How Important are Mammograms? [This information comes from The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, NABCO, the American Cancer Society, and my personal experience.] The sooner cancer is detected, the sooner treatment can begin, the sooner one can return to a healthy life FREE of cancer! A mammogram, which is a low dose x-ray of the breast, is the best way to detect breast canner in its earliest AND most treatable stages. Each breast is flatten on a special x-ray machine that allows the technician to take different views of each breast. It is this "flattening" that is uncomfortable, but any pain will last for a few seconds. The larger the breast the more pressure the technician will use to to get the best image. A mammogram can detect a cancerous mass as small as .43 inches. When I viewed my mammogram, the mass was much smaller! However, the cancer had already spread to surrounding tissue but it was NOT visible on the mammogram! THIS is why it is vital that women begin to get their mammograms at age 40. Risks of developing breast cancer: By age 30 = one in 2,000 By age 40 = one in 233 By age 50 = one in 53 By age 60 = one in 22 By age 70 = one in 13 By age 80 = one in 9 EVER = one in 8! BIGGEST RISK: Being a woman and getting older [However, more men are being diagnosed.] "Approximately 40,200 women and 400 men will die of breast cancer this year." [2001 #s/SGK Item # 806-302] COSTS? Most insurance plans, including Medicare, will pay for screening mammograms. Check with your plan. If you do not have insurance, or your plan does not cover mammograms, there are a number of resources you can try to get information on getting a FREE or low-cost mammogram: Komen National Toll-Free Breast Care Helpline = 1-800-462-9273 National Alliance of Breast Cancer Organizations = 1-888-80-NABCO American Cancer Society = 1-800-ACS-2345 You may also e-mail us for more information = Godsclipone@hotmail.com [Tambien, nos pueden escribir. TODOS TIENEN SERVICIOS EN ESPANOL] Early Detection Saves Lives! Mammograms are VERY important. |
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Medical Information PURPOSE: This page is meant to provide you with medical information. It is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. ALWAYS double check any information that you find useful. ALL of the information on this web site has been published in a minimum of three books and/or recommended by as many doctors. Please let us know if you find contrary medical information, along with enough information for us to research. Please remember that this is a new site; we are still gathering information. Thanks. Would You Believe. . . that your "BRA can kill you"? Some believe that the following information about bras falls in the same category as those "crackpots" that say that deodorant causes breast cancer. Nevertheless, the main reason I include it here is because one physician I know of, and one reputable doctor, (in addition to several others) mention it; therefore, I think it is something that we can all consider. Personally, we do not believe that bras CAUSE breast cancer, but we DO believe that they do constrict the flow of lymphatic fluid that we need to fight off infections. Read on and decide for yourself! According to Dressed to Kill: The Link Between Breast Cancer and Bras: "wearing a bra that's too tight for too long can greatly increase your risk of cancer, says astonishing new research by Sydney Ross and his wife Soma Grismaijer. Women who wear bras more than 12 hours a day are 21 times more likely to develop breast cancer, says the pair. And women who wear a bra to bed are 125 times more likely to get breast cancer than women who don't wear a bra at all. Singer believes that tight bras smash the lymph vessels that lie close to the breast's surface. Lymph fluid normally flows through these vessels and cleans toxins from the body. Bras prevent that cleansing action. [They] surveyed 2000 women without breast cancer and over 2000 breast cancer survivors. [They suggest the following:] - Wear a bra as little as possible. - Never wear a bra to bed. - Don't wear underwire, push-up or strapless bras (except perhaps on special occasions.) - Buy loose bras. Bras should never leave a red mark on your skin. - If your breast size changes during your menstrual cycle, buy different-sized bras so you'll always be comfortable. - When you take your bra off, massage your breasts* to get your lymph fluid flowing." [*"Breasts" would include your entire breast area, which extends under your arm, beneath and above your breasts, and the middle of your chest.] [Avery Publishing, Garden City Park, NY 1995 Comments in brackets are mine. Emphasis is mine.] See Chapter 10 of Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom for a complete discussion about breasts. On page 344, Dr. Northrup encourages women to "stop wearing an underwire bra (for at least most of the time). Too often this kind of bra cuts off the circulation of both blood and lymph fluid around the breast, chest wall and surrounding tissue." Obviously, the title of this section may be an exaggeration; nevertheless, some may say that common sense and wisdom dictate that you not constrict your lymph nodes from doing what they were designed to do. After praying, DECIDE what you should do! I would like to thank Andrea, a friend, for bringing this topic to my attention. Her medical doctor recommended that she stop wearing bras for the reasons listed above. Of course, she has not, but the styles she buys and how often she wears one has changed. Breast Self-Exams The Controversy I am sure that you have heard about the new controversy regarding breast self exams. A study in China has determined that doing breast self exams does not prolong the lives of breast cancer survivors. I had the privilege of hearing the researcher who conducted this study at the 2003 Komen Conference in Washington, D.C. along with other researchers and speakers. The American Cancer Society has decided to take out the recommendation of doing BSEs from their old three step approach to breast health. The Komen Foundation, however, has decided to continue recommending them. I believe they have decided to take this stand on the strong and very adament support of a vast majority of those of us working in the field one-on-one with women who continue to find their own lumps. In addition, it seems wise to continue to encourage women to become more familiar with their breasts. OUR STAND: While we agree that the current data shows that doing BSEs AND Clinical Breast Exams (CBEs) does not prolong life, we believe that women have to continue to learn how to do proper BSEs while young, with timely clinical breast exams and mammograms. This is especially important for young women with a history of breast cancer because mammogram screening is not recommended until after age 40. I believe I speak for many health care promoters/promotoras when I say that we will ALL feel more comofortable when our doctors and nurses learn how to properly perform CBEs. If females of all ages become acquainted with their breasts, we can see the reduction of death from breast cancer. We believe it is vital that the sigma of touching our breasts, especially in the "women of color" communities, needs to be greatly reduced and eventually eliminated! Now, on with our discussion on BSEs: We have all heard that it is important to do self exams every month, but when was the last time you did? Honestly? As I sit here typing this, I wonder how many women avoid doing this because they are ashamed of their bodies--their breasts. Yes! ASHAMED! We are not taught to touch ourselves except when we bathe. We don't tend to teach our daughters how important it is for them to know their own bodies--to look in the mirror and examine themselves. Shame and fear are part of this. I am not a psychologist/pychiatrist, but personal experience has taught me that too many of us don't take better care of ourselves because we are "embarrassed" of our own bodies, and/or fear is an overwhelming force in our lives!. Well, ladies--I don't "pull any punches" or "allow the norms of our Christian upbringing" to