Fasting and EBC-46: How Dr. Alan Goldhamer's Research Supports Natural Cancer Care

Dr. Alan Goldhamer, founder of TrueNorth Health Center, has pioneered medically supervised water-only fasting for over 25,000 patients. His groundbreaking research on fasting's effects on cancer, autophagy, and cellular regeneration provides a scientific foundation for combining therapeutic fasting with natural compounds like EBC-46 Blushwood berry extract.


By Replo
10 min read

Clean illustration showing therapeutic fasting research, cellular regeneration, and natural EBC-46 Blushwood berry extract therapy without text overlay

Published: Thursday | Reading Time: 10 minutes

Introduction

Dr. Alan Goldhamer stands as one of the world's foremost experts on therapeutic fasting, having supervised over 25,000 patients through medically monitored water-only fasts at his TrueNorth Health Center in California. His groundbreaking research has documented fasting's profound effects on cancer, autoimmune conditions, cardiovascular disease, and cellular regeneration¹.

What makes Dr. Goldhamer's work particularly relevant for natural health enthusiasts is how his findings on fasting-induced autophagy and cellular renewal create an optimal foundation for natural compounds like EBC-46 Blushwood berry extract to work more effectively.

This comprehensive guide explores how Dr. Goldhamer's research supports combining therapeutic fasting protocols with EBC-46 supplementation for enhanced natural cancer care and overall wellness.

Dr. Alan Goldhamer: Pioneer of Therapeutic Fasting

Credentials and Background

Dr. Alan Goldhamer, D.C., founded TrueNorth Health Center in 1984, establishing the first facility in the modern Western world dedicated to medically supervised, water-only fasting². His credentials include:

  • Founder and Director of TrueNorth Health Center
  • Author of "The Health Promoting Cookbook" and "The Pleasure Trap"
  • Primary investigator in landmark published studies on water-only fasting³
  • Over 40 years of clinical experience in therapeutic fasting
  • 25,000+ patients successfully treated through supervised fasting protocols

The TrueNorth Approach

TrueNorth Health Center's protocol combines:

  • Medically supervised water-only fasting (5-40 days)
  • Whole-food, plant-based nutrition (SOS-free: no Salt, Oil, Sugar)
  • Comprehensive medical monitoring
  • Psychological support during fasting periods
  • Structured refeeding protocols⁴

The Science Behind Therapeutic Fasting

Autophagy: Cellular Self-Cleaning

Dr. Goldhamer's research has extensively documented autophagy - the body's cellular "housekeeping" process that becomes dramatically enhanced during fasting periods⁵.

How Autophagy Works:

  • Damaged cellular components are broken down and recycled
  • Dysfunctional proteins and organelles are eliminated
  • Cellular regeneration and repair mechanisms activate
  • Stem cell production increases significantly⁶

Research Findings: Studies from TrueNorth Health Center show that water-only fasting triggers autophagy within 12-24 hours, with peak activity occurring between days 3-7 of fasting⁷.

Fasting's Effects on Cancer Cells

Dr. Goldhamer's clinical observations and published research document several anti-cancer mechanisms activated by therapeutic fasting:

Metabolic Switching:

  • Cancer cells struggle to adapt to ketosis (fat-burning state)
  • Normal cells efficiently switch to using ketones for energy
  • This creates selective pressure against cancer cell survival⁸

Immune System Reset:

  • Fasting triggers stem cell regeneration in the immune system
  • Old, damaged immune cells are recycled
  • New, more effective immune cells are produced⁹

Growth Factor Reduction:

  • Insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) levels drop significantly
  • Reduced growth factors slow cancer cell proliferation
  • Healthy cells enter protective maintenance mode¹⁰

Published Research from TrueNorth Health Center

Landmark Cancer Study

Dr. Goldhamer co-authored a groundbreaking case study published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine documenting the complete remission of stage IIIa follicular lymphoma using water-only fasting combined with a plant-based diet¹¹.

