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The Survival Paradox: Reversing the Hidden Cause of Aging and Chronic Disease
Cancer. Organ failure. Accelerated aging. Can a single "survival molecule" fuel our most deadly and devastating health concerns? The truth is, the very biochemical mechanisms the body uses to survive are actually making us sick.
This is the survival paradox.
When our body's survival response is triggered, there is a pain, inflammation, and life-threatening disease. But there is a way to overcome it.
Drawing on inspirational healing stories and cutting-edge research, integrative medicine expert Dr. Isaac Eliaz presents a roadmap to master your biochemistry and overcome this paradox. The result? Healing and transformation on every physical, mental, and emotional.
The Survival Paradox offers a groundbreaking new perspective in medicine—and the key to unlocking your infinite healing potential.
This is the survival paradox.
When our body's survival response is triggered, there is a pain, inflammation, and life-threatening disease. But there is a way to overcome it.
Drawing on inspirational healing stories and cutting-edge research, integrative medicine expert Dr. Isaac Eliaz presents a roadmap to master your biochemistry and overcome this paradox. The result? Healing and transformation on every physical, mental, and emotional.
The Survival Paradox offers a groundbreaking new perspective in medicine—and the key to unlocking your infinite healing potential.
307 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 21, 2021
120 people are currently reading
669 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
July 13, 2023
Best book on holistic living and healing that I’ve read in the past 10+ years. As a sepsis and cancer survivor, back to back, I know that I survived both from my holistic living for most of my adult life. This book taught me a lot.
August 29, 2024
So much good information! Especially for my current health conditions.
“when facing a life-threatening or debilitating illness, the natural biochemical stress response, our innate fight-or-flight mechanisms that are driven by our instinct to survive are fundamentally at odds with our ability to heal and thrive. This survival drive, rooted in our sympathetic nervous system, and expressed by our biochemical alert system, is not going to save us. in fact, it can harm us.” Pg. 12
“Our survival protein, galectin-3, is activated when we experience a sudden threat, be at physical, emotional, mental, or psychological. It’s also activated in cases of injury, infection, cancer, or other illnesses.” Pg. 19
"The continual barrage of stimuli from every direction, the onslaught of environmental toxins, the ongoing mental, physical, and emotion stress we've grown accustomed to - these disturbances throw us into survival mode where our systems are on constant high alert, like an alarm that never turns off. The result? Unhealthy galectin-3 expression, and with it, progressive damage to vital organs and systems over the long-term. This, in tern, fuels more galectin-3 production, forming a perpetually closed loop system that is proving to be perhaps the single greatest threat to our health and longevity. pg. 20
“ You can imagine that on a psychological level, we go through a similar process, burying emotions and traumas that are too difficult for us to deal with. Even if these traumas are not at the surface of our awareness or consciousness, they can still have a psychological and physiological effect on us. You might have had an experience while going through a detox process where any emotion or memory surfaces all of a sudden. Where was this emotion all the time? It was likely buried in a microenvironment that was not accessible to us. As we open or reveal our psychological microenvironments and release toxins, we can also open physiological microenvironments, releasing buried emotions.” Pg. 22
Recall from our previous discussion, that when Cell goes into survival mode, it switches its energy production system to anaerobic glycolysis, which produces energy much faster but creates lactic acid in the process. This can include hypoxia, produce, inflammation, create damaging, free radicals, and result in oxidative stress, a condition in which the body is unable to rid itself of these free radicals. This fight-or- flight response and its proinflammatory by-products eventually damage the cell and its environment. A damaged cell can start to behave as though it’s being threatened, and it will refuse to die and allow a new cell to take its place. It will start to duplicate uncontrollably as part of its survival response. This is where conditions like cancer can begin. Pg. 42
Because of its ability to block galectin-3, MCP benefits multiple systems throughout the body. When it comes to the metabolic system, it can improve insulin resistance, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and obesity. MCP also works as an antioxidant and promotes mitochondrial health. By reducing inflammation and fibrosis, it inhibits the driving force for auto immune and degenerative diseases. Pg. 53
LIVER: “ As our “past and future“ organ, liver is responsible for countless enzymatic and chemical processes. It helps us process toxins from the past by promoting and regulating the detoxification process, and helps prepare us for functioning in the future, by producing different lipids, hormones, and enzymes. When the liver produces new proteins and enzymes, it affects our future physiology. At the same time, the liver helps to clear our past by breaking down and getting rid of byproducts from past reactions. As such, the liver is also our big detoxifier. The liver deals with the bodies past and future, simultaneously taking care of both in the present. so, if the liver is not functioning, smoothly, if it gets stuck, then we will have a problem dealing with the past and having clarity about the future - both physically and physiologically. We will become toxic. This naturally leads to frustration and anger, which, according to multiple ancient medical systems, are the dominant emotions associated with the liver. Pg. 114
We need to support and facilitate circulation through exercise and deep breathing, and support the Microbiome through the use of prebiotics (nondigestible fiber that ferment and feeds gut bacteria) and probiotics (live beneficial bacteria). (on this topic, MCP is also an established prebiotic, with a number of scientific papers having been published on its benefits in that role.) Pg. 118
