CancerCompass message board discussion started by Akiko W. on 1/13/2002 http://www.cancercompass.com/message-board/message/all,284,0.htm Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT Tue, 07 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://backend.userland.com/rss RSS.NET: http://www.rssdotnet.com/ Hello! I wonder if anyone has experience using MGN-3 for Breast Cancer, the cancer-fighting treatment made from fungal mycelium, etc. I am interested to learn of any experiences (success or failures) using this treatment. Thank you. Akiko Akiko W. Sun, 13 Jan 2002 00:00:00 GMT Has anyone had positive results from MGN-3? My father is diagnosed and is pretty far along, and at 76 they think he won't tolerate chemo well. We feel he doesn't have very long and are wondering if anyone else has tried MGN-3. Kathy S. Kathy S. Mon, 08 Apr 2002 00:00:00 GMT how has your treatment been with mgn3? My father was recently diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer and has less than 2 months to live. At 76 they don't feel he would tolerate chemo and would be miserable his last days so we're trying mgn3. Please Please reply. Kathy s. Kathy S. Mon, 08 Apr 2002 00:00:00 GMT I have been using it for the last year or more. About 3 months ago I discontinued its use because I was not sure of its effectiveness and it is expensive. My tumor markers went down and stabilized at an extremely low rate. Since discontinuing it my tumor markers have now started to go up again. I have metastatic breat cancer in the liver. It is generally considered inoperable. I have not tried chemo for this particular cancer. Diana T. Tue, 16 Apr 2002 00:00:00 GMT Recent posted messages to this site has made it apparent that many individuals are seeking guidance about the efficacy of MGN-3. Here's my take on it: MGN-3 is a product that has been touted to enhance immunity. While I haven't seen any independent studies specific to the product, I have reviewed test tube and animal studies that prove that the cancer fighting compounds found in the product (glucans extracted from mushrooms, algae, and some grains) have demonstrated the ability to boost immune system response by increasing the activity of IL-2 and tumor necrosis factor. Sounds promising! In my clinical practice, I have observed individuals that have received positive benefits from taking this product. Although I haven't read of reported toxicity or negative side effects associated with the product, I have observed some people get an unexplained rash. For that reason, I typically do not recommend mushroom extracts for individuals who might have intolerances or allergies to molds or yeasts. And, if someone has been diagnosed with candiasis (yeast infection), I have them avoid these kinds of products as well. Cost, as well, is an issue. There are less expensive ways to boost immunity. One of the key things to remember when supplementing your diet with immune stimulators is the rule of synergism. As with anything, a variable approach to fighting cancer naturally just makes good sense. One supplement may aid immunity, but are you supporting healthy cell rebuilding? protecting healthy cells? decreasing your risk of toxicity, etc.? I recommend seeking guidance to cover all of your nutritional bases and to ensure that you are doing everying necessary to achieve optimal results with your nutrition program. Kim Dalzell, PhD, RD, LD Author, Challenge Cancer and Win! www.challengecancer.com Dr. Kim Sat, 20 Apr 2002 00:00:00 GMT In October 1995, I had a right upper lobectomy. My doctor found no trace of spreading. In 1998, the cancer returned perched on the left Adrenal Gland. Surgery removed most but not all of the cancer. In March 1999, I had 25 radiation treatments. Cancer was diagnosed in remission. I started taking MGN-3 immediately after surgery in December 1998. Cancer is still in remission. I don't know for sure whether MGN-3 is responsible for the long remission, but I won't stop using it at this stage. I'm also taking Immunofin, which is supposed to stumulate growth of NK and T cells. Bob Robert G. Tue, 06 Aug 2002 00:00:00 GMT What is MGN-3? My husband has lung cancer. He went thru chemo and radiation 9 months ago. The Oncologist told him he is stable. If it should start spreading or growing there is nothing they can do. They were not able to remove it because it spread to the lymph nodes. Can someone tell us what MGN-3 is and who to contact about it? Thanks. August Z. Thu, 08 Aug 2002 00:00:00 GMT I am sorry to hear about the cancer. MGN-3 is an antioxidant supplement that boosts "killer cells". Thx, Dan Dan C. Fri, 09 Aug 2002 00:00:00 GMT My husband has cancer in his chest that spread to his spine. His white blood count was low due to the chemo and I started him on MGN-3. I have to admit that while taking this vitamin he did not have to take the recommended shots to build up his white cell count. When we ran out of the MGN-3, he did have to go back on the shots between chemo sessions. Our Dr. doesn't think that these products are any better than regular over the counter vitamins. My opinion is that