Did you know it takes an Act of Congress to change the warning label on alcohol? It’s true! But even more crucial: how much alcohol does it take to increase your cancer risk? In this episode, Tina and Leah dive into the connection between alcohol and cancer, exploring why the Surgeon General is pushing for updated warning labels. Whether you’re sticking with your current habits or considering a mindful approach to drinking, this episode delivers eye-opening insights that might make you think twice before your next sip. Tune in to learn more!

Prior episode: Good for You? or Bad for You? Alcohol
Ireland's strong alcohol label stance
How acetaldehyde from alcohol ingestion forms in your body
Which cancers are linked to alcohol consumption?

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Did you know frankincense is from the Boswellia plant? Tina and Leah delve into frankincense's history, uses, and benefits, especially in integrative cancer care. They discuss how to test the purity of essential oils, the various therapeutic applications of frankincense, including its anti-inflammatory and potential anti-cancer properties, and the intricacies of using it safely.

ASCO Update on Boswellia
Aromatase Inhibitor induced arthritic pain - Boswellia, Lipoic acid, and MSM
Boswellia alongside radiotherapy for brain tumors
Boswellia for nerve pain
The role of Boswellia in post-radiation therapy for brain metastasis

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‘Tis the Season! Join Tina and Leah for a fascinating exploration of myrrh, the ancient resin with powerful medicinal properties. Discover how this biblical gift continues to prove its worth in modern medicine, from supporting oral health to promoting wound healing. The doctors examine the scientific evidence behind myrrh’s antiseptic properties and discuss emerging research on its potential anti-cancer effects.

Whether you're interested in natural medicine, science, or the intersection of traditional and modern healthcare, this episode offers valuable insights.

Maud Grieve's book, A Modern Herbal (published 1931)
Interaction with the medication Warfarin/Coumadin
The Complete German Commission E Monographs (link to Amazon; we may receive a small commission at no cost to you if you purchase)

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Gratitude is good for you, but we know it can sometimes be challenging too. Leah discusses the wide variety of responses from our community to a survey asking,  “Do you practice gratitude? If so, how?" Then, we look at the science, which shows exactly what improves by practicing gratitude. Spoiler: Some studies have proven measurable physical benefits, including living longer! So, thank you for reading this far. Now, please hit that play button!

Gratitude Defined and more... (from The Greater Good Science Center)
Gratitude studies show, at the very least, sleep improves
Gratitude has positive effects on cardiovascular health
Mayo Clinic's "Discover Gratitude" Program
Positivity Begets Positivity

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Sara Olsher, author of over 12 books and creator of Mighty and Bright, discusses  her experiences as a cancer survivor and a single mother. Her books help adults and children understand each other better during difficult times. The episode offers insights into the importance of honest communication with children about serious illnesses. The hosts also delve into Sara’s  products, which are designed to help implement some of the communication tools she has found useful with her own daughter. KOIN 6 News in Portland, Oregon, awarded Sara the Remarkable Woman Award for 2023, and Tina and Leah are happy to bring you the many ways she is helping both kids and adults manage life’s challenges.

Sara's Bio Page - links to social media, website, etc.
Sara’s website
Mighty and Bright website
KOIN6 News Remarkable Woman 2023 award

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Dr. Amy Rothenberg, a respected naturopathic physician and three-time cancer survivor, shares her story of multiple cancer diagnoses and treatments. Her most recent treatment was a stem cell transplant in 2024 for acute leukemia. Dr. Rothenberg gives valuable insights into integrative cancer care, the importance of gut health, and practical tips for caregivers. The conversation also emphasizes the significance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle and seeking open-minded, collaborative healthcare providers. Tune in for an informative and inspiring discussion on navigating cancer care holistically.

