The Flourish After Cancer Podcast

29: A Smarter Post-Cancer Plan (Use This Framework)

You finished cancer treatment… but instead of feeling “done,” the pressure just shifted
Now it feels like everything is on you.
Supplements, diets, gadgets, protocols, rules...???? Is this all just noise?
 
Constant questions like:
“Should I take this supplement?”
“Is this worth my money?”
“What if I miss the one thing that mattered?” 😮‍💨
 
Doing more starts to feel like the only way to stay safe.
 
In this episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, we talk about post-treatment overwhelm — and why the goal isn’t collecting more tools, but building a plan that actually fits your real life.
 
This conversation is designed to help you exhale
Step out of fear-based decision making
Learn how to prioritize your health without your plan running your entire life 💛
 
Episode Relevant Resources:
• Work with me and my team in The Roadmap To Recovery: www.FlourishAfterCancer.com/nextsteps
• Questions to ask yourself are over on my blog: https://flourishaftercancer.com/blog/e29
 
⚠️ This is a must-listen if:
You feel overwhelmed by post-cancer health advice online
You have endless tabs open on supplements and protocols
You keep wondering if you’re doing “enough”
You’re tired of making decisions from fear
You want to reduce recurrence risk without constant pressure
You want a plan that’s effective and sustainable
 
💊 In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why urgency after cancer often replaces strategy
How “doing something” can feel productive without creating results
The three real limits every health plan must respect: Time, Energy, Bandwidth
Why saying yes to one thing always means saying no to something else
How to filter decisions through evidence and personal relevance
Why “fancy” tools aren’t where you start
How a good plan protects your nervous system as much as your cells
 
💡 You’ll leave this episode with:
Relief from the pressure to do everything
A clearer way to decide what’s worth your effort
Less second-guessing and spiraling
More confidence in your next step
A calmer, more empowering mindset around prevention
 
I’m Dr. Megan, a licensed naturopathic doctor. My team and I have worked with hundreds of women globally to rebuild their health after cancer and reduce recurrence risk using science-backed nutrition, lifestyle, and targeted supplement strategies—so they can feel confident, strong, and free to enjoy life again.
 
Let's Connect! 
Book a free Roadmap Call and let’s chat about how we can help: https://flourishaftercancer.com/NextSteps
 
Follow me:
• Instagram: @MeganBernardND
• Facebook: @MeganBernardND
• Website: https://flourishaftercancer.com/
 
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in these videos and podcasts is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, medications, or lifestyle. Content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or care.

