In her groundbreaking book "How to Starve Cancer," Jane McLelland presents a powerful and personal account of her battle with stage IV cancer. The book outlines a comprehensive approach that integrates conventional treatments with off-label drugs, supplements, and lifestyle changes to target cancer's metabolic pathways. McLelland’s approach is based on her experience as a cancer survivor and extensive research into the underlying mechanisms of cancer metabolism.
Key Takeaways:
Cancer as a Metabolic Disease:
McLelland emphasizes that cancer should not only be seen as a genetic disease but also as a metabolic one. A key study supporting this view is the work of Dr. Thomas Seyfried, whose research has shown that metabolic dysfunction plays a significant role in cancer development. His 2012 paper titled "Cancer as a Metabolic Disease" highlights the potential for targeting cancer metabolism as a therapeutic strategy.
The Metro Map:
The “Metro Map” concept is unique to McLelland’s book, where she outlines cancer's reliance on multiple fuel sources such as glucose, glutamine, and fatty acids. While the book is one of the first to popularize this concept, it draws on the metabolic theory of cancer, which is supported by researchers like Dr. Otto Warburg, who first described the Warburg effect—a phenomenon where cancer cells predominantly produce energy by glycolysis followed by lactic acid fermentation in the cytosol, rather than by a relatively energy-efficient oxidative phosphorylation.
Off-Label Drug Use:
McLelland discusses several off-label drugs, including metformin, which has been extensively studied for its anti-cancer properties. A 2013 review titled “Metformin and Cancer: An Existing Drug for Cancer Prevention and Therapy” in Oncology Letters highlights how metformin reduces insulin levels and has direct effects on tumor cells by activating the AMPK pathway and inhibiting mTOR signaling.
Dietary Strategies:
McLelland advocates for a ketogenic diet to reduce glucose availability to cancer cells. Research supporting the ketogenic diet in cancer therapy includes a 2017 study published in Frontiers in Nutrition titled “The Ketogenic Diet and Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: A Novel Approach to Brain Cancer.” The study shows how a ketogenic diet, combined with other therapies, can reduce tumor growth and increase survival rates.
Supplements and Natural Compounds:
The book suggests supplements such as berberine and curcumin for their potential to inhibit cancer pathways. A 2018 study in Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy titled “Berberine in the Treatment of Metabolic Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis” outlines the anti-tumor effects of berberine, particularly its ability to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and induce apoptosis.
Integrative Approach:
McLelland’s integrative strategy is designed to complement conventional treatments. This approach is supported by growing evidence, such as the 2020 review in Integrative Cancer Therapies titled “Integrative Oncology: Combining Natural Products with Conventional Cancer Treatment.” The review discusses how combining traditional and complementary therapies can improve outcomes and enhance the quality of life for cancer patients.
Actionable Information:
Understand the Metabolic Pathways:
Utilize McLelland’s “Metro Map” to better understand how cancer cells derive energy and how you can disrupt these pathways with diet, drugs, and supplements.
Consider Off-Label Drugs:
Explore the potential of off-label drugs like metformin and statins with your healthcare provider. These drugs are showing promise in targeting cancer’s metabolic weaknesses.
Adopt a Ketogenic Diet:
A ketogenic diet can help reduce glucose levels, potentially starving cancer cells. Consult with a nutritionist or oncologist to determine if this dietary approach is right for you.
Incorporate Intermittent Fasting:
Intermittent fasting may lower insulin levels and reduce nutrient availability to cancer cells. Consider implementing this strategy as part of a broader treatment plan.
Explore Supplements:
Supplements like berberine, curcumin, and resveratrol can complement your cancer treatment, but always discuss these options with your doctor.
Adopt a Holistic Approach:
A holistic strategy combining conventional and complementary therapies could offer a more robust defense against cancer. Stay informed and actively engage in your treatment plan.
Jane's Protocol:
The four pillars of Jane McLelland’s protocol in "How to Starve Cancer" are the foundational strategies she developed to disrupt cancer's growth by targeting its metabolic pathways. These pillars are:
Block Glucose:
Cancer cells often rely heavily on glucose (sugar) for energy through a process known as the Warburg effect. By reducing glucose availability, the protocol aims to starve cancer cells of their primary energy source. This can be achieved through dietary changes like a low-carbohydrate or ketogenic diet, and the use of certain drugs like metformin, which lowers blood glucose levels.