stop me from shocking you into doing what you MUST to take better care of God's temple! So, here goes: TOUCH YOURSELF! Only you will know whether a bump is a regular occurrence during your cycle or whether it is something abnormal. Only you will know if one of your breasts does NOT look quite "right." You know, your spirit knows when something is not right. Remember that shame is not of God; God made you in HIS image: "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male AND female he created them." (Emphasis Mine; Genesis 1:27 NIV) Yes, most people do tend to leave the second part of this verse out, but God created me, a woman, in HIS image. Think about that! Therefore, it is important that we respect our bodies by taking care of this precious temple the Lord has made. We must not be ashamed of what God has created. We also all know that fear is not of God! Replace those negative thoughts with positive ones when you examine yourself. Like the commercial says, "JUST DO IT!" Perform your monthly breast self exams, even if you are not sure you are doing it correctly. Most libraries, doctors' offices, and/or clinics have videos on how to perform exams yourself-- borrow one today. There are also many groups that will teach you how to do one correctly. Finally, I realize that talking about sex is not a topic many Christians like to talk about--after all, we are far too holy for that! Well, . . . moving on: Your husband also knows your body--or rather, he should. Many times, a man is the one who finds that lump--educate him, and tell him to let you know when something is not "normal." Have you scheduled your mammogram? DO IT TODAY! Call a Friend to go with you, and make it a special event. Schedule your appointment at the same time as a friend, support each other, and then celebrate afterwards! [This is SO MUCH FUN! Try it! You will be surprised how much more relaxed you are.] No one to call? Join our Group and we will do all we can to find someone to go with you. E mail us: GodsClipOne@Hotmail.com WHEN to have a Mammogram: First Time = Age 40 40 - 49 = one every 1 - 2 years 50+ = every year. When recommended by doctor. TIPS on How to do a Breast Self Exam 1. Best time = immediately after your menstrual period (7 - 10 days after the start of your "period"). I examine my breasts EVERY time I shower. And I have noticed that I am more sensitive before my cycle, and I do tend to feel "lumps," which are quite normal. These are milk glands, and I usually notice them more when I am ovulating. 2 As you perform your exam, praise God for the miracle of you! Thank God for a body that is yielding to the Spirit's will. Cast out all fear. Don't perform an exam expecting to find something "bad" -- expect to find that everything is GREAT! The Bible tells us to lay hands on each other to heal--lay hands on YOURSELF, even before you get sick! (I was very surprised to read that Dr. Northrup endorses this type of "blessing" and "sending energies of caring and respect to this area of [the] body" (332).) 3. Examine yourself standing and lying down. 4. In the shower, lather each breast. With one arm raised above your head, use the alternate hand to examine yourself, feeling in a circular motion as you slowly move your hand around your breast, starting from the outside and moving in. Use the pads of your three middle fingers. Make sure you press down, even though you may be sensitive. 5. Look at yourself in the mirror to familiarize yourself with your breasts: their shape, color, and general "look." Then if you ever have any puckering/ indentations (anything that is not normal) you will notice it. Look at yourself with your arms at your sides, with your arms over your head, with your hands clasped under your chin while flexing your chest muscles, and also while you are bending forward, with your breasts hanging. This is not a favorite activity of mine, since I do not particularly like looking in the mirror (I'm working on this!) but if I can do it, you can too. 6. When you are lying down, place a small pillow or folded towel under your mid-back on the side you are examining. Rub lotion on your breasts and repeat the finger-pad exam I describe above. 7. NEVER, EVER curse your breasts (or any other part of your body)! 8. IF you find something that makes you uncomfortable, TELL SOMEONE and schedule an appointment because early detection will save your life. Don't allow FEAR to control your life. Also, please remember that oftentimes a lump is non-cancerous! Praise God! 9. FINALLY, teach your daughters to do this when they are young. If they are living away from home, even if they are married and are "too old" to be told anything, CALL THEM AND REMIND THEM TO EXAMINE THEIR BREASTS! They should be calling you and reminding you! Let's nag each other to LIFE! Anatomy of the Breast The following is copied directly from a handout I received in college. I apologize for not having the direct reference, but the information is basically general knowledge: The middle of the breast contains a dark circle, from pink to almost black, called the areola and nipple. The areola usually has small bumps on it which are sebaceous or oil glands that secrete a lubricant to protect the nipple during nursing. Nipples may lie flat, be inverted (go in), or stick out. All are normal. Nerves come into the nipple at the bottom of the areola. Directly behind the nipple and areola are the only muscles in our breasts. The inside of the breasts contain fat, connective tissue, and a milk-producing gland which contains the ducts that carry the milk to the nipple. The amount of fat that determines the size of the breast may be partly determined by heredity. The size also changes during different times of a woman's menstrual cycle, as well as during sexual stimulus, pregnancy, and nursing. [If you have never seen a picture of the inside of a breast, ask your doctor/nurse for a picture; or check a medical book in the library; or visit one of the medical sites on the Internet. (WebMD.com and Komen.org are good sources.) KNOW exactly what your doctor is talking about when he says, "You have ducto-carcinoma."] |
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Fasting [This section is approximately 12 pages long] Some General Information About Fasting Definition: The word "fast" is from the archaic Teutonic language, faestan, which means "strict." There are many fasts but generally speaking, for some, a "true" fast means drinking only water (preferably with a squeeze of lemon); for others, it means that no food or water is ingested into your body. However, today more people are participating in other "fasts" like juice (which includes water), fruit, or mono-diets (only one food per day is eaten). I do realize that some people fast other things like watching television, not participating in any athletic activity, not using the computer, etc. However, the rest of this information does not address these types of "fasts." Warning: If you plan to fast on a monthly basis and you have never fasted before, start with one day a month (a very conservative approach). Consult a doctor if you want to participate in "complete" fasts of over three days. Use wisdom. Fasting may be extremely dangerous to the overall function of your body; therefore, make sure you consult your doctor and let her/him know exactly how you plan to fast--especially if you are on medication. The Bible Contains Clear Instructions on Fasting Fasting is not new for Christians. However, what may be new to some is how to correctly fast, and the reasons for fasting. Too many of us fast because the "church" is fasting, without really knowing how to fast. Basically it has become a religious act which we perform sincerely but in ignorance. I see fasting as a way to get closer to God while at the same time healing our bodies. The Bible contains answers to all of our questions regarding fasting. In Matthew 6: 16, Jesus says, "WHEN you fast . . ." NOT "IF" you fast. However, the Bible does NOT tell us how often or how long to fast; however, we do have guidelines that will help us determine this. With guidance from the Holy Spirit, your pastor may give you guidance on when and why to participate in a public fast. Check "Public fast" information that follows. What Isaiah 58 teaches us about fasting: [ Private fast ] 1. Reflect on your own motives -- WHY are you fasting? v 4 -5 2. Fasting will loosen the bonds of wickedness -- reflect on what you need to repent about. v 6 What strongholds must you give up to the Lord: unforgiveness, shame, guilt, hatred, abandonment, anger, fear, jealousy, WHAT!!?? 3. HEALING will quickly appear v 8 -- be open to God's touch! 