28: Cancer Recurrence Risk Isn’t Fixed: What Epigenetics Shows Us

Epigenetics isn’t something most people have ever heard about. And yet, it’s a great layer of support to help understand how your body actually works beneath the surface.
Unlike genetics, which refers to the DNA you’re born with, epigenetics looks at how your body uses those genes in response to things like nutrition, stress, inflammation, hormones, and treatment itself. It helps explain why genetics aren’t destiny — and why your body remains responsive, adaptable, and capable of change over time.
In this episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, we get detailed into cancer recurrence prevention using epigenetics and what actually matters after cancer: understanding how your body is responding now, and how you can support regulation, recovery, and resilience moving forward.
We talk about the difference between genetics and epigenetics, why “eat well and exercise” is often too vague to be useful after treatment, and how tools like epigenetic testing — when used thoughtfully — can help guide more strategic, personalized support without fear or perfection.Episode Relevant Resources:
Book a Roadmap Call To learn more about working with me and my team in The Roadmap To Recovery: https://flourishaftercancer.com/nextsteps
Episode 4: My 3 Favourite Functional Tests For Cancer Survivors: https://flourishaftercancer.com/blog/s01e04?preview=1&v=35052448 
⚠️ This is a must-listen if:
You’ve been told you “can’t control anything” — or only to “eat well and exercise” — and neither felt satisfying
You want to understand how lifestyle and biology actually interact after cancer
You’re overwhelmed by conflicting advice and want a calmer, more strategic approach
You’re curious about epigenetic testing but don’t want hype, blame, or extreme protocols
You want to feel more confident about how you’re supporting your body long term
💊 In this episode, you’ll learn:
The difference between genetics and epigenetics — and why it matters after cancer
Why having a genetic predisposition does not mean outcomes are fixed
How cancer treatment itself can influence epigenetic signaling
What epigenetic testing can (and can’t) tell us about recovery and recurrence risk
How methylation fits into regulation, repair, and growth signaling
Why chasing “perfect” gene expression is less important than functional improvement
How we support healthy methylation without turning it into a supplement overload
💡 You’ll leave this episode with:
A clearer understanding of what epigenetics actually means in real life
Reassurance that you are not to blame — and not powerless either
A more grounded view of how your body responds to nutrition, stress, and recovery signals
Confidence to focus on progress, regulation, and resilience instead of perfection
A better sense of when deeper, personalized tools like epigenetic testing may be helpful
I’m Dr Megan, a board-certified naturopathic doctor. My team and I have worked with hundreds of women around the world to rebuild their health after cancer and reduce recurrence risk using science-backed nutrition, lifestyle strategies, functional testing, and personalized care so they can feel steady in their bodies and confident about their future.
✨ Let’s Connect
Book a free Roadmap Call to explore whether working together makes sense for you:https://flourishaftercancer.com/nextsteps
 
Follow me:Instagram: @MeganBernardNDFacebook: @MeganBernardNDWebsite: https://flourishaftercancer.com/
Medical Disclaimer:The information provided in these podcasts is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, medications, supplements, or lifestyle. This content is not a substitute for individualized medical care.
 

27: The Best Teas For Cancer Thrivers

Tea shows up everywhere in cancer conversations — often framed as either a miracle cure or something meaningless. And neither of those extremes is helpful.
In this episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, I walk through how tea fits into post-treatment healing using research, clinical experience, and traditional use — explaining why small, consistent inputs like tea can help shape inflammation balance, immune regulation, detox pathways, and cellular resilience over time.
 
Episode Relevant Resources:
E15 Coffee Vs Cancer: Can you enjoy your cup without fear? https://youtu.be/HU3zZtzREgw
The First 4 Steps To Staying Cancer Free After Cancer: http://flourishaftercancer.com/presentation
Book a call to learn more about working with me and my team: http://flourishaftercancer.com/nextsteps 
 
⚠️ This is a must-listen if:
• You’ve heard mixed or confusing messages about tea and cancer
• You want supportive daily habits without fear or perfection
• You’re rebuilding trust in your body after treatment
• You’re looking for science-informed guidance that’s realistic and gentle
 
💊 In this episode, you’ll learn:
• Why tea shows up in cancer research — and what the research does and doesn’t say
• What polyphenols are and how they influence inflammation, DNA protection, and cell signaling
• Why consistency matters more than “strong” or aggressive strategies
• My favorite teas to enjoy regularly after cancer, and why
• Important tea safety considerations after treatment
 
💡 You’ll leave this episode with:
• A clearer understanding of how tea fits into recovery without overpromising
• Confidence to use tea as a supportive, calming daily ritual
• A gentler mindset around healing and long-term resilience
• Practical ways to support your body without feeling overwhelmed
 
I’m Dr. Megan, a licensed naturopathic doctor. My team and I have worked with hundreds of women globally to rebuild their health after cancer and reduce recurrence risk using science-backed nutrition, lifestyle, and targeted supplement strategies—so they can feel confident, strong, and free to enjoy life again.
 
Let's Connect! 
Book a free Roadmap Call and let’s chat about how we can help: https://flourishaftercancer.com/NextSteps
 
Follow me:
• Instagram: @MeganBernardND
• Facebook: @MeganBernardND
• Website: https://flourishaftercancer.com/
 
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in these videos and podcasts is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, medications, or lifestyle. Content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or care.

