Selenium in Cancer Therapy
According to researchers Maureen Keane and Daniella Chace in their book, What to Eat if You Have Cancer, selenium has been shown in animal studies to inhibit the formation of tumors and may slow their growth. It helps the body defend against free radicals. There is also evidence that it may be directly toxic to tumors. As is most trace minerals, selenium is found naturally in foods such as certain fish, barley, brown rice, and sunflower seeds. The ACS’s Guide to Complementary and Alternative Cancer Methods affirms selenium as a nutrient that may prevent the development and progression of cancer. Both animal and human studies suggest the selenium may play a role in lowering a person’s risk of developing cancer, and reducing death rates from cancer in those who already have the disease. Since selenium appears to be directly toxic to tumors, maybe researchers should be subjecting it to more laboratory scrutiny. Imagine something as natural and harmless as a trace mineral being discovered by medical science as a significant breakthrough in cancer treatment.
Unfortunately, hardly any potential breakthroughs outside the realm of conventional therapy are being seriously considered today. Until we see a new strategy for cancer treatment, the debilitating, toxic chemotherapy and radiation will continue to be the choice of conventional oncologists. Join with the Connie Thompson Foundation in supporting integrative oncology as the future of cancer treatment.
May 11th, 2009 at 15:39
Comment test, May 11, 2009