During holidays, many people overindulge in food and drink, bringing health issues back into the spotlight. Recently, the “JOJO Health Talk” channel featured a doctor who shared two cases of 80-year-old individuals who reportedly eliminated liver cancer tumors by consuming sweet potato leaves and some vegetable and fruit juices. The host shared these cases and reminded the public to be aware of fatty liver disease.
An 80-year-old woman’s AFP index dropped from 4925 to 5.3 after eating sweet potato leaves
An 80-year-old woman with a history of hepatitis C and liver cancer was found to have a rising alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) index (critical value is 20) during a follow-up examination in 2022. Her AFP index increased from 7.5 in 2021 to 859 in 2022, then to 2350 in 2023, and finally to 4925 in 2023. CT and MRI scans revealed a 2 cm tumor.
Due to her age, the woman did not want surgery and only opted for supportive care. The doctor then suggested she try eating sweet potato leaves daily. Three months later, when she returned for a check-up, her AFP had dropped to 365. In 2024, another MRI confirmed that the tumor had disappeared, and her AFP subsequently dropped to 5.3.
Another 80-year-old woman with a 3.5 cm liver cancer tumor also refused surgery but agreed to follow-up examinations. This woman drank vegetable and fruit juice made from sweet potato leaves, apples, and onions every morning and evening. Although she was hospitalized for diarrhea due to excessive consumption, her tumor shrank from 3.5 cm to 1.8 cm and eventually disappeared.
Sweet potato leaves improve liver function. But people need to beware of three risks
JOJO stated that sweet potato leaves can improve liver function and lower liver AFP levels, particularly in patients with fatty liver disease. However, making homemade sweet potato leaf juice carries risks. The doctor reminds that this method of drinking vegetable juice is not suitable for everyone, for the following reasons:
- Vegetables like sweet potato leaves, if not washed thoroughly, can easily harbor insect eggs or bacteria. Cancer patients already have weaker immune systems, and drinking contaminated juice could lead to diarrhea or even intestinal infections.
- Many vegetables contain oxalic acid. People with poor kidney function who consume these vegetables may develop kidney stones, further worsening their kidney function.
- Ingredients such as carrots and wood ear mushrooms are high in potassium. Excessive consumption should be monitored for potential effects on blood pressure or kidney function.
Therefore, the doctor reminds the public that fruit and vegetable juices should be considered only as supplements. If you are diagnosed with liver cancer, you should still seek conventional medical treatment.
Fatty liver is a precursor to liver cancer and can also cause other cancers
JOJO states that studies have shown that people with fatty liver have a 60 percent increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease. This is because when the liver accumulates excess fat, it sends back excess blood sugar and lipids into the bloodstream, increasing the risk of myocardial infarction.
Fatty liver is not only a precursor to liver cancer but can also trigger systemic diseases. Studies show that fatty liver is associated with the risk of 8 types of cancer, including liver cancer, stomach cancer, colon cancer, pancreatic cancer, and breast cancer. The doctor points out that fatty liver problems may also be related to environmental hormones and plasticizers. Our bodies rely on the liver to detoxify toxins, but people with fatty liver already have a compromised liver that cannot effectively detoxify, leading to damage to other organs.
JOJO explains that fatty liver is not caused by eating too much oil, but rather by consuming too many sweets and starches. When sugar intake exceeds the body’s needs, it is converted into fat and stored in the liver, eventually leading to fatty liver. To improve fatty liver, four things should be done:
- Fruit and vegetable juices can be enjoyed in moderation, provided they are thoroughly washed and consumed in moderation.
- Reduce consumption of sweets and refined starches.
- Consume fruits in moderation; do not use them as a main meal.
- Undergo regular check-ups and follow-ups, and consult a doctor promptly if any problems are found.
Finally, JOJO reminds everyone that even when facing cancer, we should not lose hope. There are many excellent and positive methods that can help us become healthier. For example, some foods may help regulate immunity and inhibit the growth of cancer cells, such as grapes, blackcurrants, pomegranates, green beans, tomatoes, asparagus, garlic, turmeric, ginger, and Brazilian mushrooms.
Translated by Patty Zhang and edited by Amanda
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