Prevent, alleviate, or heal disease—naturally.
Consult with our health coaches who will learn about your symptoms, habits, and goals.
Take personalized home health tests to discover potential root causes of any symptoms or conditions you may have.
Review your results in just days with our functional medicine doctors, nurses, and dietitians who will help you achieve optimal health.
Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a disease in which malignant cells form in the lining of the stomach. It's a condition that affects thousands worldwide and is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, making treatment more complicated. The journey through understanding and confronting stomach cancer begins with learning about its nature, prevalence, and the holistic ways to approach its treatment, emphasizing the role of natural and functional medicine in complementing conventional therapies.
The exact cause of stomach cancer is complex and multifaceted, involving genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. A significant risk factor is infection with Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), a type of bacteria that causes chronic inflammation and ulcers in the stomach lining. Other contributors include smoking, a diet high in salty and smoked foods, a family history of stomach cancer, long-term stomach inflammation (gastritis), persistent anemia, and stomach polyps.
Recognizing the signs and symptoms early on can lead to a more optimistic outcome. Common symptoms of stomach cancer include: - Persistent indigestion and heartburn - Trapped wind and frequent burping - Constantly feeling bloated after eating - Nausea and vomiting - A feeling of fullness after eating small amounts of food - Stomach pain - Unintentional weight loss - Blood in stool or black stool - Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Diagnosing stomach cancer typically involves a series of tests and procedures. It often starts with a thorough medical history and physical examination. Doctors may recommend: - Endoscopy to view the stomach lining directly and possibly perform a biopsy. - Imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI, or PET scans to identify the location and extent of the cancer. - Blood tests to check for specific markers that might indicate stomach cancer. Early diagnosis plays a crucial role in the effectiveness of treatment plans.
Prevention of stomach cancer can significantly hinge on lifestyle modifications such as quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet rich in fruits and vegetables, limiting the intake of smoked and salty foods, and managing body weight. Regular screenings and tests for H. pylori infection, especially in those with a family history of the disease, are also vital preventive measures. Treatment for stomach cancer typically involves conventional methods such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy drugs. However, the role of functional medicine and natural treatments in supporting these methods and improving the patient’s quality of life is gaining appreciation. Natural treatments for stomach cancer focus on strengthening the body's immune system and minimizing the side effects of conventional treatments. These can include: - Dietary interventions to enhance nutritional intake - The use of certain herbs and supplements, like turmeric, ginger, and green tea, which have shown anti-cancer properties in preliminary studies - Mind-body therapies such as yoga, meditation, and acupuncture to reduce stress and improve symptoms of nausea and pain - Regular physical activity to maintain body strength and resilience during and after treatment Embracing an integrated approach to treatment, combining the best of conventional medicine and functional, natural therapies can offer a holistic path to managing stomach cancer. Always consult a healthcare provider before beginning any new treatment regimen to ensure it's safe and appropriate for your specific condition.