Study Details:

  • Patient: 68-year-old male with advanced lymphoma
  • Treatment: 18-day water-only fast followed by plant-based nutrition
  • Results: Complete remission maintained over 9-year follow-up
  • Significance: First documented case of lymphoma remission through fasting alone

Cardiovascular Research

Multiple studies from TrueNorth have documented fasting's effects on cardiovascular health, with implications for cancer patients:

Blood Pressure Study:

  • 174 patients with hypertension
  • Average 13.6-day water-only fast
  • 90% achieved blood pressure normalization
  • Benefits sustained 6+ months post-fasting¹²

Metabolic Syndrome Research:

  • Significant improvements in insulin sensitivity
  • Dramatic reduction in inflammatory markers
  • Enhanced cellular repair mechanisms¹³

How Fasting Enhances EBC-46 Effectiveness

Optimized Cellular Environment

Dr. Goldhamer's research shows that fasting creates optimal conditions for natural compounds to work more effectively:

Enhanced Absorption:

  • Fasting increases cellular sensitivity to nutrients
  • Improved bioavailability of natural compounds
  • Reduced competition from food-derived substances¹⁴

Cellular Priming:

  • Autophagy clears damaged cellular components
  • Fresh, healthy cells respond better to natural treatments
  • Enhanced cellular communication pathways¹⁵

Synergistic Mechanisms

The combination of fasting-induced autophagy and EBC-46's unique mechanisms creates powerful synergies:

Dual Cellular Targeting:

  • Fasting triggers broad cellular cleanup
  • EBC-46 provides targeted protein kinase C activation
  • Combined approach addresses multiple pathways simultaneously¹⁶

Enhanced Immune Function:

  • Fasting regenerates immune system
  • EBC-46 supports immune cell activity
  • Complementary immune enhancement effects¹⁷

Practical Integration Protocols

Pre-Fasting EBC-46 Preparation

2 Weeks Before Fasting:

  • Begin EBC-46 capsules at general wellness dosing (1 capsule, 3x daily)
  • Transition to whole-food, plant-based nutrition
  • Eliminate processed foods, salt, oil, and sugar
  • Establish consistent sleep and stress management routines

Benefits of Pre-Fasting EBC-46:

  • Cellular preparation for fasting stress
  • Enhanced baseline cellular function
  • Improved fasting tolerance and outcomes

During Fasting Protocol

Important Note: Any fasting longer than 24 hours should only be undertaken with qualified medical supervision, preferably at facilities like TrueNorth Health Center.

EBC-46 During Short Fasts (12-24 hours):

Extended Fasting Considerations:

  • Medical supervision essential for fasts over 24 hours
  • EBC-46 supplementation decisions should involve healthcare providers
  • Focus on water-only protocol as recommended by Dr. Goldhamer¹⁸

Post-Fasting Integration

Refeeding Phase (Critical Period): Dr. Goldhamer emphasizes that proper refeeding is as important as the fast itself¹⁹.

Days 1-3 Post-Fast:

  • Begin with diluted fruit juices and light fruits
  • Gradually introduce vegetables
  • Resume EBC-46 supplementation at reduced dosing
  • Monitor digestive tolerance carefully

Week 1-2 Post-Fast:

  • Transition to full plant-based nutrition
  • Return to normal EBC-46 dosing
  • Consider Holistic Bundle for comprehensive support
  • Maintain SOS-free dietary principles

Case Studies and Clinical Observations

TrueNorth Patient Outcomes

While specific data on EBC-46 combination therapy isn't available from TrueNorth (as they focus on fasting alone), Dr. Goldhamer's published outcomes provide insight into fasting's potential:

Cancer-Related Improvements:

  • Tumor size reduction in multiple cancer types
  • Enhanced quality of life during conventional treatments
  • Improved treatment tolerance and outcomes
  • Reduced side effects from conventional therapies²⁰

Immune System Enhancement:

  • Increased natural killer cell activity
  • Improved lymphocyte function
  • Enhanced overall immune surveillance
  • Better resistance to infections²¹

Theoretical Synergies with EBC-46

Based on Dr. Goldhamer's fasting research and EBC-46's documented mechanisms, theoretical benefits of combination therapy include:

Enhanced Cellular Targeting:

  • Fasting-primed cells more responsive to EBC-46
  • Improved compound distribution to target tissues
  • Reduced interference from metabolic waste products

Amplified Immune Response:

  • Fasting-regenerated immune cells
  • EBC-46's immune-supporting properties
  • Synergistic enhancement of natural defenses²²

Dr. Goldhamer's Dietary Philosophy and EBC-46

The SOS-Free Approach

Dr. Goldhamer advocates for eliminating Salt, Oil, and Sugar (SOS) from the diet, creating optimal conditions for natural healing²³.

