says:
    • antifungal, anti-tumor, and antiviral effects
    • one of the most popular sources of protein in Japan and a major staple in China Lentinan, which is the name given a highly purified polysaccharide fraction extracted from Shiitake mushrooms, is an approved drug in Japan. It is generally administered by injection and has been used as an agent to prolong survival of patients in conventional cancer therapy as well as in AIDS research. Lentinan is commercially available for clinical use. In 1987, it was the 8th top-selling anti-cancer drug in Japan. Lentinan is not only useful for cancer treatment, but may also prevent the increase of chromasomal damage induced by anti-cancer drugs. Additionally, Shiitake contains all eight essential amino acids in better proportions than soy beans, meat, milk, or eggs as well as a good blend of vitamins and minerals including vitamins A, B, B12, C, D and Niacin. Shiitake produces a fat-absorbing compound which aids in weight reduction. Delicious to eat and good for you
  • but note that Dr. Valstar has removed the shiitake extract from the list of supplements that Antoon is taking because, as I understand it, while the medical evidence for the efficacy of PSK is encouraging, the medical evidence for its cousin shitaake is very mixed
  • The "LernerChoices" book reports that the theory behind the "Block diet" (developed by Keith Block) includes a comment that "compounds in shiitake mushrooms . . . have been shown to have potent anti-cancer properties, even at relatively low levels of dietary intake" (p.346).
• The VanderhaegheHealthy book recommends 2-6 g of PSK daily (1-2 g three times daily) -- this is a quite a bit larger dose than the 1.2 g/day suggested as a general preventative dose by the Wildfire website (above) and this larger dose might raise the question of affordability
• on the advice of my ND, I am taking neither the Shiitake extract nor PSK

Sterinol (as a generator of DHEA)

• The VanderhaegheOnImmune book advocates the use of DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) as an antiaging nutrient -- "this super hormone is secreted by the adrenal glands, then converted into several other hormones required by the body -- testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, androstenedione, estradiol and estrone" (p.38). -- the body makes DHEA but its ability to do so diminishes as we age -- "sexual dysfunction, muscle shrinkage, memory loss, degenerative diseases and poor immune function are only some of the problems that scientists feel are associated with the loss of this potent hormone" (p.39).
• she adds: "For those who live in Canada and cannot purchase DHEA due to government restrictions in the sale of the product, Sterinol is a precursor to pregnenolone, which is then converted into DHEA ... one capsule 3 times daily is recommended" -- she goes on to say that DHEA can have some side effects but that Sterinol does not cause these side effects as the body will only convert the amount of DHEA it needs" (p.40).
• elsewhere she talks about the anti-tumor activity of sterinol (p.107)
• she adds:

  "Sterinol is such a powerful immune modulator, all cancer patients should include it in their cancer treatment program. Sterinol does not have any known drug interactions with current conventional cancer therapies; neither have safety studies on Sterinol shown any side effects from the product. It has also been shown to enhance the activity of interferon cancer treatments. Sterinol is safe, affordable and extremely effective at boosting the immune system. We believe it to be a super-immune supplement. To date, nothing compares to it."

• the Moyad book tends to be against DHEA
• on the advice of my ND, I am not taking this

Zinc

• The VanderhaegheOnImmune book suggests 15 mg of zinc daily (p.41). She states that a healthy thymus gland is critical to a healthy immune system and that "zinc is the most important mineral to the thymus gland" (p.28) -- the VanderhaegheHealthy book suggests (for cancer) 30 mg daily (p.181)
• However, the "LernerChoices" book, while acknowledging the role of zinc, ends up suggesting that normally it is better to stick to selenium -- e.g., "cancer patients should be particularly cautious with zinc, since it is a selenium antagonist" (p.242).
• for the moment, therefore, I am not taking any zinc supplements -- and, in any case, my ND said it was unnecessary for me

Other possibilities suggested by an IWMF member

• Maitake Mushroom D fraction (Griffon-Pro)
• AHCC (active hexase correlated compound, from mushrooms)
• Ukrain (a derivative of celandine)
• he adds the following comment:

  "The urgent question that has to be asked and answered in every case is: DOES A GIVEN SUBSTANCE STIMULATE THE IMMUNE SYSTEM BY STIMULATING B CELL ACTIVITY? If the answer is affirmative, it is not for us. Unfortunately, I have not been able to find out in most cases. AHCC may work in this way. But Ukrain probably does not in view of the fact that it works like highly selective chemotherapy, and I have had very good results with it (the Austrian and Russian sources have proved unreliable, however). IP-6 seems a good option, to judge by my experience with it, although it decreases platelets."

• of his suggestions, my ND recommended only the IP6 (which I am now taking)

Questions as yet unresolved

• primarily I would like professional medical advice as to my own regimen, since everyone's situation is different -- my ND has reviewed the list and made recommendations, which I have implemented (as noted above) -- I am still hoping that some day I can find additional source of advice on cancer-related supplements
• wondering whether it is really right to have discontinued selenium when so many authorities recommend it (see Selenium discussion) -- but my ND said it would interfere with other remedies or supplements I was taking
• considering whether should stop Beta-Carotene and Vitamin A supplements and get entirely from food as the Moyad book suggests
• had considered the possibility of Essiac tea -- but my ND recommended against -- maybe one should just stick with green tea as the Moyad book suggests
• still wondering whether should have temporarily discontinued the Lecithin supplement or not -- see Lecithin discussion
• should I simply eliminate the Cod Liver Oil? -- Beta-Carotene may be the better and safer source of Vitamin A and the Vitamin D (400 IU) could be taken separately (if at all)
• should any other of the "no long taking" supplements be reinstated? should any of the "have never taken" supplements be started; are any of the "currently taking" supplements unnecessary?