There’s another important reason galectin-3 blackhead is emerging as a possible strategy against COVID-19: the potential to prevent viral infection in healthy cells. The SARS-CoV-2 virus enters and infects healthy cells by using a unique spike protein that attaches to healthy cell receptors. Researchers discovered that the shape of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein is nearly identical to the galectin-3 binding terminal-making the case that galectin-3 blockers could also block the virus from entering and infecting healthy cells. Pg. 119
I usually advise my patients to combine MCP with medicinal mushrooms for synergistic digestive immune support. Medicinal mushrooms act as a powerful prebiotic, because they contain a mixture of different oligosaccharides. Pg. 151
The nervous system can be affected by acute factors, such as infections, generalized inflammation, or exposure to toxins, which creates chronic responses similar to that of neurodegenerative diseases. Temporary, inflammatory immune response in the brain affects the CNS and can cause neurological disorders. it is upmost importance to treat and heal these to prevent long-term damage. (once an infection goes to the brain, it can cause short or long-term damage, with examples being Borrelia in Lyme disease, Babesia in babesiosis, and other parasitic, fungal, or bacterial infections.) although the initial immune response to infections is acute, it is not uncommon to see the immune response, becoming chronic, and the chronic response in turn produces symptoms that are similar to that of a neurodegenerative disease. Pg. 138
Imbalance of the Microbiome chapter: When the Microbiome is out of balance, and we harbor bacteria, that aren’t supposed to be there, these agents start to overgrow. They not only affect the digestive system, but the whole body, and more specifically the nervous system. a babies got is sterile at birth, but genetic tendencies are present, and the newborn gut is populated with microorganisms within hours. When babies are delivered vaginally, they are exposed to natural bacteria in the birth canal. Vaginal and intestinal flora are very similar, so vaginal delivery can be a valuable first step to gut health.
When the Microbiome senses, a crisis, like an infection, or receives a message that something is wrong, galectin-3 is mobilized very quickly. Galectin-3 is used by our body within the Microbiome boundaries to protect against infection, but this can result in an uncontrolled immune response, and inflammation. We end up with chronic inflammation and damage, which can create an imbalance that allows bacteria that are not part of the natural gut community to grow stronger. Research shows that galectin-3 helps pathogenic bacteria, survive, and adhere to the gut lining, allowing harmful molecules to flourish, and penetrate into the body, bloodstream, and lymphatic system. This creates abnormal reactions, autoimmune disease, neurodegenerative, and neuroinflammatory disease, and can even lead to sepsis.
Dysbiosis is an imbalance between different microorganisms within our microbiome. This imbalance can be a result of a deficiency in our microbial flora, lack of variety in the healthy flora, or the establishment of microbial pathogens and opportunistic bacteria. Unhealthy bacterial byproducts can damage the thin lining of the intestinal mucosa and adversely affect our well-being. The use of antibiotics, stress, eating an unhealthy diet, exposure to pesticides (especially glyphosate), and the makeup of our personal intestinal microflora have been found to contribute to intestinal dysbiosis. These factors are influenced by our modern western lifestyle. Dysbiosis disrupts, energy, balance, and immune reactions, contributing to damage to the mucosal lining, and resulting in condition often known as “leaky gut.” This loss of intestinal barrier integrity allows the migration of undigested food particles and microbial by-products into the systemic immune response. Intestinal dysbiosis is associated with irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative, colitis, small, intestinal, bacterial, overgrowth, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, and even autism spectrum disorder. Auto immune diseases can begin in different parts of the body, such as the skin, muscles, joints, gut, or thyroid. Two common autoimmune diseases affect the digestive tract: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. In these conditions, inflammation changes, the gut lining and expands the space between its cells. This allows antigens (foreign molecules or compounds) to penetrate through the gut and into the circulation, resulting in an inflammatory immune response. This is part of leaky gut syndrome, when bacteria and toxins “ leak” through the intestinal wall. The leak can happen when tight junctions in the gut lining don’t work correctly and allow substances to enter the bloodstream. This leaking creates an antigen-driven immune response, systemic, inflammation, and disrupts our metabolic functions. The consequences can also lead to obesity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease. There is an amazing link between our gut and the rest of our body, and if cells truly feel safe and relaxed, they will thrive, along with everything else around them.
Detox: from a psychological perspective, this means that something buried or hidden in our subconscious can come to our awareness or consciousness. An example would be hidden traumas coming to light. When we bury our traumas, we psychologically deposit such issues in the most inner tissue of the body: fatty tissue. If you’ve ever followed a detox regimen, you may have experienced a reduction in fat storage, as well as a release of memories and emotions you weren’t aware you had been caring. A similar process takes place when the body sequesters, pesticides, heavy metals, and toxins. This is why we often find toxins and heavy metals in fatty tissue. During the detox process, these can be released as well. the toxins released by a breakdown of fatty tissue during detoxification will enter the circulation. This means they can end up in different places in the body with the potential to cause damage. How do we get rid of these damaging byproducts? Through healthy elimination. The process of taking exposed toxins and excreting them outside of the body. Elimination takes place through the stools, urine, skin, and breath. If there’s an imbalance, and we have excessive discharge with insufficient elimination, it will result in symptoms on all levels - physical, emotional and psychological. This is why authentic and complete “ letting go,” which characterizes the full process of discharge and elimination, is so important. Refusing to let go is the hallmark of survival (and the survival urge will drive and activate galectin-3).