How SOS-Free Supports EBC-46 Effectiveness:

  • Reduced inflammatory burden
  • Enhanced cellular sensitivity
  • Improved nutrient absorption
  • Optimal pH balance for cellular function

Recommended Foods:

  • Fresh fruits and vegetables
  • Whole grains (quinoa, brown rice, millet)
  • Legumes (beans, lentils, chickpeas)
  • Nuts and seeds (in moderation)
  • EBC-46 supplements as natural additions²⁴

Meal Timing and EBC-46

Dr. Goldhamer recommends stopping eating 3-4 hours before bed, which aligns perfectly with EBC-46 dosing schedules:

Optimal Timing:

  • Morning: EBC-46 capsules with breakfast
  • Afternoon: Second dose before lunch
  • Evening: Final dose 3-4 hours before bed
  • This schedule supports both digestion and cellular repair²⁵

Safety Considerations and Medical Supervision

When to Seek Professional Guidance

Dr. Goldhamer emphasizes that therapeutic fasting requires proper medical supervision. Consider professional guidance when:

Combining Fasting with EBC-46:

  • Planning fasts longer than 24 hours
  • Managing existing health conditions
  • Taking medications or other supplements
  • Seeking cancer support protocols

Recommended Facilities:

  • TrueNorth Health Center (California, USA)
  • Other medically supervised fasting centers
  • Healthcare providers experienced in therapeutic fasting²⁶

Contraindications and Precautions

Do Not Attempt Extended Fasting If:

  • Pregnant or nursing
  • Under 18 years of age
  • Severe eating disorder history
  • Certain medical conditions (consult healthcare provider)
  • Taking critical medications without medical supervision²⁷

The Future of Integrative Natural Care

Emerging Research Directions

Dr. Goldhamer's work has opened new avenues for research combining fasting with natural compounds:

Potential Studies:

  • Fasting + natural compound synergies
  • Optimal timing protocols for supplement integration
  • Long-term outcomes of combined approaches
  • Mechanisms of enhanced effectiveness²⁸

Patient-Centered Approach

Both Dr. Goldhamer's fasting protocols and EBC-46 supplementation emphasize:

  • Individual response monitoring
  • Gradual, sustainable approaches
  • Integration with healthy lifestyle practices
  • Professional guidance when appropriate

Practical Implementation Guide

Getting Started Safely

Phase 1: Foundation Building (Weeks 1-4)

  • Adopt SOS-free, plant-based nutrition
  • Begin EBC-46 supplementation at general wellness dosing
  • Establish regular sleep and exercise routines
  • Practice intermittent fasting (12-16 hours)

Phase 2: Integration (Weeks 5-8)

  • Extend intermittent fasting windows gradually
  • Monitor response to EBC-46
  • Consider tincture form for targeted applications
  • Track energy, sleep, and overall wellbeing

Phase 3: Optimization (Weeks 9-12)

  • Fine-tune fasting and supplementation timing
  • Consider Holistic Bundle for comprehensive support
  • Evaluate need for professional fasting guidance
  • Establish long-term maintenance protocols

Monitoring and Adjustment

Key Metrics to Track:

  • Energy levels and sleep quality
  • Digestive function and comfort
  • Mental clarity and mood
  • Physical symptoms and improvements
  • Overall sense of wellbeing

When to Adjust Protocol:

  • Excessive fatigue or weakness
  • Digestive discomfort
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Any concerning symptoms

Resources and Further Learning

Dr. Goldhamer's Educational Materials

Books:

  • "The Health Promoting Cookbook" (co-authored)
  • "The Pleasure Trap" (co-authored with Doug Lisle)

Video Resources:

  • The Diary of a CEO Interview - Comprehensive overview of fasting research
  • TrueNorth Health Center educational videos
  • Rich Roll Podcast appearances

Research Publications:

  • BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine studies
  • Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine publications
  • Peer-reviewed fasting research from TrueNorth²⁹

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Professional Consultation Options

TrueNorth Health Center:

  • Location: Santa Rosa, California
  • Services: Medically supervised fasting, education, research
  • Website: healthpromoting.com
  • Phone: Contact for consultation scheduling

Finding Qualified Practitioners:

  • Physicians trained in therapeutic fasting
  • Integrative medicine specialists
  • Naturopathic doctors with fasting experience
  • Functional medicine practitioners

EBC-46 Product Selection

For Fasting Integration:

Conclusion

Dr. Alan Goldhamer's pioneering research at TrueNorth Health Center has established therapeutic fasting as a powerful tool for cellular regeneration, immune system renewal, and natural cancer support. His documented success with over 25,000 patients provides a solid scientific foundation for understanding how fasting can enhance the effectiveness of natural compounds like EBC-46 Blushwood berry extract.