26: Inflammation, Immune Balance, and Cancer Recurrence

Inflammation is everywhere in the cancer conversation — and for good reason. But when everything gets labeled “inflammation,” it can start to feel vague, overwhelming, or even scary.
In this episode, we slow the conversation down. We talk about what inflammation actually is, why it’s not something you want to eliminate, and how chronic, unresolved inflammation — especially after cancer treatment — can quietly affect recovery, energy, and long-term recurrence risk.
This is a grounded, practical look at inflammation as something we can measure, understand, and work with — rather than fear.
In this episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, I break down inflammation through a post-treatment lens using clinical insight, research, and what I see every day with women after cancer — exploring why inflammation can be both protective and problematic, and what it takes to help the body resolve it instead of staying stuck.
✨ Episode Relevant Resources:
The Blood Work Clarity Live Bootcamp (Jan 22, 23, 26, & 27): www.FlourishAfterCancer.com/bootcamp
Episode 23: Alcohol & Cancer — Is Any Alcohol Safe?: www.FlourishAfterCancer.com/Blog/S01E23
The First 4 Steps to Staying Cancer-Free: www.FlourishAfterCancer.com/presentation
⚠️ This is a must-listen if:
You keep hearing “inflammation” but no one explains what it really means for you
You’re done with treatment but don’t feel fully recovered yet
You’ve been told your labs are “normal,” but your body says otherwise
💊 In this episode, you’ll learn:
What inflammation really is — when it supports healing and when it becomes a problem
Cancer as a regulation issue — how damage, resources, and immune function interact over time
The two sides of inflammation — short-term healing vs. chronic, draining inflammation
Common inflammatory drivers — including blood sugar imbalance, infections, stress, sleep disruption, and environmental load
Why inflammation often lingers after treatment — and why it doesn’t always resolve on its own
How we address inflammation — certain steps you don’t want to forget
💡 You’ll leave this episode with:
How to tell the difference between helpful inflammation and the kind that stalls healing
Why your body may still feel behind even though treatment is “over”
What keeps inflammation turned on after cancer — and why willpower isn’t the issue
A calmer, clearer path forward when inflammation is addressed in the right order
 
I’m Dr. Megan, a licensed naturopathic doctor. My team and I have worked with hundreds of women globally to rebuild their health after cancer and reduce recurrence risk using science-backed nutrition, lifestyle, and targeted supplement strategies — so they can feel confident, strong, and free to enjoy life again.
 
✨ Let's Connect!Book a free Roadmap Call and let’s chat about how we can help: https://flourishaftercancer.com/nextsteps
Follow me:
Instagram: @MeganBernardND
Facebook: @MeganBernardND
Website: https://flourishaftercancer.com/
 
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in these videos and podcasts is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, medications, or lifestyle. Content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or care.

25: Does Sugar Really Feed Cancer?

