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German New Medicine: What Is It and Is It Beneficial?

German New Medicine: What Is It and Is It Beneficial?

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What is German New Medicine

German New Medicine (GNM) is a controversial theory that claims that diseases, primarily cancer, arise from emotional conflicts or psychological trauma. GNM adherents reject traditional approaches to treatment and believe that recovery is possible only through the resolution of internal conflicts and overcoming stress. This concept is controversial and criticized in the medical community because it ignores scientifically proven treatment methods and can put patients' health at risk.

German New Medicine was founded by German otolaryngologist Ricke Gerd Hamer. In 1978, Hamer suffered a tragic loss: his nineteen-year-old son Dirk died from a gunshot wound. Shortly after this event, Hamer was diagnosed with testicular cancer, which led him to develop new approaches to medicine. These methods are based on the relationship between emotional experiences and physical health, which became the core principle of German New Medicine. Hamer argues that illnesses arise as a result of conflicts and emotional trauma, and his approach aims to identify and resolve these internal conflicts to restore health.

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Preventive medicine is a field of medicine focused on preventing disease and maintaining health. It includes a wide range of activities aimed at identifying risk factors, early diagnosis, and disease prevention. Preventive medicine is based on the principle that it is better to prevent a disease than to treat its consequences.

The main goal of preventive medicine is to reduce morbidity and mortality through the implementation of vaccination programs, screening, and public awareness programs about healthy lifestyles. This not only improves quality of life but also reduces treatment costs.

It is important to note that preventive medicine includes both individual and community measures. Individual measures include regular medical examinations and health monitoring, while community measures focus on creating a healthy environment and access to medical services.

Thus, preventive medicine plays a key role in modern healthcare, contributing not only to improving the health of individuals but also to raising the overall health of the population.

The doctor linked the child's death to stress and concluded that this emotional shock could have caused the child's illness. This prompted Hamer to delve deeper into the relationship between emotional trauma and various diseases. He presented the results of his research in a paper, "The Dirk Hamer Syndrome, or the Iron Rule of Cancer," which he submitted to the University of Tübingen. However, the work did not undergo further review, as experts rejected it due to numerous inaccuracies and obvious unscientific nature. Hamer's research, despite its controversy, drew attention to the importance of understanding the psychosomatic aspects of health.

Despite criticism from the scientific community, Hamer continued to believe in the correctness of his beliefs and began to use alternative treatment methods, which he himself called German New Medicine. His approach was based on the idea of ​​​​a connection between emotional conflicts and physical illnesses, which attracted the attention of many proponents of alternative medicine. Hamer sought to prove that treatment should be aimed not only at eliminating symptoms, but also at understanding the underlying causes of diseases.

According to Hamer, German New Medicine (GNM) is based on five postulates, which are also called "biological laws." These laws describe the relationship between the human psyche, emotions, and physical state, emphasizing that illnesses are the result of psychological conflicts. Understanding these postulates can help us understand the causes of illnesses and find ways to eliminate them by resolving internal conflicts. Each of these laws plays a key role in explaining the mechanisms underlying various diseases and offers a unique approach to treatment that focuses on restoring psychoemotional balance.

  • Every disease begins with an unexpected emotional conflict (in the GNM it is called a "biological conflict"). This event disrupts the functioning of the brain and triggers the disease.
  • Any disease goes through two phases: an active (stressful) phase and a recovery phase, which begins when the "biological conflict" is resolved.
  • There are specific relationships between the type of conflict, the affected area of ​​the brain, and the organ whose function is disrupted. Hamer even compiled a table to help determine which emotion caused a particular disease. For example, in his opinion, the fear of death leads to lung cancer, and guilt to breast cancer.
  • Viruses and bacteria are not the cause of infectious diseases, but helpers that are activated by the body during the recovery process. For this reason, they cannot be destroyed with drugs and other therapeutic agents.
  • Diseases are "meaningful biological programs" that are activated by stress and help cope with it. Modern man, living far from nature, finds it difficult to understand them, and therefore cannot be cured.

Dr. Hamer argued that traditional methods of treating diseases are not only ineffective but can also be dangerous. His method was based on identifying and resolving internal conflicts, after which, in his opinion, the disease should disappear without the need for surgery or medication. A large number of patients, following Hamer's recommendations, refused formal treatment and, as a result, often died, unable to resolve their internal problems. Hamer himself was able to overcome testicular cancer thanks to surgery, but he rarely mentioned this aspect of his life. It is important to understand that refusing traditional treatment can have serious health consequences.

In 1995, one of the most high-profile cases in Hamer's practice occurred. The parents of six-year-old Olivia Pilhar, diagnosed with kidney cancer, decided to withdraw their daughter from the hospital and pursue German New Medicine (GNM) treatments. This decision sparked discussions about cancer treatment approaches and generated widespread public outcry. Olivia Pilhar's case has raised questions about the safety of alternative therapies and how they might impact children's health.