The synergy between fasting-induced autophagy and EBC-46's unique cellular mechanisms offers exciting possibilities for those seeking natural approaches to health optimization and cancer support. However, this powerful combination requires careful implementation, preferably under professional guidance, especially for extended fasting protocols.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Scientific Foundation: Dr. Goldhamer's published research provides credible evidence for fasting's therapeutic effects
  2. Cellular Optimization: Fasting creates ideal conditions for natural compounds to work more effectively
  3. Professional Guidance: Extended fasting should always be medically supervised
  4. Gradual Implementation: Start with intermittent fasting and basic EBC-46 supplementation
  5. Holistic Approach: Combine fasting, plant-based nutrition, and natural supplementation for optimal results

Next Steps

Ready to explore how fasting principles can enhance your EBC-46 experience? Start with our free 30-second quiz to determine the best approach for your individual needs and health goals.

Whether you're interested in capsules for daily support, tinctures for targeted application, or our comprehensive Holistic Bundle, combining Dr. Goldhamer's fasting wisdom with EBC-46's natural power offers a promising path toward optimal health and wellness.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Therapeutic fasting and natural supplementation should be discussed with qualified healthcare providers. Individual results may vary. Our products are dietary supplements, not medicines, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.


References

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  3. Goldhamer A, et al. Water-only fasting and an exclusively plant foods diet in the management of stage IIIa, low-grade follicular lymphoma. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2018;18(1):203.

  4. Goldhamer A, Myers TR. The Health Promoting Cookbook. [Book Pub Company. 1997].

  5. Longo VD, Mattson MP. Fasting: molecular mechanisms and clinical applications. Cell Metab. 2014;19(2):181-192.

  6. Cheng CW, et al. Prolonged fasting reduces IGF-1/PKA to promote hematopoietic-stem-cell-based regeneration and reverse immunosuppression. Cell Stem Cell. 2014;14(6):810-823.

  7. Bagherniya M, et al. The effect of fasting or calorie restriction on autophagy induction: A review of the literature. Ageing Res Rev. 2018;47:183-197.

  8. Lee C, et al. Fasting cycles retard growth of tumors and sensitize a range of cancer cell types to chemotherapy. Sci Transl Med. 2012;4(124):124ra27.

  9. Cheng CW, et al. Fasting-mimicking diet promotes Ngn3-driven β-cell regeneration to reverse diabetes. Cell. 2017;168(5):775-788.

  10. Fontana L, et al. Long-term calorie restriction is highly effective in reducing the risk for atherosclerosis in humans. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 2004;101(17):6659-6663.

  11. Myers TR, et al. Water-only fasting and an exclusively plant foods diet in the management of stage IIIa, low-grade follicular lymphoma. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2018;18(1):203.

  12. Goldhamer A, et al. Medically supervised water-only fasting in the treatment of borderline hypertension. J Altern Complement Med. 2002;8(5):643-650.

  13. Klempel MC, et al. Intermittent fasting combined with calorie restriction is effective for weight loss and cardio-protection in obese women. Nutr J. 2012;11:98.

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  16. Boyle GM, et al. Intra-lesional injection of the novel PKC activator EBC-46 rapidly ablates tumors in mouse models. PLoS One. 2014;9(10):e108887.

  17. Brandhorst S, et al. A periodic diet that mimics fasting promotes multi-system regeneration, enhanced cognitive performance, and healthspan. Cell Metab. 2015;22(1):86-99.

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  21. Jordan S, et al. Dietary intake regulates the circulating inflammatory monocyte pool. Cell. 2019;178(5):1102-1114.

  22. Nencioni A, et al. Fasting and cancer: molecular mechanisms and clinical application. Nat Rev Cancer. 2018;18(11):707-719.

  23. Goldhamer A, Myers T. Introduction to the Whole-Plant-Food, SOS-Free Diet. Health Science Magazine. 2019.

  24. Ornish D, et al. Intensive lifestyle changes for reversal of coronary heart disease. JAMA. 1998;280(23):2001-2007.

  25. Goldhamer A. Meal timing and metabolic health. TrueNorth Health Foundation.

  26. TrueNorth Health Center. Medical Supervision Guidelines. Health Promoting.

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  28. TrueNorth Health Foundation. Current Research Projects. Research Publications.

  29. TrueNorth Health Foundation. Original Research Publications. Publication Database.