they are better and I have reordered them. My daughter told me about MGN-3 when a friend of hers took them while under treatment for an inoperable tumor attached to her aorta. They helped her and I decided it was worth it to give them a try. It was a good decision as far as I am concerned. They gave my husband 6 to 8 weeks to live. It is now 8 months later and he is better than ever. Paula H. Tue, 13 Aug 2002 00:00:00 GMT I was diagnosed 2 year, 4 months ago with Multiple Myeloma. I started on MGN-3 in September 2000. I have had NO chemo to date but do take Aredia for the bones. God Bless. Bill L. Sun, 18 Aug 2002 00:00:00 GMT I am trying it, my neighbor has colon cancer and I am borderline, but my family doctor told me to take it and told me to double up on the dosage. I only know that my family doctor told me that it helps the immune system and I have read articles in my health magazine that it is supposed to make tumors smaller. Cyndi and I will hope and pray for you. Cyndi T. Sat, 24 Aug 2002 00:00:00 GMT Kathi, I have had success using MGN-3 as part of a comprehensive nutritional treatment plan. Is it the MGN-3, the macrobiotic diet, the Hoxsey or Essiac or other herbal tratment that results in improvement? Don't know. Do know that cleaning out toxins, eating a whole food diet, and supporting the immune system with medicianl mushrooms and herbs helps. Stress is a major toxin that needs addressed also. So mental and spiritual parameters should also be included. Use nutritional treatments in conjunction with conventional treatment methods which assist in debulking the tumor mass(es). But simply debulking the tumor without addressing the underlying causes generally will not induce the body to heal itself. That is what nutrition, emotion and spirit are good for. Kevin L. Thu, 05 Sep 2002 00:00:00 GMT I recommend it to all patients that have had a history of cancer and use it to treat active cases as well. My observation is that most people benefit from using MGN-3 and/or other immune enhancing phytonutrients. Kevin L. Thu, 05 Sep 2002 00:00:00 GMT Can I hear more about this? How often do you take it? What form is it? How is it available? Is there a website? Annette D. Sun, 01 Dec 2002 00:00:00 GMT Please email me and put as subject "mgn-3". Thank you, my email is --- Message edited by CancerCompass staff: for personal protection, email address removed. Please review CancerCompass Member Guidelines at http://www.cancercompass.com/common/guidelines.html ---- Lillian D. Sun, 15 Dec 2002 00:00:00 GMT You can also buy MGN-3 at --- Message edited by CancerCompass staff: for personal protection, url removed. Please review CancerCompass Member Guidelines at http://www.cancercompass.com/common/guidelines.html ---- Betty D. Mon, 20 Jan 2003 00:00:00 GMT Kim Dalzell, Is the IP-6 similar to the MGN-3, would you recommend the IP-6 over the MGN-3, or are they two totally different drugs? Tommy thomas c. Thu, 06 Feb 2003 00:00:00 GMT Dear Tommy, IP-6 and MGN-3 are dietary supplements that have reported immune-stimulating benefits. But that is where the similiarities stop. IP-6 is derived from a fiber component known as phytic acid and there have been several impressive anticancer effects demonstrated on animals using this product. MGN-3 is made from maitake and rice bran. Although I've seen product/consumer literature on MGN-3 touting its benefits, I have not seen scientific studies conducted on that particular product. It is my belief that there is no one "magic" bullet against cancer. You should aim to stimulate immunity and protect cells with a number of dietary supplements and foods. I would suggest seeking counsel as to the most effective dietary supplements based on your individual needs. Cancer Resource Center, 800.940.2822 offers such services. Regards, Kim Dalzell, PhD, RD, LD Director, Holistic Nutrition Services Author, Challenge Cancer and Win! Dr. Kim Tue, 11 Feb 2003 00:00:00 GMT Hello, I am currently taking mgn-3 for metastatic (bone) breast cancer. I have not had any miraculous results, and have been taking it since November. I will say that I did not get any colds or flu this past winter, which is quite amazing. Mgn-3 is giving my family some hope in managing my disease. They don't feel quite so helpless. Best of luck!!! Andrea D. Mon, 21 Apr 2003 00:00:00 GMT I was diagnosed with urethral cancer in 1998. After surgery in January 2000 I went into remission until a spot showed up in October 2002. I recently began taking MGN-3, Cell Forte with IP-6, vitamin A, Coral Calcium Plus, Selenium, vitamin E, Milk Thistle Extract, and a blend of Sheep Sorrel, Burdock Rood, Slippery Elm Bark and Turkey Rhubarb Root extract (Essiac). I have not seen the doctor yet since I started taking these supplements. Do you see any benefits or any problems w/taking all of these at the same time? Mary W. Wed, 28 May 2003 00:00:00 GMT Dear Mary, I'm very glad that you wrote to Cancer Treatment Centers of America with your question. I say that because your question elicits a response that I believe all cancer patients need to hear. As many as 81% of all