Don’t forget to check out my upcoming Blood Work Clarity Bootcamp over at www.FlourishAfterCancer.com/bootcamp 
You’ve finished cancer treatment — but then you’re handed another rule that can feel just as scary and overwhelming: “Sugar feeds cancer.”
Maybe you’ve cut out fruit. Avoided carbs. Felt guilt or fear every time something sweet touched your plate.
And maybe you’re wondering… am I doing enough to protect myself? Is it worth all the restrictions?
In this episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, I’ll break down why the idea that “sugar feeds cancer” is an oversimplification — and why the real issue isn’t sugar itself, but blood sugar regulation.
This conversation is designed to help you exhale, release fear-based food rules, and understand what actually supports healing and long-term health after cancer.
🔗 Episode Relevant Resources 1️⃣ Blood Work Bootcamp: www.FlourishAfterCancer.com/Bootcamp 2️⃣ E22 How To Block Cancer Recurrence by Changing The Tumor Neighbourhood: https://flourishaftercancer.com/blog/s01e22 3️⃣ E08 Is Your IGF-1 Fueling or Fighting Cancer? https://flourishaftercancer.com/blog/s01e08
⚠️ This is a must-listen if:
You’ve been told to cut out sugar completely after cancer
You feel anxious or guilty eating carbs or fruit
You’re confused by conflicting nutrition advice online
You want to reduce recurrence risk without living in restriction
You want clarity rooted in physiology — not fear
🍓 In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why every cell in your body (including your immune system and brain) needs glucose
Why eliminating sugar completely often backfires and increases stress on the body
How blood sugar spikes, insulin, and inflammation actually influence cancer risk
The role of insulin and IGF-1 in growth, inflammation, and recurrence risk
Why some women tolerate carbs well — and others don’t — after cancer
How menopause, muscle mass, gut health, and stress change how your body handles sugar
Which blood markers remove emotion and guesswork from food decisions
💡 You’ll leave this episode with:
A calmer, science-backed understanding of sugar and cancer
Relief from all-or-nothing thinking around food
Confidence that stability matters more than perfection
A new goal: a body that can handle sugar well — not avoid it forever
I’m Dr. Megan, a board-certified naturopathic doctor. My team and I have worked with hundreds of women globally to rebuild their health after cancer and reduce recurrence risk using science-backed nutrition, lifestyle, and targeted supplement strategies — so they can feel confident, strong, and free to enjoy life again.
 
✨ Let's Connect!Book a free Roadmap Call and let’s chat about how we can help: https://flourishaftercancer.com/nextsteps
Follow me:
Instagram: @MeganBernardND
Facebook: @MeganBernardND
Website: https://flourishaftercancer.com/
 
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in these videos and podcasts is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, medications, or lifestyle. Content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or care.

24: A Natural At Home Injectable That Helps Kill Cancer (Mistletoe)

You’ve maybe seen it hanging in doorways every December but mistletoe isn’t just a holiday decoration. Across Europe, mistletoe extract has been used for decades in integrative cancer care, and now, more survivors in North America are starting to ask: Can it really help with blocking and healing after cancer?
In this episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, Dr. Megan Bernard, ND, breaks down what the science actually says about mistletoe (Viscum album) and its role in supporting cancer recovery. You’ll learn where it’s used, what the research shows, and how survivors can make informed, balanced decisions about whether it’s right for them.
🔗 Episode Relevant Resources:
The Blood Work Clarity Guide For Cancer Survivors: https://flourishaftercancer.com/bloodworkclarity
The First 4 Steps To Staying Cancer Free: https://flourishaftercancer.com/presentation
⚠️ This is a must-listen if:
You’ve heard about mistletoe therapy and want to know if it actually works
You’re looking for evidence-based ways to improve quality of life after cancer
You’re curious about how integrative therapies fit with conventional treatment
You want clarity—not hype—on natural approaches to cancer care
💊 In this episode, you’ll learn:
What mistletoe extract (Viscum album) is and how it’s used in oncology clinics in Europe
The research behind mistletoe’s effects on immunity, inflammation, and quality of life
What clinical trials say about symptom relief, fatigue, and potential survival benefits
Why mistletoe is not approved as a cancer treatment in North America (and what that means)
How survivors can discuss mistletoe safely with their oncologist or integrative practitioner
The balanced truth — where mistletoe fits in, and where it doesn’t
💡 You’ll leave this episode with:
A clear, science-based understanding of mistletoe therapy
Confidence in how to evaluate integrative options post-treatment
Realistic expectations — and the knowledge to make empowered, informed choices
Practical guidance for combining natural and conventional support
I’m Dr. Megan, a licensed naturopathic doctor. My team and I have worked with hundreds of women globally to rebuild their health after cancer and reduce recurrence risk using science-backed nutrition, lifestyle, and targeted supplement strategies—so they can feel confident, strong, and free to enjoy life again.
✨ Let's Connect! 
Book a free Roadmap Call and let’s chat about how we can help: https://flourishaftercancer.com/nextsteps
Follow me:
Instagram: @MeganBernardND
Facebook:  @MeganBernardND
Website: https://flourishaftercancer.com/
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in these videos and podcasts is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, medications, or lifestyle. Content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or care.

