The Role of Free Radicals in Causing Cancer - Part 1

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Written by Dr. Linda Kennedy MS SLP ND

Free radicals are non-political... and are formed when certain chemicals interact with oxygen or fats. These substances have dual purposes in the human body. At low concentrations, free radicals actually protect against infection and aid in cellular signaling, which helps all bodily systems to function more efficiently. However, at higher concentrations, free radicals can damage cell structures. This oxidative damage accumulates during life and, over time, can cause a number of chronic diseases, among which is cancer.

Free radicals are commonly produced by exposure to various metals such as iron, copper and chromium. Iron normally functions by helping to transport oxygen to tissues. However, when excess iron is in the circulation, greater amounts of oxygen are transported, which leads to oxygen free radical formation.

In fact, higher iron concentrations in the bloodstream are linked to a greater risk of vascular disease, cancer, and neurological disorders. Intestinal exposure to iron from eating meat excessively is also a main cause of colorectal cancer in developed countries. Occupational exposure to asbestos increases lung cancer risk and is the second most important cause after smoking. High copper concentrations can increase cancer risk and can promote the spread of tumors. Chromium is often purported to offer a number of health benefits including regulation of glucose levels. However, in high concentrations, chromium is toxic and carcinogenic.

Regardless of the metal source, it has been estimated that each cell in the human body is attacked by some type of free radical about 150,000 times each day. These attacks ultimately cause permanent damage to DNA and are the initial steps of carcinogenesis and aging.

Collectively, the process of DNA damage and signaling interference contribute to the development of cancer in several ways. First, increased DNA synthesis may induce cell mutations in dividing cells. Second, a process known as apoptosis is triggered, a normal bodily activity which when uncontrolled can lead to proliferation to proliferation of cancerous cells.

Unfortunately, people and animals alike often consume dangerous levels of metals in their diet. In fact, standard dog food contains extremely high concentrations of a variety of metals as a primary ingredient as well as by unsanitary preparation methods. It is no wonder that dogs suffer sky-rocketing rates of chronic disease, just as humans do.

Interestingly, the physiology of a dog is remarkably similar to that of a human. Therefore, the same strategies used by humans to combat free radicals in the diet can be applied to dogs as well. The main weapon in the arsenal against free radical damage is antioxidant consumption. Part 2 of this article series will discuss the protective role of antioxidants and how they protect against free radical-induced chronic disease.

Dr. Linda Kennedy MS SLP ND: Dr. Kennedy spends her time writing and researching the merits of natural health for both her patients and readers alike. She owns a laboratory where she produces custom supplements for her patients and wholesalers. In her spare time, her hobby is raising and training Dobermans, sometimes referred to as Doberman Pinschers for personal protection and search and rescue. Her dogs live the “natural life” as well.