IF gives your digestion and metabolism, a chance to rest, which is especially important when we sleep, because the rest helps to optimize repair process. Prolonged fasting is also shown to trigger favorable changes in gene expression and cell, signaling, activating certain genes that promote longevity and limit age related deterioration on a number of levels.
The body naturally seeks harmony. … the human body knows how to survive - and needs this useful response - But we must not forsake harmony in the process. Harmony is so essential to our existence that it is even possible to understand the survival response in these terms. For what is the survival response other than an effort to regain harmony in the aftermath of imbalance! Unfortunately, the effects of the survival response - especially when it doesn’t turn off - create other imbalances. Then the body responds to these new imbalances, creating more effect to which we respond - again and again. Pg. 212
“when facing a life-threatening or debilitating illness, the natural biochemical stress response, our innate fight-or-flight mechanisms that are driven by our instinct to survive are fundamentally at odds with our ability to heal and thrive. This survival drive, rooted in our sympathetic nervous system, and expressed by our biochemical alert system, is not going to save us. in fact, it can harm us.” Pg. 12
“Our survival protein, galectin-3, is activated when we experience a sudden threat, be at physical, emotional, mental, or psychological. It’s also activated in cases of injury, infection, cancer, or other illnesses.” Pg. 19
"The continual barrage of stimuli from every direction, the onslaught of environmental toxins, the ongoing mental, physical, and emotion stress we've grown accustomed to - these disturbances throw us into survival mode where our systems are on constant high alert, like an alarm that never turns off. The result? Unhealthy galectin-3 expression, and with it, progressive damage to vital organs and systems over the long-term. This, in tern, fuels more galectin-3 production, forming a perpetually closed loop system that is proving to be perhaps the single greatest threat to our health and longevity. pg. 20
“ You can imagine that on a psychological level, we go through a similar process, burying emotions and traumas that are too difficult for us to deal with. Even if these traumas are not at the surface of our awareness or consciousness, they can still have a psychological and physiological effect on us. You might have had an experience while going through a detox process where any emotion or memory surfaces all of a sudden. Where was this emotion all the time? It was likely buried in a microenvironment that was not accessible to us. As we open or reveal our psychological microenvironments and release toxins, we can also open physiological microenvironments, releasing buried emotions.” Pg. 22
Recall from our previous discussion, that when Cell goes into survival mode, it switches its energy production system to anaerobic glycolysis, which produces energy much faster but creates lactic acid in the process. This can include hypoxia, produce, inflammation, create damaging, free radicals, and result in oxidative stress, a condition in which the body is unable to rid itself of these free radicals. This fight-or- flight response and its proinflammatory by-products eventually damage the cell and its environment. A damaged cell can start to behave as though it’s being threatened, and it will refuse to die and allow a new cell to take its place. It will start to duplicate uncontrollably as part of its survival response. This is where conditions like cancer can begin. Pg. 42
Because of its ability to block galectin-3, MCP benefits multiple systems throughout the body. When it comes to the metabolic system, it can improve insulin resistance, diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and obesity. MCP also works as an antioxidant and promotes mitochondrial health. By reducing inflammation and fibrosis, it inhibits the driving force for auto immune and degenerative diseases. Pg. 53
LIVER: “ As our “past and future“ organ, liver is responsible for countless enzymatic and chemical processes. It helps us process toxins from the past by promoting and regulating the detoxification process, and helps prepare us for functioning in the future, by producing different lipids, hormones, and enzymes. When the liver produces new proteins and enzymes, it affects our future physiology. At the same time, the liver helps to clear our past by breaking down and getting rid of byproducts from past reactions. As such, the liver is also our big detoxifier. The liver deals with the bodies past and future, simultaneously taking care of both in the present. so, if the liver is not functioning, smoothly, if it gets stuck, then we will have a problem dealing with the past and having clarity about the future - both physically and physiologically. We will become toxic. This naturally leads to frustration and anger, which, according to multiple ancient medical systems, are the dominant emotions associated with the liver. Pg. 114
We need to support and facilitate circulation through exercise and deep breathing, and support the Microbiome through the use of prebiotics (nondigestible fiber that ferment and feeds gut bacteria) and probiotics (live beneficial bacteria). (on this topic, MCP is also an established prebiotic, with a number of scientific papers having been published on its benefits in that role.) Pg. 118
There’s another important reason galectin-3 blackhead is emerging as a possible strategy against COVID-19: the potential to prevent viral infection in healthy cells. The SARS-CoV-2 virus enters and infects healthy cells by using a unique spike protein that attaches to healthy cell receptors. Researchers discovered that the shape of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein is nearly identical to the galectin-3 binding terminal-making the case that galectin-3 blockers could also block the virus from entering and infecting healthy cells. Pg. 119
I usually advise my patients to combine MCP with medicinal mushrooms for synergistic digestive immune support. Medicinal mushrooms act as a powerful prebiotic, because they contain a mixture of different oligosaccharides. Pg. 151
