Carcinoembryonic Antigen (CEA) is a protein that can be found in the blood. While it is often used as a tumor marker, particularly for certain cancers, its presence alone does not confirm a cancer diagnosis. CEA levels can be elevated due to various non-cancerous conditions as well. This article explores complementary, natural approaches that support overall health and may indirectly influence CEA levels.
What Elevated CEA Levels Mean
While CEA is commonly associated with certain cancers like colorectal, lung, and breast cancers, elevated levels can also result from numerous non-cancerous conditions. These include inflammatory bowel diseases (Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis), pancreatitis, liver diseases (cirrhosis, hepatitis), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), benign breast disease, peptic ulcers, and diverticulitis. Smoking is another common cause of elevated CEA; smokers have higher baseline levels than non-smokers. Normal CEA levels for non-smokers are below 3 ng/mL, while for smokers, they can be up to 5 ng/mL. An elevated CEA level always warrants further medical investigation to determine the underlying cause and should be interpreted by a healthcare provider in the context of a patient’s full medical history and other diagnostic tests.
Dietary Approaches to Support Health
Adopting a balanced diet can support overall health and potentially influence inflammatory markers. Including a wide array of fruits and vegetables is beneficial due to their antioxidant content. Berries, for instance, are rich in antioxidants like quercetin, known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Leafy greens such as spinach and kale also provide antioxidants that help combat cell-damaging free radicals.
Incorporating foods with anti-inflammatory properties is beneficial. Omega-3 fatty acids, found in fatty fish like salmon, are known for their anti-inflammatory effects. Spices such as turmeric, which contains curcumin, have also shown anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Limiting the intake of processed foods, excessive sugar, and red meat is recommended, as these items can contribute to inflammation. A Mediterranean-style diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, fish, poultry, and olive oil, with minimal red meat, has been linked to reduced oxidative stress and lower incidence of certain diseases.
Lifestyle Changes for Wellness
Engaging in regular physical activity contributes to overall well-being. Exercise can help manage stress and improve sleep quality, both intertwined with general health. Moderate-intensity physical activities improve sleep quality.
Stress reduction techniques, such as meditation and yoga, also support health. These practices can help lower cortisol levels, a hormone associated with stress. Adequate sleep is equally important, linked to improved overall health and better stress management.
An important lifestyle change for individuals with elevated CEA levels is smoking cessation. Studies have shown that CEA levels are significantly higher in smokers compared to non-smokers. Within three months of quitting smoking, elevated CEA levels have been observed to decline to within the range of non-smokers. This reduction highlights the direct link between smoking and CEA levels.
The Importance of Medical Guidance
Natural approaches to health are complementary and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring. If you have elevated CEA levels, it is important to consult with your healthcare provider. A doctor will interpret CEA results with your complete medical history and other diagnostic tests to determine the underlying cause.
Making significant dietary or lifestyle changes, especially if you are currently undergoing medical treatment, should always be discussed with your healthcare team. They provide personalized advice and ensure natural strategies align safely with your overall health plan. Relying solely on natural methods without professional medical oversight can delay appropriate diagnosis and treatment for serious conditions.