4. Fasting will allow you to cry out to God and He will say "HERE I AM." v 9 5. EXPECT God to meet you -- EXPECT miracles. v 9 6. The Lord will guide you continually -- READ the WORD v 11 Expect miracles when you fast/ Expect the Spirit to "move" in a "real" sense! When should we fast? 1. BEFORE we make major decisions: Jesus fasted for 40 days and nights before his ministry began. During this time he was able to withstand all that the devil threw at him. It stands to reason that before we undertake a major change in our lives, and when we are searching for God's will, that we fast. Of course, it may NOT be wise to fast for 40 days, but this biblical example shows us how important it is that we fast before we start ministries and make life-changing decisions. (Matthew 4) 2. When we want to hear God/Facing a spiritual hindrance: Fasting will allow us to hear God's voice clearly and KNOW what His will is for us. Fasting is NOT something we do to change God's mind; it is a way for us to align ourselves to God's will. (Isaiah 58) (Daniel 10: 2, 3 Read Chapters 9/10) In Matthew 4, you will note that Jesus quoted scripture. Remember that Satan also knows the Word and will use it to destroy you if you allow it. 3. When we are under distress: Distressed because she was childless, Hannah "wept, and did not eat." (1 Samuel 1:7) 4. When we are grieving: Fasting as a natural expression of grief: David expressed his grief by fasting. (2 Samuel 3: 35) 5. When we need God's Power manifested in us: Jesus was strong enough to rebuke the devil: "Away from me, Satan!" (Matthew 4) Jesus did NOT use so-called "magical powers or his Godly powers" to get out of the situation; he used God's Word, which was the ONLY thing IN him. God's HEALING will quickly appear -- BE open to God's touch! (Isaiah 58: 8) 6. To show God is sovereign: Fasting shows that our belly is not our god (Philippians 3: 19). 7. To build our faith: The disciples could not drive out demons from a man. Jesus told them "this kind does not go out except by prayer and fasting." (Matthew 17: 21) 8. To loosen the bonds of wickedness: Reflect on what you need to repent about. (Isaiah 58: 6) When we should NOT fast: Ecclesiastes 3: 1 states that "there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven" (NIV). This applies to fasting as well. 1. Jesus did not think it wise to fast [go without food] when one traveled: Then Jesus called his disciples [unto him], and said, I have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with me now three days, and have nothing to eat; and I will not send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way. (Matthew 15: 32 KJV) And if I send them away fasting to their own houses, they will faint by the way; for divers of them came from far. (Mark 8: 3 KJV) 2. Some people believe that we should not fast when we are sick, while others feel that that is the ideal time to flush our systems of toxins. Research, pray, talk to your pastor and your doctor, and then can make an educated decision about what to do. 3. We do NOT have time to pray and read the Word for long periods of time. 4. When we do so under the wrong motive. Fasting is a private as well as public act: Private: When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to men that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. (Matthew 6: 16 - 18 NIV) Fasting is a private activity we do to get closer to God, not to impress others or garner sympathy. When we fast we might want to consider not telling others because we may experience different forms of sabotage: all of a sudden everyone invites you out to eat, people may say negative things about fasting, or some people may misunderstand your purpose. Public: And in every province, whithersoever the king's commandment and his decree came, [there was] great mourning among the Jews, and fasting, and weeping, and wailing, and many lay in sackcloth and ashes. (Esther 4: 3 KJV) Many churches/organizations will ask their members to pray and fast. Rarely do they get clear instructions on how to do so, but by faith they participate. A public fast can be extremely powerful and effective, but make sure that you are not endangering your well-being and clearly understand the purpose of the fast. Pastors should tell their congregations the reason for calling a fast. Check your motive for fasting. For example, do you want the pastor's approval? Do you want others to think you are holy? And so on. We should fast out of humility and sincere repentance: Even now, declares the Lord, return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning. Rend your heart and not your garments. Return to the Lord your God, for He is gracious and compassionate, slow to anger and abounding in love, and He relents from sending calamity. (Joel 2: 12 NIV) Write down the instructions your pastor has given for participating in a fast: 1. 2. 3. Write down what YOU will do to participate in this fast: Write down WHY you are fasting: I came across this very helpful and informative book: Fasting for Spiritual Break Through: A Guide to Nine Biblical Fasts written by Elmer L. Towns (Regal Books, CA 1996). The following is a direct quote, in an easier to read format, with the biblical character Towns assigns to each: In Isaiah 58, God says He has chosen fasts that (1) loosen the bonds of wickedness, Disciple's Fast (2) undo heavy burdens, Ezra Fast (3) let the oppressed go free, Samuel Fast (4) break every yoke, Elijah Fast (5) give bread to the hungry and provide the poor with housing, Widow's Fast (6) allow the people's light to break forth like the morning, Saint Paul Fast (6) cause their health to spring forth speedily, Daniel Fast (7) cause their righteousness to go before them and John the Baptist Fast (8) cause the glory of the Lord to be their reward (or 'rear guard'). Esther Fast (p. 19) Others have simply divided fasts into three (3) different types: typical, complete, and partial. 1. The "typical fast." The Bible teaches that normal fasting means not eating solid food. The typical fast mentioned in the Bible did NOT involve abstinence from liquids. When Jesus fasted for forty days and nights in the wilderness, we read in Matthew 4: 2 that he was hungry afterwards. Scripture does not mention that he was thirsty. It would be a physical impossibility to fast forty days with no liquid intake. Most Bible scholars believe that Jesus did drank water in the wilderness. Benefits of a long fast [3 - 41 days] Physical benefits: Deeper cellular repair, elimination, and rejuvenation, as well as help with asthma, arthritis, tumors, hay fever, migraines, ulcers and other ailments may occur with long fasts. Spiritual benefits: Deeper "connection" to God; greater possibility of having spiritual visions; extended periods of time meditating. Remember: One fast may not cure years of neglect and abuse, but it will lead to a life of fasting that will allow the body to heal itself--the way God intends it to do. DRINK PLENTY OF WATER. 