The nervous system can be affected by acute factors, such as infections, generalized inflammation, or exposure to toxins, which creates chronic responses similar to that of neurodegenerative diseases. Temporary, inflammatory immune response in the brain affects the CNS and can cause neurological disorders. it is upmost importance to treat and heal these to prevent long-term damage. (once an infection goes to the brain, it can cause short or long-term damage, with examples being Borrelia in Lyme disease, Babesia in babesiosis, and other parasitic, fungal, or bacterial infections.) although the initial immune response to infections is acute, it is not uncommon to see the immune response, becoming chronic, and the chronic response in turn produces symptoms that are similar to that of a neurodegenerative disease. Pg. 138
Imbalance of the Microbiome chapter: When the Microbiome is out of balance, and we harbor bacteria, that aren’t supposed to be there, these agents start to overgrow. They not only affect the digestive system, but the whole body, and more specifically the nervous system. a babies got is sterile at birth, but genetic tendencies are present, and the newborn gut is populated with microorganisms within hours. When babies are delivered vaginally, they are exposed to natural bacteria in the birth canal. Vaginal and intestinal flora are very similar, so vaginal delivery can be a valuable first step to gut health.
When the Microbiome senses, a crisis, like an infection, or receives a message that something is wrong, galectin-3 is mobilized very quickly. Galectin-3 is used by our body within the Microbiome boundaries to protect against infection, but this can result in an uncontrolled immune response, and inflammation. We end up with chronic inflammation and damage, which can create an imbalance that allows bacteria that are not part of the natural gut community to grow stronger. Research shows that galectin-3 helps pathogenic bacteria, survive, and adhere to the gut lining, allowing harmful molecules to flourish, and penetrate into the body, bloodstream, and lymphatic system. This creates abnormal reactions, autoimmune disease, neurodegenerative, and neuroinflammatory disease, and can even lead to sepsis.
Dysbiosis is an imbalance between different microorganisms within our microbiome. This imbalance can be a result of a deficiency in our microbial flora, lack of variety in the healthy flora, or the establishment of microbial pathogens and opportunistic bacteria. Unhealthy bacterial byproducts can damage the thin lining of the intestinal mucosa and adversely affect our well-being. The use of antibiotics, stress, eating an unhealthy diet, exposure to pesticides (especially glyphosate), and the makeup of our personal intestinal microflora have been found to contribute to intestinal dysbiosis. These factors are influenced by our modern western lifestyle. Dysbiosis disrupts, energy, balance, and immune reactions, contributing to damage to the mucosal lining, and resulting in condition often known as “leaky gut.” This loss of intestinal barrier integrity allows the migration of undigested food particles and microbial by-products into the systemic immune response. Intestinal dysbiosis is associated with irritable bowel syndrome, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative, colitis, small, intestinal, bacterial, overgrowth, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, and even autism spectrum disorder. Auto immune diseases can begin in different parts of the body, such as the skin, muscles, joints, gut, or thyroid. Two common autoimmune diseases affect the digestive tract: Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. In these conditions, inflammation changes, the gut lining and expands the space between its cells. This allows antigens (foreign molecules or compounds) to penetrate through the gut and into the circulation, resulting in an inflammatory immune response. This is part of leaky gut syndrome, when bacteria and toxins “ leak” through the intestinal wall. The leak can happen when tight junctions in the gut lining don’t work correctly and allow substances to enter the bloodstream. This leaking creates an antigen-driven immune response, systemic, inflammation, and disrupts our metabolic functions. The consequences can also lead to obesity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease. There is an amazing link between our gut and the rest of our body, and if cells truly feel safe and relaxed, they will thrive, along with everything else around them.
Detox: from a psychological perspective, this means that something buried or hidden in our subconscious can come to our awareness or consciousness. An example would be hidden traumas coming to light. When we bury our traumas, we psychologically deposit such issues in the most inner tissue of the body: fatty tissue. If you’ve ever followed a detox regimen, you may have experienced a reduction in fat storage, as well as a release of memories and emotions you weren’t aware you had been caring. A similar process takes place when the body sequesters, pesticides, heavy metals, and toxins. This is why we often find toxins and heavy metals in fatty tissue. During the detox process, these can be released as well. the toxins released by a breakdown of fatty tissue during detoxification will enter the circulation. This means they can end up in different places in the body with the potential to cause damage. How do we get rid of these damaging byproducts? Through healthy elimination. The process of taking exposed toxins and excreting them outside of the body. Elimination takes place through the stools, urine, skin, and breath. If there’s an imbalance, and we have excessive discharge with insufficient elimination, it will result in symptoms on all levels - physical, emotional and psychological. This is why authentic and complete “ letting go,” which characterizes the full process of discharge and elimination, is so important. Refusing to let go is the hallmark of survival (and the survival urge will drive and activate galectin-3).