23: Alcohol & Cancer: Is Any Alcohol Safe?

In most places in the world, alcohol is a part of almost every celebration — from family dinners and holidays, to girls’ nights and “just one glass to relax” at the end of the day.
But after cancer, that simple glass of wine can raise complicated questions:
👉 “Is this safe for me?”
👉 “Will drinking increase my risk of recurrence?”
👉 “How do I say no at parties? It’s so awkward.”
 
In this week’s episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, Dr Megan Bernard, ND is joined by Kate Bee, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Practitioner and creator of The Sober School, and they break down the research behind alcohol and cancer risk — and how to make informed, empowered decisions that align with your health and your life.
 
⚠️ This is a must-listen if:
You’re wondering what the science actually says about alcohol and cancer risk
You’ve heard mixed messages about “safe” drinking levels
You want to enjoy social events without anxiety or guilt
 
💊 In this episode, you’ll learn:
How alcohol acts as a carcinogen and impacts weight gain, liver function, and estrogen levels
How alcohol influences hormone balance, gut health, and detoxification
Why moderation looks different after cancer — and what realistic limits look like
Simple, practical swaps for holiday celebrations that still feel joyful and satisfying
 
💡 You’ll leave this episode with:
A research-backed understanding of alcohol’s impact on your health
Confidence to make your own informed, balanced choices
Real-world strategies to enjoy the holidays without undoing your progress
Freedom from guilt and confusion — because this is about living well
 
I’m Dr Megan, a licensed naturopathic doctor. My team and I have worked with hundreds of women globally to rebuild their health after cancer and reduce recurrence risk using science-backed nutrition, lifestyle, and targeted supplement strategies—so they can feel confident, strong, and free to enjoy life again.
 
👉 Follow Kate Bee of The Sober School:
Instagram: @TheSoberSchool
Website: http://www.thesoberschool.com
 
🔗 Episode Relevant Resources:
The First 4 Steps To Staying Cancer Free: https://flourishaftercancer.com/presentation
The Blood Work Clarity Guide For Cancer Survivors: https://flourishaftercancer.com/bloodworkclarity
The Flourish Blog, "Does Alcohol Increase Cancer Recurrence Risk?": https://flourishaftercancer.com/blog/does-alcohol-increase-cancer-recurrence-risk
 
✨ Let's Connect! 
Book a free Roadmap Call and let’s chat about how we can help: https://flourishaftercancer.com/nextsteps
 
Follow me:
Instagram: @MeganBernardND
Facebook:  @MeganBernardND
Website: https://flourishaftercancer.com/
 
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in these videos and podcasts is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, medications, or lifestyle. Content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or care.
📚 References
Bagnardi V, et al. Alcohol consumption and site-specific cancer risk: A comprehensive dose–response meta-analysis. British Journal of Cancer. 2015;112(3):580–593.
Seitz HK, et al. Alcohol metabolism and cancer risk. Alcohol Research: Current Reviews. 2017;38(2):121–129.
World Health Organization. No Level of Alcohol Consumption Is Safe for Our Health. WHO Regional Office for Europe. 2023.
LoConte NK, et al. Alcohol and Cancer: A Statement of the American Society of Clinical Oncology. Journal of Clinical Oncology. 2018;36(1):83–93.