2. The "complete fast." [Also called an absolute fast.] One does NOT eat any food or drink water. Saul was on his way to persecute those of the WAY -- Christians -- when the Lord stopped him and blinded him for three days. He did NOT eat or drink during this time. (Acts 9: 9) As you can see, this was for a short period of time. However, this is a severe fast and can be dangerous. A person should not go on a complete fast for more than one day if he or she is not used to this type of fast. Also, it is important that you consult your doctor if you have a serious health problem. Write down some thoughts on why you should be on this type of fast: 3. The "partial fast." The partial fast serves many purposes and can take on different characteristics. It is different from the other fasts in that we consider WHAT we are eating and how often. This is the most popular form of fasting. First, the partial fast involves abstaining from certain foods. Some scholars interpret Daniel's actions as a partial fast (Daniel 1). Daniel and the young men of Israel were asked to eat from the Babylonian king's table; they declined. They did not want to defile themselves and asked for a ten-day test case. During that time, Daniel and the Israelites only drank water and ate vegetables. They abstained from the meat and wine of the King's table. (Daniel 1:12) Note verse 15: At the end of ten days their appearance seemed better and they were fatter than all the youths who had been eating the king's choice food. (NIV) [Keep reading; finish the chapter--it only gets better.] When this partial fast is used today, people abstain from certain aspects of their meal or may skip one or two meals God may lead some people to abstain from certain foods as a test of their sincerity--especially when searching for a specific answer to prayer. If you are going to participate in a partial fast, pray about what you should not eat. Write down what the Spirit has put on your heart to give up and for how long. Second, the partial fast involves abstaining from food for a specific time period. Some fast only during the daylight hours, or for half a day; others may skip one or two of the main meals during the day. The usual fast in the Old Testament began at sundown and extended to sundown the second day. A person would wait until after the sun had fallen to eat the evening meal. Third, abstinence from sexual relationships between husband and wife is a must during all types of fasts. Paul states that the husband and wife should "stop depriving one another, except by agreement for a time, so that [they] may devote [them]selves to prayer and fasting [some versions do not have fasting], and come together again so that Satan will not tempt [them] because of [their] lack of self-control." (l Corinthians 7:5 NIV). This may be why some get the idea that one can fast from things, other than food and water, that give us pleasure. If you are going to participate in an "alternative" fast [where you give up some activity, habit, action, etc.], the Spirit of God is putting on your heart to give up what? For how long? Chemical Changes During Long Fast First few days: Your stomach ph goes up, it is more alkaline; your digestive tract is cleansed; you will have the most dramatic weight loss; water, minerals (sodium & potassium), and water soluble vitamins are heavily excreted [they leave your body]; hunger pangs, headaches, and urinating a lot are common; bowel movements should continue BUT may cease. Write down how you feel physically after 24 hours: After 2 days: After 3 days: After initial few days: Your liver starts to purge itself of its chemical and toxic load throwing off poisons into bloodstream from elimination. Nausea, exhaustion, diarrhea, muscle aches, nervousness, shortness of breath, and/or shaking may occur. After this phase: Deep tissue cleansing occurs; blood toxins are removed; cellular ash & debris are flushed from kidneys; Symptoms from first & second phases [stated above] may occur. Then you begin to feel better. Normally, you may feel worse before you feel better! Do not get discouraged and give up. Notice how you have to be in a long fast for your body to actually undergo physical changes. Note: During a long fast, the "garbage" that is being flushed out of your system has to go somewhere; consider enemas and colonics during severe illnesses to completely clean your system. Some nutritionists (if not all) would recommend enemas as a part of a total body cleansing regimen. Your environment: Avoid pollution (this may be difficult, but try to leave town when you are on a complete/typical water fast); seashore or mountains, forest or countryside, and subtropical areas are ideal for your body when undergoing a water fast. (This may be impossible; do your best.) The following places offer private rooms or cabins for fasting: Praise Mountain Ministries, Inc./A Prayer and Fasting Center 7858 Park County Rd 98 Florissant, CO 80816 Leah Persons, Owner This is a GREAT retreat spot! You can NOT take ANY type of food--only water and juice. Leaving the compound to eat at a restaurant is also frowned upon because the only function of this retreat is to provide Christians with a quiet place to pray and fast. [You are Not even supposed to take snacks!] You MUST make a reservation, and there is no et fee; you just leave a love-offering; however, check with Ms. Persons in case they have changed this policy. We recommend leaving at least $25 per night for 2 people; $10 per person if you use the larger lodge for more than 8 people; of course, you may leave more. You must also leave the lodge as clean [if not cleaner] than you found it. They have a separate chapel, and the area is large enough to have long walks. It is truly a blessed spot! World Prayer Center. Northeast of COS They have prayer closets -- and they are not kidding. These private rooms are very small, have a small cot and desk with a chair. They have larger rooms for overnight stays as well. Call them for more information. Ask your pastor if you can use a private room in the church. All he/she can say is NO! A Special Note to Mothers: It may be impossible for you to take time off away from your children. Consider switching off with a close friend-- you can offer to take care of her children while she is away for 24 hours if she will do the same for you. Even half a day will help! MOPS (Mothers of PreSchoolers) is a great support group for young mothers; if you can, join and see what programs they offer. Also, don't forget the father! Hey--he can spend some quality time with the kids that involves more than one hour!! Again, find out what programs are offered in the larger churches in town. Find creative ways to get a break--you WILL be a better mom for it. The Importance of Praying While Fasting If you are going to fast and NOT pray, you are merely fasting for physical reasons. Do NOT expect God to move during this type of fast! Do NOT commit yourself to a spiritual fast if you are not willing to commit yourself to long periods of prayer during the fast. This will be the only way that you will hear from God. It is the way to come to the realization that you have to give something up that has been hindering your walk with the Lord. PRAY the WORD--read it out loud. It is the only way that you will CHANGE! Read the following: Entire Chapters 6 & 9 of Daniel; 1 Thessalonians 3: 10; 5: 17 - 25; 1 Samuel 1: 26 - 28; 2 Samuel 3: 35; 2 Chronicles 6: 26 - 42; Isaiah 58; Matthew 4; 6: 6 - 9; 14: 23; 17; 26: 41; Acts 11: 5; Mark 11: 24, 25; Luke 6: 12, 28; 22: 46; Chapter 11; James 5: 13 - 16; Romans 8: 26; 1 Corinthians 7; 14: 13 - 15; 1 Timothy 2: 8 How to BEGIN A SPIRITUAL FAST: Give your body a "warning" -- If you will be in a 3-day fast, give yourself 1 - 2 days BEFORE and 1 - 2 days AFTER the fast to prepare your body. Prepare by eating less BEFORE the fast; gradually ADD food at the end of the fast. In other words-- DO NOT eat a large/heavy meal after a fast. Ending a fast in this manner is very hard on the body and may cause more health problems. 1. Begin with prayer: Repent with the right attitude in your heart so your fast will be "fruitful." God will not honor all fasts: Although they fast, I will not listen to their cry; though they offer burnt offerings and grain offerings, I will not accept them. (Jeremiah 14: 12) Make sure your heart is right with God and that there is no hidden sin in your life: Cleanse thou me from my secret faults. (Psalm 19: 12) Don't fall into the trap of thinking you are NOT a sinner: If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us. (1 John 1: 8) Ask for forgiveness: If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness. (1 John 1: 9) Stay in this attitude of prayer throughout fast: Pray continually (1 Thessalonians 5: 17) 2. Read the Scriptures: During your fast, increase the amount of time you spend reading the Word so that your faith will increase: Faith comes from hearing the Word (Romans 10: 17). Take this time to memorize more Scripture. 