IF gives your digestion and metabolism, a chance to rest, which is especially important when we sleep, because the rest helps to optimize repair process. Prolonged fasting is also shown to trigger favorable changes in gene expression and cell, signaling, activating certain genes that promote longevity and limit age related deterioration on a number of levels.
The body naturally seeks harmony. … the human body knows how to survive - and needs this useful response - But we must not forsake harmony in the process. Harmony is so essential to our existence that it is even possible to understand the survival response in these terms. For what is the survival response other than an effort to regain harmony in the aftermath of imbalance! Unfortunately, the effects of the survival response - especially when it doesn’t turn off - create other imbalances. Then the body responds to these new imbalances, creating more effect to which we respond - again and again. Pg. 212
May 31, 2025
A wonderful book about the essence of illness and healing. The paradox is that the defence mechanism of our bodies that ensures our survival, if turned chronic, can create a range of illnesses. By isolating a group of cells and disconnecting them from their wider environment, it creates inflammation.
The author emphasises the interconnectedness between the cells, our body as a whole, our community and environment, as well as the wider universe. For instance, he points to global warming as a macro inflammatory symptom not unlike the degenerative processes in the body.
Even though the book discusses human biology and a range of dependencies, the language, examples and stories are easy to understand for an average, non-technical reader.
The author emphasises the interconnectedness between the cells, our body as a whole, our community and environment, as well as the wider universe. For instance, he points to global warming as a macro inflammatory symptom not unlike the degenerative processes in the body.
Even though the book discusses human biology and a range of dependencies, the language, examples and stories are easy to understand for an average, non-technical reader.
November 1, 2023
Discover how to unleash your body's natural healing abilities through a transformed survival response, gaining insights and techniques for vibrant health.
To achieve optimal health, we must tap into our body’s natural healing power, waiting to be unleashed. This transformation begins with a shift in our survival response, making it work for us rather than against us. Isaac Eliaz, a leader in integrative medicine, shares these insights in The Survival Paradox, guiding readers to unlock boundless healing potential.
In this review, we explore how Dr. Eliaz addresses this vital topic, offering a comprehensive guide to holistic mind-body healing. We will uncover core concepts and key takeaways, empowering you to understand and unlock your body’s innate healing potential for lasting well-being.
Author’s background
Isaac Eliaz, MD, MS, LAc, is a pioneering figure in integrative medicine, focusing on cancer, immune health, detoxification, and mind-body medicine.
He is a respected clinician, researcher, and author with a unique holistic approach informed by Western and Eastern medicine. Dr. Eliaz founded the Amitabha Medical Clinic and Amitabha Wellness Foundation in Santa Rosa, California. He collaborates with research institutes, publishes peer-reviewed papers, and lectures internationally on integrative therapies. Additionally, he is a devoted practitioner of meditation and offers retreats for patients and practitioners worldwide.
What is the book about?
The Survival Paradox by Isaac Eliaz is a comprehensive exploration of holistic mind-body healing, offering profound insights into health, disease, longevity, and quality of life. Divided into several parts, the book covers the following topics:
• The concept of the survival paradox.
• What is ‘master protein,’ why is it responsible for most survival responses and how can it be controlled?
• Effects of the survival paradox on various conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, and cancer.
• Methods to transform the survival response, release unhealthy fixations, and shift from struggle to harmony.
Three key takeaways from The Survival Paradox
1. By shifting from survival to relaxation mode, we can facilitate the body’s innate ability to heal itself
The concept of survival paradox refers to the physiological and biochemical response of the body when faced with stress, illness, or injury. This response, driven by a master protein that dictates our biochemical and physiological reactions, is initially aimed at self-preservation but can paradoxically lead to inflammation, fibrosis, and degeneration, hindering the body’s innate capacity to heal itself.
Addressing the survival paradox involves a profound shift from a constant state of survival mode to one of relaxation, both at the cellular and psychological levels. Creating a sense of safety and balance is essential for this transformation, as it cascades down to the cellular level, allowing cells to function optimally. Techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, acupuncture, and various healing modalities play a pivotal role in calming the survival paradox response and promoting relaxation. It is crucial to understand that this transformation goes beyond positive thinking; it entails changing our biochemical responses and dismantling physical barriers to healing.
2. Inhibiting the detrimental effects of galectin-3 is a pivotal aspect of disease management
According to The Survival Paradox, galectin-3, a protein produced when the body perceives a threat or is in a state of stress or disease, can have both beneficial and harmful effects. When it is activated in cases of injury, infection, cancer, or other illnesses, it can turn on pathways that initiate inflammation and fibrosis, leading to the hardening and dysfunction of tissues and organ systems. Galectin-3 can also overexpress itself in specific areas of the body, such as the joints, cardiovascular system, or the brain, and exert different effects based on what it is bound to.
