Hidden Drivers of Recurrence
Not all cancer cells are alike. Some are more resilient, able to survive treatment and seed new growth. These are known as cancer stem cells (CSCs) and circulating tumor cells (CTCs). While invisible to standard scans, they can influence recurrence if the body’s terrain remains imbalanced.
Dr. Karlfeldt emphasizes that understanding these cells is not meant to create fear—but to empower patients with strategies that calm and regulate them naturally.
Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs)
CSCs are “master cells” that can self-renew and regenerate tumors. They thrive in environments with chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and nutrient deficiencies. By supporting the body’s terrain—reducing inflammation, improving oxygenation, and supplying essential nutrients—you can discourage these cells from dominating.
Circulating Tumor Cells (CTCs)
CTCs are cancer cells that break away from the primary tumor and travel through the bloodstream. Their presence doesn’t automatically mean disease progression, but elevated levels can indicate that the terrain is hospitable to abnormal growth. Strengthening immunity, reducing systemic stress, and improving detox pathways can help neutralize the impact of CTCs.
Natural Strategies to Calm CSCs and CTCs
- Anti-inflammatory nutrition: Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods that reduce oxidative stress.
- Targeted supplementation: Support detoxification, immune function, and cellular repair with guidance from an integrative practitioner.
- Movement & circulation: Regular exercise enhances lymphatic flow, detoxification, and cellular communication.
- Stress reduction: Meditation, breathwork, and emotional healing lower cortisol and create a less favorable environment for CSCs and CTCs.
- Optimizing oxygenation: Practices like deep breathing, oxygen therapies, or gentle cardiovascular exercise improve tissue oxygenation.
By addressing the terrain comprehensively, you create an environment where these resilient cells are less likely to proliferate.
Takeaway Reflection:
What hidden factors might be influencing your healing terrain? Which small, daily adjustments could help create a cellular environment that discourages recurrence?
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