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Nutrigenomics is the science that studies the influence of nutrition on the body's genetic factors. She studies how different foods and nutrients can affect gene expression, as well as how genetic predispositions can influence nutrient absorption. This field of science helps understand how individual metabolic characteristics and genetic variations can alter the body's response to different diets. Nutrigenomics is used to develop personalized nutrition plans that take into account a person's unique genetic characteristics, which can improve health and prevent disease. Modern research in nutrigenomics is opening new horizons in the fields of dietetics and medicine, offering more effective approaches to nutrition and treatment.

The girl's condition rapidly worsened. After two months of alternative therapy, the tumor grew to the size of a football, and the probability of survival dropped from 90% to 10%. At this time, Austrian authorities decided to intervene and initiated the process of depriving the child of parental rights in order to begin the necessary treatment, despite the parents' resistance. At the hospital, the tumor was successfully removed, saving Olivia's life.

In 1986, Hamer was stripped of his medical license and convicted in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, and France. He served two prison sentences for deaths related to the alternative treatments he promoted. Despite this, after his release, Hamer continued to actively promote the ideas of German New Medicine (GNM) and attract new followers. His work has generated considerable attention and controversy in medical and scientific circles, highlighting the importance of a critical approach to alternative therapies.

Rieke Gerd Hamer, who passed away in 2017 at the age of 82, left a significant legacy in the field of alternative medicine. His concepts continue to attract followers who actively write books, organize seminars and courses, and see patients seeking to learn about his methods. Hamer's ideas about the connection between psycho-emotional states and physical health continue to be discussed and researched, confirming his influence on modern medicine and alternative approaches to treatment.

How the Body and Mind Are Really Connected

The statement that "all diseases come from nerves" is partially true. Doctors and scientists recognize that stress can contribute to the activation and worsening of a number of pathological processes in the body. However, cancer and sepsis are not the result of suppressed emotions. The development of these diseases is caused by more complex mechanisms, including genetic, environmental, and biochemical factors. Understanding the role of stress in health is important, but other causes of disease must also be considered.

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Integrative medicine is an approach to healthcare that combines traditional methods of treatment with alternative and complementary practices. The primary goal of integrative medicine is to address all aspects of a patient's health, including physical, emotional, and social well-being. This approach is based on the principles of individualized treatment, which allows for the unique needs of each patient to be addressed.

Integrative medicine encompasses a wide range of practices, including herbal medicine, acupuncture, massage, yoga, and meditation. These methods are widely used to improve overall health, reduce the symptoms of chronic diseases, and enhance quality of life. A key aspect of integrative medicine is collaboration between various specialists, which allows for the creation of comprehensive, patient-centered treatment programs.

Integrative medicine is suitable for people of all ages and can be beneficial for both disease prevention and treatment. This approach not only helps manage physical ailments but also improves psycho-emotional well-being, which is an important factor in the recovery process. Integrative medicine offers a more holistic view of health, making it increasingly popular in modern society.

The connection between the body and mind is mediated by the nervous, hormonal, and immune systems. Scientific research confirms that emotions, thoughts, and psychological state have a significant impact on health, and vice versa. For example, stress has physical manifestations: when you're nervous, your heart rate increases, your breathing becomes shallow, your blood pressure rises, and your hormone levels fluctuate. Experiencing stress occasionally is normal. Problems arise when stress becomes chronic. However, even then, it doesn't directly cause illness; it merely increases the risk of developing it. It's important to recognize this connection and find ways to manage stress to maintain mental and physical health. Chronic stress can significantly increase the risk of developing and exacerbating various health conditions. These include cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension and myocardial infarction. Stress also negatively impacts the immune system, which can lead to increased susceptibility to infections and other illnesses. Mental health disorders, including depression and anxiety, can also be exacerbated by chronic stress. Furthermore, it can contribute to the development of digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome and ulcers. Finally, chronic stress can worsen overall health, which in turn increases the risk of diabetes and other metabolic disorders. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to stress management and the prevention of its health consequences.

  • Cardiovascular diseases: arterial hypertension, coronary heart disease, cardiomyopathy, arrhythmia, heart failure [7].
  • Migraine is a severe headache that can last for several hours and is accompanied by nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and sound.
  • Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic functional disorder in which a person experiences discomfort in the abdomen, complains of pain, bloating, constipation, diarrhea [8].
  • Psoriasis and atopic dermatitis are skin diseases that have been proven to worsen with stress [9].
  • Peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum: emotional experiences can lead to a relapse of the disease [10].
  • Amenorrhea and dysmenorrhea are conditions associated with a violation menstrual cycle [5].
  • Erectile dysfunction, which is often psychogenic, that is, caused not by trauma and disorders, but by depression, anxiety, obsessive thoughts [11].
  • ARI. Against the background of chronic stress, the immune system weakens, the body becomes more susceptible to viral infections [12].