Blocking unhealthy expression of galectin-3 can be an important therapeutic strategy for treating a variety of conditions. When galectin-3 is blocked from binding, lattice formations can be broken up, and isolated pockets and areas of the body, including tumour microenvironments, can be reached. This can lead to the normalisation of abnormal tissues and cells, even tumorous cancer cells, and decrease unhealthy inflammation in the process.
It is important to note that galectin-3 can cause damage even at low levels, so addressing galectin-3 is important regardless of its levels. The connection between emotions and health is also highlighted, as stress and anxiety can worsen the effects of galectin-3.
3. Healing traumas can optimise recovery from chronic illness
The Survival Paradox goes beyond the traditional approaches to cancer treatment by delving into the roots of the disease. Understanding that different factors, including genetic influences, epigenetic factors, and life events, can trigger the survival response, the book emphasises the importance of exploring patients’ unique stories and traumas as part of the healing process.
The author employs a compassionate and holistic approach to help patients uncover their hidden stories, offering them the opportunity to transform their traumatic patterns that triggered the survival response. By recognising pivotal moments in a patient’s life where they felt they could not take a deep breath, the author guides patients toward profound healing. This healing journey is supported by acupuncture, specific injections, guided visualisations, hands-on healing, and other complementary therapies.
The book presents the inspiring case of Mary, a woman diagnosed with a rare and challenging form of cancer. Through meditation and deep insight, the author discovered that a traumatic childhood event related to a beloved dog had profoundly affected Mary and contributed to her illness. By gently guiding Mary to explore this trauma, the author initiated a healing process that, alongside conventional care, led to remarkable success in her holistic treatment.
Strengths and weaknesses, according to readers’ reviews
Strengths:
• The author effectively emphasises the deep integration of our body systems and the interconnectedness of individuals within society, highlighting the importance of mental and emotional well-being alongside physical health.
• The author’s accessible writing style and lack of pushy assuredness make the book approachable and inviting, creating a sense that he has valuable knowledge to share rather than imposing beliefs.
Weaknesses:
• The book is criticised because it attributes all health issues to a single factor or solution, in this case, the management of galectin 3. The scepticism is compounded when such claims are linked to a product that the author sells, which may raise questions about credibility.
Best quotes from The Survival Paradox
“When galectin-3 activity continues uncontrollably, it effectively "goes rogue, driving inflammation and fibrosis rather than healing. This, in turn, can lead to numerous disease processes. What's more, pathogens such as different infectious agents and tumors can hijack galectin-3 and use it for their own survival. This is a key issue that can be treated strategically, and we'll further explore this concept throughout the next chapters.”
“Physical scars, negative emotions, psychological states, and how we respond to stress all have an influence on our levels of galectin-3 and can affect our longevity. We know that high levels of galectin-3 impact our mortality and shorten our lives, so if we can bring it down and create harmony in our bodies, that means that we can be healthier and live longer. Moving away from a state of chronic stress and survival and into one of well-being, spaciousness, and harmony makes this possible.”
“Andy overcame an incurable neurodegenerative disease while overcoming two cancers at the same time. Thirteen years after his first visit to the clinic, he died at the age of eighty-three, for reasons unrelated to Parkinson's or the cancers. He lived a full and happy life through the miracle of regeneration and healing. His story was so amazing that it was documented by an international television health program.”
Final takeaway
The Survival Paradox by Isaac Eliaz offers a profound and holistic perspective on health, disease, and healing. Dr. Eliaz’s unique approach, blending Western and Eastern medicine, delves into the interconnectedness of our physical and emotional well-being. The book provides valuable insights into transforming the body’s innate survival mode into a state of relaxation, enabling profound healing. Moreover, it sheds light on the pivotal role of inhibiting galectin-3 in disease management, highlighting its effects on various conditions and emphasising the significance of emotional well-being in the healing process.
The Survival Paradox is a must-read for individuals seeking to understand the intricate relationship between their survival responses, emotions, and overall health.
To achieve optimal health, we must tap into our body’s natural healing power, waiting to be unleashed. This transformation begins with a shift in our survival response, making it work for us rather than against us. Isaac Eliaz, a leader in integrative medicine, shares these insights in The Survival Paradox, guiding readers to unlock boundless healing potential.
In this review, we explore how Dr. Eliaz addresses this vital topic, offering a comprehensive guide to holistic mind-body healing. We will uncover core concepts and key takeaways, empowering you to understand and unlock your body’s innate healing potential for lasting well-being.
Author’s background
Isaac Eliaz, MD, MS, LAc, is a pioneering figure in integrative medicine, focusing on cancer, immune health, detoxification, and mind-body medicine.
He is a respected clinician, researcher, and author with a unique holistic approach informed by Western and Eastern medicine. Dr. Eliaz founded the Amitabha Medical Clinic and Amitabha Wellness Foundation in Santa Rosa, California. He collaborates with research institutes, publishes peer-reviewed papers, and lectures internationally on integrative therapies. Additionally, he is a devoted practitioner of meditation and offers retreats for patients and practitioners worldwide.