3. Worship God: Therefore, I urge you brothers and sisters, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual act of worship. (Romans 12: 1) Worship does NOT only mean that you listen to or sing worship music. Worship includes lifting our Lord in ALL we do and say. It also means giving thanks as a form of worship: Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. (1 Thessalonians 5: 18) Recommended Requirements for a Typical/Complete Water Fast: 1. Prepare your body BEFORE and AFTER the fast. 2. You should have previous fasting experience. 3. Keep to yourself. 4. Avoid TV and radio. 5. Bathe in the sun (do not overdo and get overexposed). 6. Lay on the grass; take a leisurely walk (appreciate nature). Take in plenty of fresh air. 7. PRAY; Do meditation exercises. 8. Get plenty of rest. Avoid stress (as much as possible). 9. Read your Bible, as well as fasting or other spiritual books. 10. Do not participate in any sexual activity. What to DO and What to Avoid on a Spiritual Fast Remember to prepare your body before and after the fast. Avoid watching too much TV. Spend the time praying & reading the Word. Avoid putting yourself in a situation where you KNOW you will be face to face with what you are fasting from! [For example, avoid passing Kentucky Fried Chicken if you are fasting fried chicken; avoid going to the local ice cream store just to hang out!] Avoid spending too much time with others. Spend quality time with yourself and God. Avoid getting into philosophical arguments with co-workers/with your spouse over fasting or anything else. Avoid doing too much. Put off some of your usual commitments until after your fast. Avoid going to the grocery store--there are far too many temptations! If you are on a partial fast of Meat: Not eating -- Make sure you supply your body with enough protein; drink protein drinks, eat nuts, etc. [If on juice fast, avoid protein drinks.] Limiting amount of meat -- Limit all meat intake to 4 oz per serving; this is enough to put on the palm of your hand. Limiting & changing cooking method: If you are used to eating fried foods, try baking them instead -- including French fries! Cut your portions. Replace one healthy food for one that you know is NOT good for you. Candy & Soda: If you are used to eating/drinking a large quantity in one day, start by cutting in half. If you stop cold turkey you MAY find that your body can not handle it. GRADUALLY decrease the amount of the sugar you take in every day. This will allow your body and mind to "catch" up and you will not feel so deprived. This is why we recommend taking extra days to prepare your body before and after your actual fast. You will get headaches when weaning yourself from sugars. Take a pain reliever if necessary. You may have to rest more than normal but you should be doing this anyway. Carbohydrates: potatoes, pasta, white rice; etc. = replace with vegetables that will offer you natural carbs. For a partial fast, make sure you get some form of natural carbohydrates each day. Even if you are not fasting from candy, soda, or caffeine, it might be a VERY good idea to do so anyway during your fast. These items will only make your body want them more and may physically cause you to crave them along with the item[s] you are fasting. Can't participate in water fast alone? Partial fast is not enough? Try fresh juice fasting. However, this takes a lot of time, and you must be very careful that you balance the types of juices you are drinking. Information on juice fasting follows. PLEASE remember to consult your doctor before a juice fast. If you do not have a regular doctor, call your local hospital's help line-- most have one. The following information is about FRESH Juice Fasting Juice fasting is done to allow your digestive tract to rest, to lose weight and to detoxify the body; this fast will protect against toxins and stresses of life in big cities. You can still work on this type of fast. A body can absorb 99% of the food value of juice (while only 70% with food). High water content of fruits helps flush your digestive tract, kidneys and will purify bloodstream. Drink plenty of water too. Sip juices slowly. Many fruits, especially citrus (lemon is the strongest), are strong solvents. Tasty blends: Apple as a base: pear; pear/pineapple; grape; watermelon; cranberry; orange/grapefruit = do NOT mix citrus with other fruits Carrot as a base: beets; green peppers; cucumber; parsley; apple; alfalfa sprouts; watermelon rind; ginger; spinach; carrot tops; aloe vera; cabbage, sweet potatoes, or parsley. AMOUNT: 10 - 16 ounces per sitting Carrots are very sweet so maintain a balance of 5 oz carrot, 1 oz beet, 2 oz apple, 2 oz watermelon rind, for example. Experiment for the amounts you prefer. Dilute with water if too strong. Drink these carrot combinations only one time every other day, preferably in the morning or afternoon. Sweet juices may affect your blood sugar levels--again, consult your doctor before you drink too much of "a good thing." GREEN Juices: Clean your blood, heal, stabilize, calm and give long term energy. Drink 8 - 10 oz per day in the afternoons. Celery & Spinach as a base: add tomatoes; cabbage; dill; lemon; garlic; ginger; cayenne You can also add to the above combos radish, parsley, green pepper, leafy sprouts. Again--experiment and find your favorite combos. Benefits of Individual Fruits/Vegetables: Pineapple: contains enzyme bronclain which helps secrete hydrochloric acid and helps digest protein. Grape: powerful cleanser. When made fresh, add water to grape concentrate. Concord = strongest. Apples: Intestinal sweepers/digestive tract cleaner; Contain malic acid and galacturonic acid = help eliminates impurities and pectin which stops protein from "rotting" in your stomach. Cranberry: diuretic; heals kidneys. Watermelon: diuretic; juice the rind [white part] of the watermelon, as well as the fruit; high alkaline fluid content neutralizes acids & flushes toxins out of kidneys. Beets: Stimulant for liver Parsley: blood purifier/diuretic Cucumbers: stimulate kidneys Sweet Potato: Alkalizer of bloodstream & mineralizer containing enzymes for diabetics Spinach: stimulate peristalsis [contraction of your intestine to help move waste out] Aloe Vera: detoxifier of bloodstream & lymphatic system Cabbage: soothes ulcers & gas Characteristics of Colorful Foods: Red Foods: speed up circulation: tomatoes, cherries, red cabbage, red peppers, hot peppers, cranberry, watermelon, radish. Orange Foods: antispasmodic, strengthens lungs; promotes vitality & mental clarity: oranges, carrots, apricots, pumpkin, sesame & pumpkin seeds. Yellow Foods: motor stimulant; strengthens nerves, digestion & helps constipation: lemon, lime, pineapple, grapefruit, apple, peach, banana, papaya, mango, corn, squash. Green Foods: blood cleaner, bactericide, natural tranquilizer: all green leafy vegetables/sprouts, wheat grass, avocado Blue Foods: help with headaches, spiritual & mental work: blueberry, plum, grape, potato, celery, parsnip, asparagus, nuts. NOTE: Fresh juices are highly perishable, so drink them right away. If you make more than one serving, store in thermos and keep in refrigerator. Make sure your utensils are extra clean. If juice is exposed to light, heat or air, it will start turning sour quickly. You can tell juice is bad when it has a bite or tingling sensation in your mouth, it is sour, it smells bad. AVOID drinking juices from the store while on this type of fast. Which Fruits to Avoid: Oranges & Berries: you may be allergic to these so avoid during fasts. Do NOT use non-juicable fruit like papaya, coconut, banana, strawberry, cantaloupe, honeydew, peach, plum, prune, apricot, avocado. These are great as flavor enhancers in shakes--which you can drink AFTER your fast. Note: Coconut milk is milk inside of a coconut, and is good for a fast, but juice extracted from the meat [which is VERY high in fat] should be avoided during a fast. Dried fruits, like prunes, raisins, figs, do NOT produce juice. You