Dr. Gabrielle Lyon interviews Joe Zundell, PhD in cancer biology, discussing various topics including lowering cancer risk, the role of diet in cancer, benefits of urolithin A, complexities of cancer, risks of pesticide consumption, importance of fruits and vegetables for colon cancer prevention, early detection and personalized therapy, understanding remission in cancer, exploring alternative cancer treatments, and the relationship between cooking methods and cancer risk.
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Quick takeaways
Early detection of cancer through validated tests and consultation with healthcare professionals significantly improves survival rates.
Natural supplements or approaches should not be considered as standalone treatments for cancer; FDA-approved therapies and personalized treatment plans are essential.
Incorporating a diverse range of nutrients through a balanced diet and considering certain supplements can support overall health and wellbeing, potentially reducing the risk of cancer.
Deep dives
Understanding the complexity of cancer
Cancer is a complex disease that involves a combination of genetic and environmental factors. It is not caused by one specific food or chemical. The progression and mechanisms of cancer are highly diverse and can vary between individuals and cancer types.
Importance of early detection and screening
Early detection of cancer significantly improves the chances of survival. Tests like the Grail test, which identifies DNA methylation patterns, can help detect cancer at an early stage. However, it is essential to rely on validated tests and consult healthcare professionals for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Therapeutic options and caution regarding alternative treatments
While there is ongoing research on various therapeutic options for cancer, such as targeted therapies and immunotherapies, it is crucial to be cautious of alternative treatments without scientific evidence. Some natural supplements or approaches may have potential, but they should not be considered as standalone treatments. It is important to rely on FDA-approved therapies and work closely with healthcare professionals to develop personalized treatment plans.
Risk reduction and lifestyle factors
Engaging in a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, consuming a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight, can help reduce the risk of cancer. While specific foods or supplements may not prevent cancer, incorporating a diverse range of nutrients through diet and considering certain supplements like protein or electrolytes can support overall health and well-being.
Using plant extracts to derive compounds for cancer treatments
Scientists often look to nature to find compounds for cancer treatments. For example, pachyclotaxal is derived from a Pacific Yew tree. By isolating and testing various components of plant extracts, researchers can determine which compounds have anti-cancer effects.
Understanding the relationship between carbohydrates and cancer growth
The relationship between carbs and cancer growth is complex and context-dependent. While it is true that cancer cells often have a higher uptake of glucose, fueling their growth, the impact of carbs on cancer growth varies depending on the type of cancer. In certain contexts, lower carbohydrate diets, such as ketogenic diets, may be helpful in improving cancer patient outcomes.
Dr. Joe Zundell received his PhD in cancer biology through the University of the Sciences and The Wistar Institute in Philadelphia, PA. As a cancer biologist he has over 10 years of cancer research experience. Much of his published research has focused on finding new therapies for the treatment of many different cancer types upon epigenetic and metabolic characteristics of cancers. Currently, he is a Research Scientist at a biotherapeutic company near Philadelphia where he is examining Immunotherapies for treating cancers. Joe aims to develop and characterize therapies to enhance cancer patient outcomes. Secondly, he aims to produce educational tools to enable better scientific understanding and instructing. Thirdly, and lastly, he aims to have his own lab with his own projects to progress cancer research.
In this episode we discuss:
What causes cancer.
How can you lower your risk of cancer?
The food and lifestyle practices that actually make a difference.
Can supplements prevent cancer?
This episode is brought to you by Better Help, Timeline Nutrition, Inside Tracker, 1stPhorm