Can stress cause cancer?

Chronic stress has a harmful effect on the body, leading to its exhaustion and weakening of the immune system. In combination with other unfavorable factors, such as poor nutrition, lack of physical activity and environmental hazards, it can increase the likelihood of developing cancer. However, the presence of chronic stress is not a direct guarantee that a person will definitely get cancer. It is important to manage stress and take care of your health to reduce the risks associated with various diseases.

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Stress is the body's natural reaction to various external and internal stimuli. It can occur in response to various situations, such as difficulties at work, problems in your personal life, or financial difficulties. Stress can have a significant impact on a person's health, both physical and mental.

When exposed to intense or prolonged stress, the body begins to produce hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. These substances can cause various changes in the body, including an increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, and a weakened immune system. As a result, this can lead to conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and depression.

Furthermore, chronic stress can negatively impact a person's mental state. It can cause anxiety, irritability, and sleep problems. Stress can also lead to decreased concentration and productivity.

To manage stress, it is important to use relaxation techniques such as meditation, physical activity, and proper nutrition. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and seeking prompt medical attention can help minimize the negative impact of stress on health.

A large-scale study conducted in Europe involving over 100,000 people found no link between stress levels and the risk of developing the most common types of cancer. These findings may change our understanding of the factors that contribute to the development of cancer and highlight the need for further research into the impact of stress on health.

Factors that significantly increase the risk of developing cancer include the following:

Smoking is a major risk factor for various types of cancer, including lung, mouth, and throat cancer. Alcohol also plays a significant role, as excess alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of liver, breast, and esophageal cancer. A poor diet, including a high intake of processed foods and a lack of fruits and vegetables, can significantly increase the likelihood of the disease.

Overweight and obesity are also considered significant risk factors, as they are associated with a number of cancers, including breast and colorectal cancer. Lack of physical activity and a sedentary lifestyle increase the risk of cancer, as they contribute to weight gain and the development of other comorbidities.

Exposure to ultraviolet radiation, both from the sun and tanning beds, increases the likelihood of developing skin cancer. Finally, having a family history and certain genetic mutations can significantly increase the risk of cancer in individuals. Studying these risk factors is crucial for cancer prevention and early detection.

  • family history of cancer (especially before age 50);
  • human papillomavirus (HPV) infection;
  • alcohol abuse;
  • smoking;
  • obesity.

How German New Medicine differs from Evidence-Based Medicine

Evidence-based medicine is a method of diagnosis and treatment selection based on the results of large-scale scientific research. Doctors who follow the principles of evidence-based medicine recommend to their patients only those methods and drugs whose effectiveness has been confirmed on a large number of people with similar diagnoses and which are included in official guidelines and treatment standards. This excludes the use of methods that have helped only a few patients, as well as drugs whose safety has not been confirmed in clinical trials. This approach provides a higher level of confidence in the treatment outcome and minimizes risks for patients.

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Traditional medicine: a scientific view of effectiveness

Traditional medicine, passed down from generation to generation, attracts the attention of both supporters and skeptics. Many herbal, natural, and traditional healing methods and remedies raise questions about their effectiveness and safety from a scientific perspective.

Research shows that some folk remedies may indeed have beneficial properties. For example, various herbs and extracts, such as chamomile, mint, and ginger, are used to alleviate the symptoms of various ailments. However, it is important to understand that not all folk remedies are scientifically supported. Many have not undergone clinical trials, casting doubt on their effectiveness.

From a scientific perspective, it is important to approach folk medicine with caution. It is recommended to consult a doctor before using any folk remedies, especially if you have serious illnesses or underlying conditions. Scientific research can help identify both the positive and negative effects of using folk remedies.

In conclusion, folk medicine can be a useful complement to conventional treatments, but its use should be based on scientific evidence and expert recommendations.

German New Medicine lacks a scientifically sound evidence base. The main studies on its effectiveness and safety were conducted by the founder of the method, Dr. Hamer. He formed arguments in support of this alternative approach based on personal findings, while attributing tragic cases of patient deaths to insufficient diligence in resolving conflicts. It is important to note that the lack of independent scientific research calls into question the reliability and safety of this method.

The sequence of two events does not always indicate their cause and effect relationship. This cognitive error is known as apophenia, which manifests itself in the desire to find patterns in random data. While apophenia can facilitate understanding of complex situations and help in finding solutions, it can also lead to erroneous conclusions, especially in critical areas such as the treatment of serious illnesses. In such cases, it is crucial to remain objective and make informed decisions based on evidence and research.

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