can soak one cup of fruit to one quart of water for 8 - 10 hours. You can get two soakings out of each batch. Use the fruit in other recipes. Mix the "juice" with other juices or drink alone. Buy ORGANIC produce if possible. Other things to remember: Do NOT make milk from cashews. High protein drinks on a juice fast will slow down detoxification. Rice milk is easier to digest than soy BUT it is still a complex food; drink it diluted. Do NOT drink these "milks" everyday duirng a fast. The desire for protein indicates it is time to end the fast a long fast. LISTEN TO THE SPIRIT OF GOD! LISTEN TO YOUR BODY. DRINK PLENTY OF WATER. Source: Some of this general information was in a handout I received many years ago. Unfortunately, I do not know the name of the original writer; however, my research shows that this information is either common knowledge or given out by many other books on nutrition/fasting. Some information comes from God's CLIP presentations made by Iris Aviles. I also tried most, if not all, of the suggestions made here. PLEASE study what the WORD says about fasting and praying. Please write if you think I should add something or you feel I should rethink something I have said. (Ada Torres & Iris Aviles Oct 2003) |
Disclaimer: The nutritional and medical information on this page is NOT meant to prescribe. You should always consult a doctor before & during any alternative therapy. You should know that some alternative therapies may have adverse effects when taken with traditional medicine. Our purpose is only to provide up to date information concerning health and nutrition. If you find anything that is not up to date or you want us to include relevant or new information, please provide us with enough information to research. Thank you. |
Medical Information PURPOSE: This page is meant to provide you with medical information. It is not meant to diagnose or prescribe. ALWAYS double check any information that you find useful. ALL of the information on this web site has been published in a minimum of three books and/or recommended by as many doctors. Please let us know if you find contrary medical information, along with enough information for us to research. Please remember that this is a new site; we are still gathering information. Thanks. Would You Believe. . . that your "BRA can kill you"? Some believe that the following information about bras falls in the same category as those "crackpots" that say that deodorant causes breast cancer. Nevertheless, the main reason I include it here is because one physician I know of, and one reputable doctor, (in addition to several others) mention it; therefore, I think it is something that we can all consider. Personally, we do not believe that bras CAUSE breast cancer, but we DO believe that they do constrict the flow of lymphatic fluid that we need to fight off infections. Read on and decide for yourself! According to Dressed to Kill: The Link Between Breast Cancer and Bras: "wearing a bra that's too tight for too long can greatly increase your risk of cancer, says astonishing new research by Sydney Ross and his wife Soma Grismaijer. Women who wear bras more than 12 hours a day are 21 times more likely to develop breast cancer, says the pair. And women who wear a bra to bed are 125 times more likely to get breast cancer than women who don't wear a bra at all. Singer believes that tight bras smash the lymph vessels that lie close to the breast's surface. Lymph fluid normally flows through these vessels and cleans toxins from the body. Bras prevent that cleansing action. [They] surveyed 2000 women without breast cancer and over 2000 breast cancer survivors. [They suggest the following:] - Wear a bra as little as possible. - Never wear a bra to bed. - Don't wear underwire, push-up or strapless bras (except perhaps on special occasions.) - Buy loose bras. Bras should never leave a red mark on your skin. - If your breast size changes during your menstrual cycle, buy different-sized bras so you'll always be comfortable. - When you take your bra off, massage your breasts* to get your lymph fluid flowing." [*"Breasts" would include your entire breast area, which extends under your arm, beneath and above your breasts, and the middle of your chest.] [Avery Publishing, Garden City Park, NY 1995 Comments in brackets are mine. Emphasis is mine.] See Chapter 10 of Women's Bodies, Women's Wisdom for a complete discussion about breasts. On page 344, Dr. Northrup encourages women to "stop wearing an underwire bra (for at least most of the time). Too often this kind of bra cuts off the circulation of both blood and lymph fluid around the breast, chest wall and surrounding tissue." Obviously, the title of this section may be an exaggeration; nevertheless, some may say that common sense and wisdom dictate that you not constrict your lymph nodes from doing what they were designed to do. After praying, DECIDE what you should do! I would like to thank Andrea, a friend, for bringing this topic to my attention. Her medical doctor recommended that she stop wearing bras for the reasons listed above. Of course, she has not, but the styles she buys and how often she wears one has changed. Breast Self-Exams The Controversy I am sure that you have heard about the new controversy regarding breast self exams. A study in China has determined that doing breast self exams does not prolong the lives of breast cancer survivors. I had the privilege of hearing the researcher who conducted this study at the 2003 Komen Conference in Washington, D.C. along with other researchers and speakers. The American Cancer Society has decided to take out the recommendation of doing BSEs from their old three step approach to breast health. The Komen Foundation, however, has decided to continue recommending them. I believe they have decided to take this stand on the strong and very adament support of a vast majority of those of us working in the field one-on-one with women who continue to find their own lumps. In addition, it seems wise to continue to encourage women to become more familiar with their breasts. OUR STAND: While we agree that the current data shows that doing BSEs AND Clinical Breast Exams (CBEs) does not prolong life, we believe that women have to continue to learn how to do proper BSEs while young, with timely clinical breast exams and mammograms. This is especially important for young women with a history of breast cancer because mammogram screening is not recommended until after age 40. I believe I speak for many health care promoters/promotoras when I say that we will ALL feel more comofortable when our doctors and nurses learn how to properly perform CBEs. If females of all ages become acquainted with their breasts, we can see the reduction of death from breast cancer. We believe it is vital that the sigma of touching our breasts, especially in the "women of color" communities, needs to be greatly reduced and eventually eliminated! Now, on with our discussion on BSEs: We have all heard that it is important to do self exams every month, but when was the last time you did? Honestly? As I sit here typing this, I wonder how many women avoid doing this because they are ashamed of their bodies--their breasts. Yes! ASHAMED! We are not taught to touch ourselves except when we bathe. We don't tend to teach our daughters how important it is for them to know their own bodies--to look in the mirror and examine themselves. Shame and fear are part of this. I am not a psychologist/pychiatrist, but personal experience has taught me that too many of us don't take better care of ourselves because we are "embarrassed" of our own bodies, and/or fear is an overwhelming force in our lives!. Well, ladies--I don't "pull any punches" or "allow the norms of our Christian upbringing" to stop me from shocking you into doing what you MUST to take better care of God's temple! So, here goes: TOUCH YOURSELF! Only you will know whether a bump is a regular occurrence during your cycle or whether it is something abnormal. Only you will know if one of your breasts does NOT look quite "right." You know, your spirit knows when something is not right. Remember that shame is