Over the last 30 years, there has been a great deal of information accumulated in the literature concerning the carcinogenic process. It has been established that disruption of the delicate balance between cell growth and programmed cell death (apoptosis) in favor of the former by inhibiting or slowing down the latter, results in tumor formation. There are two apoptotic pathways: a) the so called “stress pathway” or intrinsic pathway which is initiated by profound damage to the DNA by either chemotherapy and/or radiation; and b) the extrinsic pathway which is initiated by binding of specific cytokines released by cells to their so called “death receptors” expressed on cancer cells also following heavy damage of the DNA. The binding of cytokines to their death receptors exposed on the cancer cells will result in programmed cell death. Both apoptotic pathways meet at the caspase level. Caspases are enzymes that initiate and perform apoptosis. There are several big differences between apoptosis in cancer cells and normal cells. A normal cell has a very efficient base excision repair system and any damage to DNA is immediately and efficiently repaired. By definition, a normal cell with irreparable DNA/mutations must undergo apoptosis because of activation of p53 through the intrinsic pathway. Some cells with mutations do not die because they are resistant to apoptosis. These cells become cancer cells. Most of the time, the apoptotic process is inhibited from inside the cell by the inhibitors of apoptosis (IAPs). Normal cells do not have any inhibitors of apoptosis.

Casein kinase 2 (CK2) is a kinase that is important for cell proliferation and is over-expressed in all types of cancer studied thus far. There is an overwhelming amount of data gathered in the literature demonstrating that CK2 is over-expressed in tumor cells and is involved in the apoptosis-resistance phenotype of most malignant cells. The emerging hypothesis is that high concentrations of CK2 generate a cellular environment that is favorable to both the establishment and the development of the tumor phenotype. CK2 is localized in the cytoplasm of normal cells. However, in cancer cells, CK2 is also localized in the nucleus and is deregulated, being elevated 3- to 7- fold. The up-regulation and hyperactivity of CK2 in the nucleus has an anti-apoptotic effect and is correlated with aggressive tumor behavior in a multitude of different cancer cell types examined.

Ellagic acid (abundant in pomegranate and red and black raspberries) has been identified as a very potent CK2 inhibitor. The Ki of ellagic acid for CK2 is 20 nM. It has been shown that ellagic acid alone will kill several cancer cell lines through the apoptotic process. Ellagic acid is found naturally in pomegranate and raspberries and is transformed into urolithins that remains in plasma for a longer time. There are a multitude of publications demonstrating that casein kinase 2 maintains a high concentration of IAPs inside the cancer cells. In contrast, a simple inhibitor of casein kinase 2 will induce cell death through apoptosis in all cancer cells studied thus far, without affecting any other normal cell/tissue.

We determined the content of ellagic acid and derivatives in Meeker Red Raspberry powder and in the Black Raspberry Seed powder. Ellagic acid and its derivatives from the two samples were first separated by high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) prior or after acid hydrolysis. It is noteworthy that acid hydrolysis of each powder releases several urolithins which were identified according to their molecular mass. The separated components were identified by mass spectrometry. Each peak was quantified and compared to a standard made of serial dilutions of purified ellagic acid. Under the conditions employed we have determined that the Meeker Red raspberry contains 0.128 ± 0.005 mg of pure ellagic acid per gram of powder, while the Black Raspberry Seed contains 0.38 ± 0.024 mg of pure ellagic acid per gram of powder.

Following acid hydrolysis (2 hrs in 2N HCl, 50% MeOH at 95°C) we have determined that the Meeker Red raspberry powder contains 23.7 ± 8.32 mg of ellagic acid and derivatives per gram of powder while the Black Raspberry Seed powder contains 41 ± 2.1 mg of ellagic acid and derivatives per gram of powder. The powders are usually dispensed orally with a scoop, provided within the container. The scoop contains 19 grams of powder. Under these conditions, two scoops of Meeker Red raspberry powder or of Black Raspberry Seed powder taken orally (and as a consequence subjected to acid hydrolysis in the stomach), will release approximately 1.1 gr and 1.6 gr respectively of ellagic acid and derivatives. In order to maintain a constant amount of ellagic acid and urolithins in the blood stream this procedure should be repeated daily or at least every other day.

