[racinghamster]

csockman, thanks so much for posting the link to this video lecture because I find it very, VERY interesting indeed, not just because I want to learn more about how best we can combat tumours in our hamsters, but I also have an added interest in cancer as a family member has currently undergone treatment for this ghastly disease, so listening to the world of science and what it as to offer us is wonderful to hear. I have saved the video and will be watching it again. I`m a big fan of those Christmas science lectures when they are on the BBC over Christmas and always try to watch them.

But going back to the subject we are discussing, I do feel that feeding (in small amounts) most of the safe list foods mentioned here to our hamsters as part of their existing diet can only be beneficial. I knew about the lycopene in cooked tomatoes for example but I`ve never fed any cooked tomatoes to my hamsters, only small pieces of raw tomato on occassion! But many of the berries and other foods mentioned could also be added in frequent, small quantities.

A lot of what the scientist in the video said is common sense really, with the science backing that up. Tumours DO need a blood supply to grow, so if we can find ways to block that or combat it, then I`m all for it.

SammyJo, the rainbow food idea is also interesting and mirrors what the professor was saying in the video, that some foods are more beneficial than others at preventing dseases.

As the old saying goes, prevention is better than cure, so if we can glean anything from this, it`s taking a long, close look at what our hamsters eat and in some cases, changing it.

I don`t feed any shop bought treats or anything outwith natural grains, seeds and fruits/veggies these days anyway, but I ill be taking a hard look at adding even more using some of the suggestions given in this video once checked for safety reasons.