Immunity Protocol + Gut Restoration
THE TERRAIN TEN: OUR APPROACH TO CANCER AND CHRONIC CONDITIONS.
The Terrain Ten are the core components that influence mitochondrial function and, by extension, your metabolic health. Mitochondria? Metabolic health? If these terms feel overwhelming, don’t worry – I’ll break it down for you!
Understanding and addressing the Terrain Ten allows us to achieve better outcomes for patients. It gives us a clear picture of where to direct our energy and efforts, tailoring each step to your unique needs. These ten key areas, based on my decades of experience and research, form the foundation of how I assess and guide each patient towards healing.
And when I say healing, I mean truly addressing the root causes of illness. We aren’t just trying to “add time” like conventional care protocols often do. Instead, we aim to restore balance and resolve the underlying damage and trauma that led to a cancer diagnosis – or any other chronic condition. In many cases, standard treatments can add insult to injury, further damaging the terrain. This is why it’s essential to assess and manage your terrain properly.
WHAT ARE THE TEN KEY AREAS?
Epigenetics
Epigenetics literally means “above the gene.” These are the modifications to our DNA, inherited from our ancestors, that impact our health. These small genetic variations, or “hiccups,” can predispose us to things like metabolic disorders, digestive issues, autoimmune conditions, and even neurotransmitter imbalances. By integrating genetic testing into your personalized health roadmap, we can understand why certain conditions manifest and how to navigate the best path forward.
Blood Sugar Balance
Did you know that 88% of Americans struggle with metabolic flexibility? This means their bodies can’t easily switch between burning fat and sugar for fuel. Many people are unaware they have blood sugar issues because these imbalances often go undiagnosed. Understanding and correcting your body’s metabolism is critical, especially for cancer patients, because cancer cells thrive on glucose due to their damaged mitochondria. Restoring balance here is essential for long-term health and vitality.
Toxic Burden
In today’s world, avoiding toxins is nearly impossible. From pesticides on our food to chemicals in our personal care products, our bodies are constantly exposed. While reducing these exposures is a great first step, we also offer a wide range of tests to identify specific toxic burdens. From there, we create a personalized, safe detoxification plan to help alleviate this load on your system.
Microbiome / Digestive Function/nutritional deficiencies
Your microbiome – the trillions of microbes living in your body – affects everything from immune function to mood. A disrupted microbiome can lead to inflammation and poor nutrient absorption, making it harder for your body to heal. We assess your gut health through labs and a thorough review of your history to understand how well your digestive system is functioning and identify any potential imbalances or deficiencies that need addressing.
Immune Function
Immune health isn’t just about how often you get sick. Your immune system could be overactive, underactive, or even attacking your own body, as seen in autoimmune diseases. We evaluate your immune markers to help you understand your body’s defense mechanisms and how to support them effectively, whether they’re overreacting or need a boost.
Inflammation and Oxidative Stress
Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury or infection, but when it becomes chronic, it leads to oxidative stress – a process that damages cells and tissues. Inflammation and oxidative stress fuel each other, worsening your health over time. Regular monitoring and management of these factors are crucial for preventing further damage and promoting healing.
Blood Circulation & Angiogenesis
Some patients are prone to poor circulation or have thick, “sticky” blood, which we assess through lab work and genetic testing. This can affect overall health, and in cancer patients, poor circulation can promote tumor growth by signaling the creation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis). We work to address these issues and ensure optimal blood flow throughout your body.
Hormone Balance
Hormonal imbalances can affect anyone, not just women of reproductive age. Stress, sleep issues, trauma, obesity, and insulin resistance all impact hormonal health. Through comprehensive testing, we assess your hormonal balance and provide personalized recommendations to help restore equilibrium, whether you’re dealing with adrenal fatigue, thyroid issues, or other hormonal disruptions.
Stress & Biorhythms
Chronic stress and disrupted sleep patterns are often the silent drivers behind many chronic diseases. If your circadian rhythm is off – meaning you aren’t sleeping in sync with natural light cycles – it’s a sign that your terrain needs support. We help you realign your body’s natural rhythms, promoting better sleep and lowering stress levels.
Mental & Emotional Health
Every one of us carries trauma, whether it’s from childhood or more recent life events. Unresolved trauma can manifest as physical illness, so addressing mental and emotional health is a critical part of healing. We work with you to identify the best methods for processing trauma and supporting your emotional well-being, ensuring it doesn’t continue to impact your long-term health.
By addressing all ten areas, we approach healing from a comprehensive, individualized perspective. Your journey is unique, and so is the path we take to restore balance to your terrain. This integrative approach enables us to shift the focus from merely surviving to truly thriving.