Block Glutamine:
Glutamine is an amino acid that cancer cells use as a fuel source, particularly when glucose is scarce. Blocking glutamine uptake or metabolism can inhibit cancer cell growth. Drugs like phenylbutyrate or the use of natural compounds like curcumin are recommended to target this pathway.
Block Fatty Acid Metabolism:
Cancer cells can also derive energy from fatty acids, especially when glucose and glutamine are restricted. Blocking fatty acid metabolism can further starve cancer cells. Statins (used to lower cholesterol) are suggested to inhibit this pathway, as they can block the synthesis of mevalonate, a precursor in fatty acid metabolism.
Block Autophagy:
Autophagy is a survival mechanism that cancer cells use to recycle components and sustain themselves in nutrient-deprived environments. By inhibiting autophagy, the protocol aims to deprive cancer cells of this survival strategy. Drugs like hydroxychloroquine, which is traditionally used for malaria, can be used to inhibit autophagy.
These four pillars are designed to work synergistically to cut off the various pathways that cancer cells use to obtain energy, thereby "starving" the cancer and reducing its ability to grow and spread. McLelland’s approach is highly personalized, requiring careful consideration and collaboration with healthcare professionals. You can sign up for Jane's online course here.
Supplements:
Jane McLelland recommends several supplements in "How to Starve Cancer" that can help target cancer's metabolic pathways and support overall health. Some of the key supplements she discusses include:
Berberine:
Berberine is a natural compound found in several plants. It has been shown to have anti-cancer properties by lowering blood glucose levels, similar to the drug metformin, and inhibiting the mTOR pathway, which is involved in cell growth and proliferation.
Curcumin:
Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. It can inhibit cancer cell proliferation and block the pathways involved in cancer cell survival, such as the NF-kB pathway.
Resveratrol:
Resveratrol is a polyphenol found in grapes, berries, and red wine. It has antioxidant properties and can inhibit cancer cell growth by targeting various pathways, including mTOR and NF-kB. It also has a role in blocking glucose metabolism.
Quercetin:
Quercetin is a flavonoid found in many fruits and vegetables. It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer effects. Quercetin can inhibit cancer cell growth and angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow).
Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA):
ALA is an antioxidant that helps to regenerate other antioxidants in the body. It has been shown to support mitochondrial function and can inhibit cancer cell growth by interfering with cancer cell metabolism.
Melatonin:
Melatonin, commonly known for its role in regulating sleep, also has anti-cancer properties. It can inhibit cancer cell proliferation, reduce angiogenesis, and enhance the effectiveness of conventional treatments like chemotherapy.
Vitamin D:
Vitamin D is crucial for immune function and has been linked to reduced cancer risk. Adequate levels of vitamin D can help inhibit cancer cell growth and support overall health during treatment.
Green Tea Extract (EGCG):
The active compound in green tea, EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), has anti-cancer properties. It can inhibit cancer cell growth, reduce angiogenesis, and support apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells.
N-Acetylcysteine (NAC):
NAC is a precursor to glutathione, a powerful antioxidant. It helps protect cells from oxidative stress and can support detoxification processes in the liver, which is particularly important during cancer treatment.
Sulforaphane:
Found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, sulforaphane has been shown to inhibit cancer cell growth and support the detoxification of carcinogens.
McLelland advises that these supplements should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, tailored to the individual’s specific cancer type and in consultation with a healthcare provider. Supplements can interact with conventional cancer treatments, so it's essential to have professional guidance when incorporating them into a regimen.
Conclusion:
How to Starve Cancer by Jane McLelland offers a unique and integrative approach to cancer treatment, combining conventional therapies with off-label drugs, dietary changes, and supplements. The book is a must-read for anyone looking to explore alternative strategies in the fight against cancer. However, it is crucial to approach these methods with caution and under the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider. Get your copy today!
For more detailed insights and resources, visit the author's website: https://www.howtostarvecancer.com/.
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