Black Raspberries, affectionately known as “Blackcaps” by growers, are native to North America. These uniquely flavored berries are popular in specialty foods, especially jams and ice cream. The fruit is blue-black, round and small, and there’s a whitish bloom on the exterior of the berry. Black raspberries have a distinct and moderately tart flavor, small seed and like the red raspberry, contain a hollow core.

Extremely dark pigment allows black raspberries to be used as a coloring agent. The USDA stamp on meat was made with black raspberry dye for many years.
Common Names: Black raspberry, Blackcap, Framboisier de Virginie [French], Schwarze Himbeere [German], Frambueso negro [Spanish]

Health Benefits
The king of berries in terms of health benefits.

• Have extremely high overall level of phenolic compounds compared to other berries. Phenolic compounds such as ellagic acid, gallic acid and rutin contribute to the healthful benefits of black raspberries.
• Contain high levels of anthocyanins, which give black raspberries their rich, dark color. Anthocyanins work as antioxidants to help fight free radical damage in the body.
• Antioxidant levels of foods are sometimes measured as ORAC (oxygen radical absorption capacity). The ORAC level of black raspberries is 77 μmoles/TE/g, about three times higher than blueberries, a very powerful antioxidant.
• Rich in ellagic acid. Ellagic acid is a phenolic compound known to help fight cancer, viruses and bacteria.
• University studies are underway to determine black raspberries’ ability to slow the growth of certain cancers. In vitro studies have shown that extracts of raspberries and blackberries may slow the growth of breast, cervical, colon and esophageal cancers.
• Studies at Ohio State University showed a 60–80 % reduction in colon tumors in rats fed a diet with black raspberries added.
• Studies at Ohio State University showed an 80% reduction in esophageal cancers in mice fed a 5-10% diet of black raspberries
• Scientists from Ohio State are now conducting human clinical trials into the effects of black raspberries on colon and esophageal cancer in humans.

Click Here to order your Black Raspberrygold Powder!

The American Cancer Society recommends regular colon cancer screenings for patients 50 and older.

So if you’re over the age of 50 and you’ve never had one, what’s stopping you?

The screening is important for two reasons:

One: Colon cancer is one of the leading forms of cancer along with breast cancer and lung cancer. But it’s one of the most preventable forms of cancer because modern technology has given doctors the tools to spot colon cancer in its earliest stages while it’s still treatable and curable.

Two: There’s really no way a doctor could know whether you’re at risk for colon cancer by assessing your outward physical characteristics. People who are overweight and eat a bad diet might have excellent colon health, while a health nut on a vegan diet could be harboring cancerous polyps. Genetics seem to have as much to do with the potential for cancer as other factors, experts say.

But many people — especially older Americans — are reluctant to undergo a colonoscopy if they feel like they’re in good health.

The biggest obstacle to someone having a colonoscopy is fear of the procedure itself or fear of the findings. Embarrassment also plays a role.

A colonoscopy consists of having a thin flexible tube with a tiny high-definition camera on the end inserted into the large intestine through the rectum. This piece of equipment is called an endoscope and it allows for a visual examination of the entire length of the large intestine.

Patients are sedated to minimize discomfort. Before the procedure patients will undergo a “bowel prep.” Patients will ingest fluids that will cause bowel movements until the large intestine has been emptied.

Gastroenterologists tell their patients that the short-term discomfort of not eating and the process of bowel cleansing are minor compared to the importance of information gained and the potential to prevent colon cancer. Once you start eating normally again after the procedure your bowels quickly return to normal.

After the procedure, which is usually performed on an out-patient basis in an endoscopy center, a gastroenterologist will share the preliminary findings. Biopsies may have been taken during the colonoscopy and results will take several days to be processed.

During the colonoscopy, the doctor is looking for polyps. A polyp is a growth or extra tissue shaped like a mushroom or dome-like button that grows from the lining of the colon. Some are benign, some are precancerous and some are cancerous.

Using special equipment that is passed through the scope, the doctor can then remove polyps or obtain biopsies that are checked for cancer.

Depending on the results, you may be scheduled for follow-up colonoscopies. Patients at higher risk might come in once a year or every two years. Patients with low risk might go 10 years between screenings.