What is the book about?
The Survival Paradox by Isaac Eliaz is a comprehensive exploration of holistic mind-body healing, offering profound insights into health, disease, longevity, and quality of life. Divided into several parts, the book covers the following topics:
• The concept of the survival paradox.
• What is ‘master protein,’ why is it responsible for most survival responses and how can it be controlled?
• Effects of the survival paradox on various conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, and cancer.
• Methods to transform the survival response, release unhealthy fixations, and shift from struggle to harmony.
Three key takeaways from The Survival Paradox
1. By shifting from survival to relaxation mode, we can facilitate the body’s innate ability to heal itself
The concept of survival paradox refers to the physiological and biochemical response of the body when faced with stress, illness, or injury. This response, driven by a master protein that dictates our biochemical and physiological reactions, is initially aimed at self-preservation but can paradoxically lead to inflammation, fibrosis, and degeneration, hindering the body’s innate capacity to heal itself.
Addressing the survival paradox involves a profound shift from a constant state of survival mode to one of relaxation, both at the cellular and psychological levels. Creating a sense of safety and balance is essential for this transformation, as it cascades down to the cellular level, allowing cells to function optimally. Techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, acupuncture, and various healing modalities play a pivotal role in calming the survival paradox response and promoting relaxation. It is crucial to understand that this transformation goes beyond positive thinking; it entails changing our biochemical responses and dismantling physical barriers to healing.
2. Inhibiting the detrimental effects of galectin-3 is a pivotal aspect of disease management
According to The Survival Paradox, galectin-3, a protein produced when the body perceives a threat or is in a state of stress or disease, can have both beneficial and harmful effects. When it is activated in cases of injury, infection, cancer, or other illnesses, it can turn on pathways that initiate inflammation and fibrosis, leading to the hardening and dysfunction of tissues and organ systems. Galectin-3 can also overexpress itself in specific areas of the body, such as the joints, cardiovascular system, or the brain, and exert different effects based on what it is bound to.
Blocking unhealthy expression of galectin-3 can be an important therapeutic strategy for treating a variety of conditions. When galectin-3 is blocked from binding, lattice formations can be broken up, and isolated pockets and areas of the body, including tumour microenvironments, can be reached. This can lead to the normalisation of abnormal tissues and cells, even tumorous cancer cells, and decrease unhealthy inflammation in the process.
It is important to note that galectin-3 can cause damage even at low levels, so addressing galectin-3 is important regardless of its levels. The connection between emotions and health is also highlighted, as stress and anxiety can worsen the effects of galectin-3.
3. Healing traumas can optimise recovery from chronic illness
The Survival Paradox goes beyond the traditional approaches to cancer treatment by delving into the roots of the disease. Understanding that different factors, including genetic influences, epigenetic factors, and life events, can trigger the survival response, the book emphasises the importance of exploring patients’ unique stories and traumas as part of the healing process.
The author employs a compassionate and holistic approach to help patients uncover their hidden stories, offering them the opportunity to transform their traumatic patterns that triggered the survival response. By recognising pivotal moments in a patient’s life where they felt they could not take a deep breath, the author guides patients toward profound healing. This healing journey is supported by acupuncture, specific injections, guided visualisations, hands-on healing, and other complementary therapies.
The book presents the inspiring case of Mary, a woman diagnosed with a rare and challenging form of cancer. Through meditation and deep insight, the author discovered that a traumatic childhood event related to a beloved dog had profoundly affected Mary and contributed to her illness. By gently guiding Mary to explore this trauma, the author initiated a healing process that, alongside conventional care, led to remarkable success in her holistic treatment.
Strengths and weaknesses, according to readers’ reviews
Strengths:
• The author effectively emphasises the deep integration of our body systems and the interconnectedness of individuals within society, highlighting the importance of mental and emotional well-being alongside physical health.
• The author’s accessible writing style and lack of pushy assuredness make the book approachable and inviting, creating a sense that he has valuable knowledge to share rather than imposing beliefs.
Weaknesses:
• The book is criticised because it attributes all health issues to a single factor or solution, in this case, the management of galectin 3. The scepticism is compounded when such claims are linked to a product that the author sells, which may raise questions about credibility.
Best quotes from The Survival Paradox
“When galectin-3 activity continues uncontrollably, it effectively "goes rogue, driving inflammation and fibrosis rather than healing. This, in turn, can lead to numerous disease processes. What's more, pathogens such as different infectious agents and tumors can hijack galectin-3 and use it for their own survival. This is a key issue that can be treated strategically, and we'll further explore this concept throughout the next chapters.”
“Physical scars, negative emotions, psychological states, and how we respond to stress all have an influence on our levels of galectin-3 and can affect our longevity. We know that high levels of galectin-3 impact our mortality and shorten our lives, so if we can bring it down and create harmony in our bodies, that means that we can be healthier and live longer. Moving away from a state of chronic stress and survival and into one of well-being, spaciousness, and harmony makes this possible.”