not of God; God made you in HIS image: "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male AND female he created them." (Emphasis Mine; Genesis 1:27 NIV) Yes, most people do tend to leave the second part of this verse out, but God created me, a woman, in HIS image. Think about that! Therefore, it is important that we respect our bodies by taking care of this precious temple the Lord has made. We must not be ashamed of what God has created. We also all know that fear is not of God! Replace those negative thoughts with positive ones when you examine yourself. Like the commercial says, "JUST DO IT!" Perform your monthly breast self exams, even if you are not sure you are doing it correctly. Most libraries, doctors' offices, and/or clinics have videos on how to perform exams yourself-- borrow one today. There are also many groups that will teach you how to do one correctly. Finally, I realize that talking about sex is not a topic many Christians like to talk about--after all, we are far too holy for that! Well, . . . moving on: Your husband also knows your body--or rather, he should. Many times, a man is the one who finds that lump--educate him, and tell him to let you know when something is not "normal." Have you scheduled your mammogram? DO IT TODAY! Call a Friend to go with you, and make it a special event. Schedule your appointment at the same time as a friend, support each other, and then celebrate afterwards! [This is SO MUCH FUN! Try it! You will be surprised how much more relaxed you are.] No one to call? Join our Group and we will do all we can to find someone to go with you. E mail us: GodsClipOne@Hotmail.com WHEN to have a Mammogram: First Time = Age 40 40 - 49 = one every 1 - 2 years 50+ = every year. When recommended by doctor. TIPS on How to do a Breast Self Exam 1. Best time = immediately after your menstrual period (7 - 10 days after the start of your "period"). I examine my breasts EVERY time I shower. And I have noticed that I am more sensitive before my cycle, and I do tend to feel "lumps," which are quite normal. These are milk glands, and I usually notice them more when I am ovulating. 2 As you perform your exam, praise God for the miracle of you! Thank God for a body that is yielding to the Spirit's will. Cast out all fear. Don't perform an exam expecting to find something "bad" -- expect to find that everything is GREAT! The Bible tells us to lay hands on each other to heal--lay hands on YOURSELF, even before you get sick! (I was very surprised to read that Dr. Northrup endorses this type of "blessing" and "sending energies of caring and respect to this area of [the] body" (332).) 3. Examine yourself standing and lying down. 4. In the shower, lather each breast. With one arm raised above your head, use the alternate hand to examine yourself, feeling in a circular motion as you slowly move your hand around your breast, starting from the outside and moving in. Use the pads of your three middle fingers. Make sure you press down, even though you may be sensitive. 5. Look at yourself in the mirror to familiarize yourself with your breasts: their shape, color, and general "look." Then if you ever have any puckering/ indentations (anything that is not normal) you will notice it. Look at yourself with your arms at your sides, with your arms over your head, with your hands clasped under your chin while flexing your chest muscles, and also while you are bending forward, with your breasts hanging. This is not a favorite activity of mine, since I do not particularly like looking in the mirror (I'm working on this!) but if I can do it, you can too. 6. When you are lying down, place a small pillow or folded towel under your mid-back on the side you are examining. Rub lotion on your breasts and repeat the finger-pad exam I describe above. 7. NEVER, EVER curse your breasts (or any other part of your body)! 8. IF you find something that makes you uncomfortable, TELL SOMEONE and schedule an appointment because early detection will save your life. Don't allow FEAR to control your life. Also, please remember that oftentimes a lump is non-cancerous! Praise God! 9. FINALLY, teach your daughters to do this when they are young. If they are living away from home, even if they are married and are "too old" to be told anything, CALL THEM AND REMIND THEM TO EXAMINE THEIR BREASTS! They should be calling you and reminding you! Let's nag each other to LIFE! Anatomy of the Breast The following is copied directly from a handout I received in college. I apologize for not having the direct reference, but the information is basically general knowledge: The middle of the breast contains a dark circle, from pink to almost black, called the areola and nipple. The areola usually has small bumps on it which are sebaceous or oil glands that secrete a lubricant to protect the nipple during nursing. Nipples may lie flat, be inverted (go in), or stick out. All are normal. Nerves come into the nipple at the bottom of the areola. Directly behind the nipple and areola are the only muscles in our breasts. The inside of the breasts contain fat, connective tissue, and a milk-producing gland which contains the ducts that carry the milk to the nipple. The amount of fat that determines the size of the breast may be partly determined by heredity. The size also changes during different times of a woman's menstrual cycle, as well as during sexual stimulus, pregnancy, and nursing. [If you have never seen a picture of the inside of a breast, ask your doctor/nurse for a picture; or check a medical book in the library; or visit one of the medical sites on the Internet. (WebMD.com and Komen.org are good sources.) KNOW exactly what your doctor is talking about when he says, "You have ducto-carcinoma."] |
Auto-Examen de Sus Senos En la misma fecha cada mez (despues de su mensual), examine sus senos para ver cualquier cambio en la aprencia o sensacion de sus senos. Si encuentra un nodulo, una bolita dura o si su piel se endurece o hace hoyos deben llamar a su medico. Despues de los 40 anos, debe ver a su medico para un mamograma cada dos o tres anos. Si tiene una persona en su familia que ha tenido o tiene cancer del seno debe hablar con su doctor antes de que tenga 40 anos. Junto con su proprio examen, un examen de doctor y una mamograma, pueden advertir una situacion peligiosa. Examine sus senos siguiendo estos pasos: Acostada: Con una almohada bajo su hombro derecho, ponga la mano derecha bajo su cabeza. Examine el area entera del seno con las yemas de sus dedos de su mano zquierda. Su movimientos deben ser pequenos circulares, con una presion ligera, media y firme. Pase su mano de arriba a abajo a traves de toda el area del seno. Haga lo mismo con el seno izquierdo. Frente al espejo: Mirandose en el espejo, busque cambios en la forma or apariencia de sus senos. Mire para cambios en su piel o el pezon tal cmo hundimientos o secrecion del pezon. Mirese en estas cuatro maneras: sus brazos a su lados, brazos arriba, manos el las cadera presionando firmemente para tensar los musculos del pecho, e inclinada hacia el frente. No debe apurase si ve algo que no es normal. Preguntale a su medico. En la ducha: Con las manos enjabonadas y los dedos extendidos, examine sus senos usando la misma tecnica descrita en el paso "Acostada." Repita el mismo procedimento en el seno izquierdo. El jabon deja que sus manos peden sentir sus senos un poco mejor. Es importante que no se asuste--Muchas bolitas son normales. Hable con su medico y con otras mujeres. Dios ha creado su cuerpo. Usted debe conocerlo sin verguenza. Es una buen idea tambien de hablar con su esposo de esto. El debe saber que si siente una bolita que deber decirselo. |
What is on this page: [Click on each to scroll down to that section] Contacts |