Anyone can have polyps, but certain people are more likely than others. You may have a greater chance of developing polyps if:

• You are over 50. The older you get, the more likely you are to develop polyps.

• You have had polyps before.

• Someone in your family had polyps.

• Someone in your family has colon cancer.

You may also be more likely to get polyps if you:

• Eat a lot of fatty foods.

• Smoke.

• Drink alcohol.

• Don’t exercise.

• Are overweight.

Fruits and vegetables contain beneficial chemicals called antioxidants which contribute to good health. People who eat diets rich in fruits – including berries – and vegetables seem to have a lower incidence of many cancers, including colon cancer.

To find out more about colon health, visit a gastroenterology practice. Many have literature, brochures and handouts that explain why colonrectal cancers are preventable and how colonoscopies are performed. Or visit the American Cancer Society’s website at http://www.cancer.org.

Since its inception in 1979, The Skin Cancer Foundation, a global organization that seeks the prevention, early detection and treatment of skin cancer, has recommended using a sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 15 or higher daily as one important part of a complete sun protection regimen.

Sunscreen alone is not enough. Here’s a full list of skin cancer prevention tips to follow during the summer months and all year long:

• Seek the shade, especially between 10 a.m., and 4 p.m.

• Do not get sunburned.

• Avoid tanning and tanning booths.

• Cover up with clothing, including a broad-brimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses when outside in the sun.

• Use a broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day. For extended outdoor activity, use a water-resistant, broad spectrum (UVA/UVB) sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.

• Apply 1 ounce (2 tablespoons) of sunscreen to your entire body 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply every two hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.

• Keep newborns out of the sun. Sunscreens should be used on babies over the age of six months.

• Examine your skin head-to-toe every month.

• See your doctor every year for a professional skin exam.

With a few simple precautions, you can enjoy time outdoors this summer without risking your skin’s health.

Summer has finally arrived, and that means it’s berry season. Not only are berries delicious, most are exceptionally good for you, each with its own nutritional benefits that make them a food you should include in your diet all year long.

Raspberry
Raspberries are not only one of our most favored flavors; they’re also one of the best functional foods you can eat. Raspberries contain ellagic acid, which is a powerful plant antioxidant. In the plants, this biochemical helps to regulate growth and seed germination, protects them from microbial infections and heavy metal poisoning and prevents insects from eating them. However, more and more research is pointing to ellagic acid in these tasty fruits as a potent, natural weapon against cancer in humans.

How Does Ellagic Acid Fight Cancer?

Ellagic acid stimulates activities of enzymes that detoxify carcinogens. Plus, ellagic acid is anti-mutagenic, antibacterial and anti-viral as well as anti-carcinogenic!

Ellagic acid:

· Acts as a scavenger that “binds” to cancer-causing chemicals and inactivates them

· Inhibits the ability of chemicals to cause dangerous mutations in bacteria

· Prevents cancer-causing substances from binding to DNA

· Reduces cancer in cultured human cells that have been exposed to carcinogens

· Promotes apoptosis, or cell death, of cancer cells without harming healthy cells, a process that may be beneficial in fighting prostate, breast, lung, esophageal and skin cancers

And, previous animal tests showed that eating large amounts of raspberries could fight esophageal and colon cancers.

Research at the Hollings Cancer Center the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) has also found powerful cancer-fighting potential from ellagic acid. According to their studies, ellagic acid slows the growth of abnormal colon cells in humans and prevents cells infected with human papillomavirus (HPV), which is linked to cervical cancer, from developing.

Ellagic acid is not just good for fighting cancer. Studies have found that it may also fight heart disease, reduce the risk of birth defects and speed wound healing.

Ellagic acid also:

· Fights the H. pylori bacteria that’s linked to stomach ulcers

· Protects the liver and liver function

· Helps to reduce glucose levels, which can help keep diabetes under control

Furthermore, just-released research from the University Of South Florida College Of Medicine, James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital and the National Institute on Drug Abuse found that eating certain antioxidant-rich foods like raspberries may also limit the damage done by strokes and other neurological disorders.

Where is Ellagic Acid Found?

Raspberries are by far the richest source of ellagic acid known by researchers to date. However, it appears that strawberries, pomegranates, blueberries, blackberries, cranberries, pecans and walnuts may also contain some, although in smaller amounts.