Link to Dr. Rothenberg's social media and website
Be The Match Program - Becoming a stem cell donor
What is a Stem Cell Transplant? NIH explanation
Tips for Caregivers of Patients — a guest blog post by Dr. Rothenberg
Understanding Cancer-Related Fatigue

Previous podcast episodes :
Cancer-Related Fatigue
Prebiotics (Microbiome stuff)
Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy

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There are many cancer-relevant headlines, and Tina and Leah cherry-picked a few you need to hear. Is using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to help you determine a treatment plan a good idea? You can get answers from ChatGPT, but are they reliable?  There are a few considerations, like source verification, addressing ethical considerations, and who you should (and should not trust to handle your medical information. Tina and Leah also discuss a recent study that found benzene in a third of available acne creams! Benzene is a well-known carcinogen. They also talk about the possible link between oral bacteria and head and neck cancers as they quote (and question) the party line regarding proper oral hygiene. Join us and see what you think of these timely topics!

Artificial Intelligence:
Don't believe the bots!
ChatGPT can't keep a secret

Oral microbiome and cancer(s):
US News and World Report: Gum disease can trigger cancer
The original study on oral microbiome and head and neck cancers
Put that toothbrush down! Why you should wait to brush after you eat
Acidity (esp. pH <5.6) leads to loss of enamel

Acne creams with benzoyl peroxide:
News release from the American Association for Cancer Researchers
Benzene found in a third of acne creams off the shelf from stores (the actual study)
Benzene is found in some canned and bottled beverages
A word from the beverage industry (2006)
The FDA's stance on benzene in beverages

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Move over "sitting" there's a "new smoking" in town. In this episode, Tina and Leah discuss the latest data on pesticides and cancer risk. One recent study showed the numbers look just as bad (and yes, society's denial of them just as strong) as the data on smoking and cancer risk from decades ago. The doctors share practical tips for minimizing exposure and suggest ways to minimize the effects of pesticide exposures that are nearly inevitable. Hey, we know this topic can be a bummer and a major inconvenience. That said, it's best to know the data to make healthy decisions for yourself. Societal changes may be slow, but there is plenty you can do while we wait for our society to make necessary changes for a less toxic world in general. Join us, we promise not to bum you out!

Pesticides are the new smoking; 69 pesticides named as carcinogenic
A more reader friendly version of the technical paper on pesticides and cancer risk
The Medscape article that spurred our discussion
Human Cancers: Known causes and prevention by organ site (IARC)
Environmental Working Group (EWG) guide on lowering intake of pesticides
Kristina Marusic, Environmental Health Journalist episode

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The news cycle is buzzing with how Elle MacPherson refused conventional treatment and cured herself of breast cancer naturally. While the media spins and influencers speculate, Tina and Leah talk about what they gleaned from a recent interview with Elle MacPherson on 60 Minutes Australia. They delve into the controversies surrounding natural versus conventional cancer treatments, including her decisions for self-care. The doctors also discuss the specifics of her diagnosis and the standard of care for her stage and type of cancer. There are many lessons from her story, so tune in for insights and opinions from two naturopathic docs who put Elle's story into perspective.

Prognostic and Predictive Value of Her2 status in DCIS
Understanding different types of DCIS
Elle MacPherson's book on Amazon (We may earn a commission at no cost to you if you buy the book using this link. Thank you for your support!)
Find local produce and farmers near you with Local Harvest 

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Dr. Wendy Garvin Mayo, distinguished nurse practitioner and healthcare leader, sits down with Tina and Leah to discuss how addressing stress can change your life. With over two decades of experience, Wendy shares her journey from an oncology nurse caring directly for patients to becoming a scientist with a large pharmaceutical company. Now, using the same techniques she teaches, she's found her place is helping people recognize and deal with stress. She founded Collaborative Cancer Care and The Stress Blueprint to help patients, their loved ones, and fellow healthcare professionals.

In this interview, we discuss stress management and emotional intelligence, offering strategies for dealing with stress. Wendy emphasizes finding joy and aligning with one's purpose using the "SHAPE" framework for sustainable stress management. Tune in for insights on revolutionizing mental health in oncology and practical stress-management tools.

Where to find more about Dr. Gavin-Mayo:
Link to her bio and all of her social media links
Collaborative Cancer Care: Revolutionizing Mental Health Care in Oncology
The Stress Blueprint
Her book, SHAPE Your Life: A 5-Step Blueprint for Sustainable Stress Management

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