“Andy overcame an incurable neurodegenerative disease while overcoming two cancers at the same time. Thirteen years after his first visit to the clinic, he died at the age of eighty-three, for reasons unrelated to Parkinson's or the cancers. He lived a full and happy life through the miracle of regeneration and healing. His story was so amazing that it was documented by an international television health program.”
Final takeaway
The Survival Paradox by Isaac Eliaz offers a profound and holistic perspective on health, disease, and healing. Dr. Eliaz’s unique approach, blending Western and Eastern medicine, delves into the interconnectedness of our physical and emotional well-being. The book provides valuable insights into transforming the body’s innate survival mode into a state of relaxation, enabling profound healing. Moreover, it sheds light on the pivotal role of inhibiting galectin-3 in disease management, highlighting its effects on various conditions and emphasising the significance of emotional well-being in the healing process.
The Survival Paradox is a must-read for individuals seeking to understand the intricate relationship between their survival responses, emotions, and overall health.
July 9, 2022
Awesome info on how to improve health!!
November 13, 2022
The strength of this book is the the author's emphasis that our body systems are so deeply integrated, and on a macro level we are also individuals integrated into society/community. Although I am not Buddhist as the author is and therefore we do not share a worldview, it does make a lot of sense that when your mind/soul is not at peace and is also in a fit trying to survive as the body also may be, then healing on both levels will be very difficult. I would just personally take a different avenue to obtain that peace.
On the other hand, I have a skepticism for claims about human health that say "it all comes down to..." or that any one thing (in this case managing galectin 3) is the lynchpin that will solve pretty much everything. And another raised eyebrow when this claim is accompanied by a product that the author sells to solve said myriad of problems. Yes, I can see that if you believed it and wanted to help as many people as possible you would make a product to do so, but it does cloud the credibility just a bit to me.
That being said, the author writes in a very accessible way and lacks the bravado and pushy assuredness that is common to this genre of books. I like that. He writes like he has something to share, not something to impose. If I were struggling with a chronic health issue, I think I would give his protocol a try. And maybe that is the best review I can give.
On the other hand, I have a skepticism for claims about human health that say "it all comes down to..." or that any one thing (in this case managing galectin 3) is the lynchpin that will solve pretty much everything. And another raised eyebrow when this claim is accompanied by a product that the author sells to solve said myriad of problems. Yes, I can see that if you believed it and wanted to help as many people as possible you would make a product to do so, but it does cloud the credibility just a bit to me.
That being said, the author writes in a very accessible way and lacks the bravado and pushy assuredness that is common to this genre of books. I like that. He writes like he has something to share, not something to impose. If I were struggling with a chronic health issue, I think I would give his protocol a try. And maybe that is the best review I can give.
August 29, 2022
This is one of the most fascinating things I've read in a while. It was so easy to read and so unusual and life-affirming that I didn't want to put it down once I'd begun reading. I have never before said that about a nonfiction book on health or nutrition or aging etc. In a way, the survival paradox says that we have both the seeds of immortality/life and the seeds of mortality/death in us and they're the same seeds. (Ha! Did that get your attention? It did mine.)
January 29, 2024
This book was a bit technical with the science but it needed to be. I got some great information and insight out of it and even ordered MCP (modified citrus pectin) after understanding how it works to reduce inflammation and Galectin-3 if it is out of control. I'm glad I read it but it did take me a while to get through the more scientific parts. The part about how the different organs are connected and the vital roles they play, according to Chinese medicine, was fascinating and made a lot of sense.
May 13, 2024
A new approach to curing cancer!
I think this book helps bring new thought provoking ideas that more people need to read about and share with others to hopefully bring about curing cancer. God gave people like this brilliant minds to use simple,everyday items that are readily available to help us live longer healthy lives. Hopefully the right people will read this.
I think this book helps bring new thought provoking ideas that more people need to read about and share with others to hopefully bring about curing cancer. God gave people like this brilliant minds to use simple,everyday items that are readily available to help us live longer healthy lives. Hopefully the right people will read this.
January 17, 2023
The best integrative medicine book I've read in a long time ;-)
July 24, 2023
Dr. Eliaz bridges the (apparent) gap between spirituality and physicality, emotions and molecules. As above, so below.
November 30, 2023
Excellent!
January 10, 2022
A beautiful integration to the treatment of not only cancer, but also everyday difficulties and emotional stresses that lead to inflammation and the eventual degradation of the mind, body, and spirit.
Eliaz masterfully combines allopathic treatments with traditional Chinese medicine and meditation to formulate an intimate approach to finding balance in health, even in the most extreme and difficult of circumstances.
The only reason I didn't give 5 stars is because he promotes his own line of supplements (although with good reason, one could argue).
Eliaz masterfully combines allopathic treatments with traditional Chinese medicine and meditation to formulate an intimate approach to finding balance in health, even in the most extreme and difficult of circumstances.
The only reason I didn't give 5 stars is because he promotes his own line of supplements (although with good reason, one could argue).
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