cancer patients take some form of diet or diet supplement therapy, and most (based on my clinical experience over the past 11 years) have told me that they are confused by the conflicting and overwhelming amount of nutrition information that is out there. Many people begin to self-prescribe their own nutrition regimens. While I believe strongly in proactive nutrition and supplemental therapy for cancer patients, I feel just as strongly that: 1) Doctors should be immediately informed of any changes to the diet or supplements that you are taking. Why? If you develop a reaction (skin rash, pain in joints, etc.) from taking a particular supplement, you would most likely report those symptoms to your doctor, who (not knowing of your supplement usage) might attribute them to treatment toxicity and pull you off of your current chemotherapy or radiation treatments, delay surgery, or treat you with unnecessary medications. You need to communicate to your doctor all that you do so that he or she can best help you recover. 2) Guided nutritional therapy is critical, especially in this world of fast, market savvy information about nutrition. Taking too many supplements and herbs (some of which can interfere with prescription medications or interact with each other), consuming an unsafe or ineffective dosage, or taking the wrong form of a nutrient may delay your recovery and defeat your purpose for beginning a nutrition regimen. Additionally, many dietary supplements are manufactured and sold under the guise of evidence-based medicine and they are nothing more than expensive cure-all promising products that deliver hype and a hefty bill to your door. I recommend that you find a qualified health care professional in your area that has a background both in cancer and nutrition. Or, if you are interested, telephone consultations with oncology nutritionists at Cancer Resource Center 800.940.2882 are available for a fee. These one-hour sessions will guide you about which foods and supplements are safe and effective for your situation. For those individuals who prefer the self-guided approach, my book Challenge Cancer and Win! provides diet and vitamin plans for sixteen different cancers, and includes information on a number of accessory dietary supplements like Essiac tea and shark cartilage. Because I don't know enough about your individual health situation to make judgements about the supplements you are taking (nor do I know dosages or your particular usage of each), I can't comment on the safety or efficacy of your plan. I can, however, tell you that based on my experience and your list, I believe you probably are taking ineffective dosages or hyped up products. My final advice is: before heading to the health food store, check with a professional. Invest wisely in your health and future! Healthy Regards, Kim Dalzell, PhD, RD, LD Director, Holistic Nutrition Services Author, Challenge Cancer and Win! www.challengecancer.com Dr. Kim Thu, 29 May 2003 00:00:00 GMT It helped my 8cm. tumor to shrink I stopped taking it and my tumor stopped shrinking can it start shrinking again? Stage 111B Adenocarsoma of the lower right lung spots in other lobes and lymths nodes all shrank but one node while I ate right and took MGN 3 marlene r. Sat, 06 Sep 2003 00:00:00 GMT I've been reading all your notes about MGN-3 and wonder how effective it might be for tongue cancer? My father (66 yrs, an ex-smoker) has been diagnosed with terminal tongue cancer and while the doctors are recommending surgery for the fourth time (the removal of the whole tongue this time), this only gives him a 30% survival rate. The other option is the non-surgical route by which they give him a year to live. I want to explore all credible options and avoid surgery. Any advice much appreciated. Veema, London, UK Veema S. Mon, 13 Oct 2003 00:00:00 GMT Can you please tell me the recommended dose of MGN-3 to help prevent a recurrence of nsclc-adenocarcinoma? I have been in remission for 2 years. Thanks. Alisa B. Mon, 20 Oct 2003 00:00:00 GMT AFTER BEING DIAGNOSED WITH CLL I BOUGHT THIS EXPENSIVE PRODUCT AND IT DID ABSOLUTELY NOTHING TO DETER MY UPCOMING SYMPOMS WHICH RESULTED IN AN AGGRESSIVE CHEMOTHERAPY PROTOCAL. I HAD TO DISCONTINUE USING MGM-3 WHEN I HAD A SEVERE TOTAL BODY RASH REACTION. A WORD OF ADVICE: IF YOU ARE RECEIVING CHEMOTHERAPY TELL YOUR ONCOLOGIST THAT YOU WANT TO TAKE SULPHA TO PROTECT YOU AGAINST A DEADLY DORMANT BUG WE ALL HAVE IN OUR BODY CALLED PNEUNO CYSTIS, THE DISEASE PEOPLE WITH AIDS DIE FROM. AFTER MY FIFTH ROUND OF CHEMO THIS DISEASE ALMOST KILLED ME. IF YOU RELAPSE WITHIN TWO YEARS AFTER CHEMO, FIND A CLL SPECIALIST. MOST ONCOLOGIST DON'T HAVE THE ABILITY TO TREAT CLL PROPERLY. HARVEY Harvey L. Sun, 25 Jul 2004 00:00:00 GMT My wife has metestatic breast cancer in the liver, she is on arimidex, gemzar, navalbine, once a month faslodex. please tell me what MGN-3 is and if it helps and where I can get it. My wife is only 44 yrs. old and we have four small children, any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank You, Seth R. seth R. Tue, 07 Sep 2004 00:00:00 GMT