How Important are Mammograms? [This information comes from The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation, NABCO, the American Cancer Society, and my personal experience.] The sooner cancer is detected, the sooner treatment can begin, the sooner one can return to a healthy life FREE of cancer! A mammogram, which is a low dose x-ray of the breast, is the best way to detect breast canner in its earliest AND most treatable stages. Each breast is flatten on a special x-ray machine that allows the technician to take different views of each breast. It is this "flattening" that is uncomfortable, but any pain will last for a few seconds. The larger the breast the more pressure the technician will use to to get the best image. A mammogram can detect a cancerous mass as small as .43 inches. When I viewed my mammogram, the mass was much smaller! However, the cancer had already spread to surrounding tissue but it was NOT visible on the mammogram! THIS is why it is vital that women begin to get their mammograms at age 40. Risks of developing breast cancer: By age 30 = one in 2,000 By age 40 = one in 233 By age 50 = one in 53 By age 60 = one in 22 By age 70 = one in 13 By age 80 = one in 9 EVER = one in 8! BIGGEST RISK: Being a woman and getting older [However, more men are being diagnosed.] "Approximately 40,200 women and 400 men will die of breast cancer this year." [2001 #s/SGK Item # 806-302] COSTS? Most insurance plans, including Medicare, will pay for screening mammograms. Check with your plan. If you do not have insurance, or your plan does not cover mammograms, there are a number of resources you can try to get information on getting a FREE or low-cost mammogram: Komen National Toll-Free Breast Care Helpline = 1-800-462-9273 National Alliance of Breast Cancer Organizations = 1-888-80-NABCO American Cancer Society = 1-800-ACS-2345 You may also e-mail us for more information = Godsclipone@hotmail.com [Tambien, nos pueden escribir. TODOS TIENEN SERVICIOS EN ESPANOL] Early Detection Saves Lives! Mammograms are VERY important. |
Disclaimer: This information is provided to encourage readers to become familiar with breast cancer. It is NOT meant to prescribe or replace advice from professional, medical personnel. |
Lymphedema In the section above, I discuss the importance of massaging your breast area to help distribute lymphatic fluid. After a masectomy and/or radiation treatment, it may become even more important for you to learn how to keep the fluid from accumulating in your arms. Lymphedema is a result of damaged lymph nodes or of their removal. Lymphatic fluid builds up in the arms which causes discomfort and pain. This does not happen to all women, but "studies have indicated that between 10 to 50 percent of breast cancer patients experience some lymphedema." (NABCO Fact Sheet/June 2003) There is currently no cure for this condition; therefore, treatment is vital. Contact the National Lymphedema Network at 1-800-541-3259 (www.lymphnet.org) for referrals to treatment centers, supports groups and other help. Treatment includes compression garments, bandages and pumps, as well as manual lymph drainage--massage. "Manual lymph drainage should not be performed if a woman has an infection or has congestive heart failure." (NABCO) Talk to your surgeon/doctor about this. If you are not comfortable with the information she gives you, contact the Network mentioned above. |
General Health Tips: If you worship me, the LORD your God, I will bless you with food and water and take away all of your sickness. . . . I will give you long lives. Exodus 23: 25 These are health tips that I usually recommend in our Day Conferences. Some of them are meant as suggestions to follow when you are sick; HOWEVER, it might be a good idea to continue practicing them once you are well again. As always, we recommend that you inform your doctor of any major changes in your diet that might affect your body if you are taking medication. It might be a good idea to keep a log/a diary of what you eat each day to note any changes in your body/mind.. 1. Drink those 8-10 glasses of water a day. I KNOW! It seems like such a daunting task, but the water will flush your system of toxins AND "lubricate" your body! I once told someone, "Make believe you are baptizing the inside of your body." 2. STOP eating white bread. Come on -- we all know this by now; don't we? The fiber from whole grain breads not only has more nutritional value, but it is great for your digestive tract. When you are sick, you want your digestion to be at its optimum. AND, after a while, you will realize just how tasty it is. Also try whole grain pasta and pancakes. I make it a habit of adding wheat germ to all of my dishes calling for flour. You can add a little at a time until you get used to the taste and the texture. If it were not for those little brown specks, my son would never guess I added it to his pancakes! The kids may complain at first, but eventually they get used to it, and so will you. 3. AVOID dairy products. This is a direct quote from HealthQuarters monthly newsletter dated February 2002: "Yes, I know you love 'em. And yes, I know that you thought dairy did a body good. But the truth about dairy products, regardless of what you've learned from clever marketing schemes, is that they help to promote calcium loss in bones. Dairy products, you see, burn down to an acid ash in the bloodstream after digestion. To remain in health, the bloodstream MUST maintain an alkaline balance. Calcium is robbed from the bones to help alkalinize the blood. Truth is, if you compared 3 1/2 ozs of any of the following to 3 1/2 ozs of cow's milk, you'd have more usable calcium from these plants: broccoli, mustard greens, watercress, turnip greens, kale, dandelion greens, collards, parsley, and kelp." [Emphasis mine] WOW! And this is not all. If you get off dairy products for six months, you may notice that your lungs are clearer. If you suffer from asthma, try this and find out for yourself! I have noticed this myself, AND I have seen it work on children too. 4. Cut the amount of sugar you ingest. I say "cut" because if I say eliminate, most of you are going to pass out! This one is especially difficult for me even though I have reduced the amount in my own diet; however, I find it VERY hard not to indulge. BUT when I was sick, I DID NOT touch it! I believe most of you know why this is a problem for us: high blood sugar, depletion of vital nutrients, weight gain, and so on. Sugar substitutes are also deadly. Wean yourself slowly [you will not have much of a choice because quite frankly sugar has "drug-like" characteristics in our bodies and most of us will have withdrawal symptoms]. 5. Eat food in its natural state. Eat raw, uncooked fruits and vegetables. For variety, LIGHTLY steam vegetables, but do not overcook into soggy mush. Of course, soups call for a different strategy, but we do get some of nutritional value lost from the vegetables in the broth. Organic foods are preferable, but are usually more expensive. Shop and compare because sometimes the organic produce may be the same price or lower than the regular products. DO scrub your produce; try to take out as much wax as possible. Use lemon juice or FIT to thoroughly clean the produce. I have provided all kinds of grains and all kinds of fruit for you to eat. Genesis 1: 29 6. Reduce your fat intake. Keep red meat to a minimum. Slowly reduce amounts. Get protein from other sources. Get enough Omega 3 essential fatty acids in your diet. Eat fish two or three times a week; work yourself up to this amount. 7. ELIMINATE ALL caffeine and alcoholic beverages from your diet. READ the labels. You will be surprised to see where you will find caffeine. YES, I use the "E" word because this is so vital to our well-being. Caffeine, as you know, causes "bumps and lumps" -- it disrupts the assimilation of your nutrients and usually only causes harm. If you have to wean yourself off coffee, try those hybrid kinds: half de-caf and half regular. Just think--that coffee is only adding to our teeth being . . . well, NOT white. Some of you may be drinking red wine for your hearts per your doctor's orders-- pray and decide what you should do about this. I personally do not think that a tiny bit of something will do much harm, but you know what happens when SOME of us add a LITTLE--we tend to increase it until . . well, you know what I mean. 8. Take the recommended supplements. 9. FAST and PRAY! PRAY and FAST. Don't be a heavy drinker or stuff yourself with food. Proverbs 23: 20 |