22: How To Block Cancer Recurrence by Changing The Tumor Neighbourhood

Most people think of cancer as just a cluster of disorganized and unpredictable cells—but the real story on how cancer cells behave lies in the neighborhood they live in.
In this episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, Dr. Megan Bernard, ND, unpacks one of the most fascinating (and empowering) areas of cancer research: the tumor microenvironment — the community of immune cells, connective tissue, blood vessels, and signals that can either help or hinder cancer’s growth.
You’ll learn how this environment becomes either pro-cancer or anti-cancer, and how lifestyle, nutrition, and medical therapies can help “renovate” it back to health (and you don’t need a science degree to understand it!).
⚠️ This is a must-listen if:
You’ve finished cancer treatment and want to understand what’s happening inside your body
You’ve heard about inflammation or “terrain” but want the science behind it
You’re curious how stress, oxygen levels, and immune function shape your recovery
You want to learn how food, movement, and mindset literally change your internal environment
💊 In this episode, you’ll learn:
What the tumor microenvironment actually is — and why it’s more important than the tumor itself
The cellular players that can either fight or protect cancer (like macrophages, fibroblasts, and immune cells)
The non-cellular factors — like the extracellular matrix, exosomes, oxygen, and acidity — that control how cancer spreads
Why the “acidic” environment inside tumors isn’t fixed by alkaline diets (and what really helps)
The science of “stemness” — how some cells resist treatment and what can help target them
How both medicine and lifestyle can help shift your internal neighborhood from cancer-promoting to cancer-blocking
💡 You’ll leave this episode with:
A clear, relatable understanding of the tumor microenvironment
Hope — because what’s happening inside your body can be changed
Science-backed next steps you can use today
 
🔗 Episode Relevant Resources:
The First 4 Steps To Staying Cancer Free: https://flourishaftercancer.com/presentation
The Blood Work Clarity Guide For Cancer Survivors: https://flourishaftercancer.com/bloodworkclarity
 
✨ Let's Connect! 
Book a free Roadmap Call and let’s chat about how we can help: https://flourishaftercancer.com/nextsteps
 
Follow me:
Instagram: @MeganBernardND
Facebook:  @MeganBernardND
Website: https://flourishaftercancer.com/
 
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in these videos and podcasts is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, medications, or lifestyle. Content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or care.

21: Powerhouse AntiCancer Foods: What Every Cancer Survivor Should Be Eating

You’ve heard that certain foods can help lower your risk of cancer coming back — but why and what ones are the best?
Most supplements actually start from plants — sulforaphane from broccoli, polyphenols from berries, catechins from green tea — but when we isolate them into capsules, we lose the teamwork that makes food so powerful.
In this episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, Dr Megan Bernard, ND, shares how phytonutrients — the natural compounds plants create to protect themselves also protect you. She explains why whole-food synergy often outperforms isolated nutrients and highlights four foods proven to help reduce cancer and recurrence risk.
⚠️ This is a must-listen if: • You’ve been told to “eat healthy” but aren’t sure what that means after cancer • You rely on supplements and wonder if they’re enough • You want to lower inflammation and balance hormones naturally • You’re curious what the best diet is to block cancer
💊 In this episode, you’ll learn: • What phytonutrients are and how they block cancer-promoting pathways • How whole foods can create stronger protection than single supplements • The four powerhouse food groups every survivor should eat regularly • How fiber supports detoxification, hormones, and gut health • When supplements do make sense — and how to use them wisely
💡 You’ll leave this episode with:
A science-based understanding of why real food is your best daily defense
Confidence to simplify your plate — and still make it powerfully anti-cancer
Easy ways to turn everyday meals into tools for recovery and prevention
🔗 Episode Relevant Resources
Free Masterclass — The 3 Keys to Effective Anti-Cancer Nutrition: https://FlourishAfterCancer.com/nutritionmasterclass
Free Blood Work Clarity Guide: https://flourishaftercancer.com/bloodworkclarity
✨ Let’s Connect
Instagram: @MeganBernardND
Facebook: @MeganBernardND
Website: https://FlourishAfterCancer.com
Book a Free Roadmap Call: https://flourishaftercancer.com/nextsteps
📚 References available on my website
Medical Disclaimer: The information in this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, medications, or lifestyle.
 

20: The Overlooked Step in Cancer Recovery: Preparing for Surgery

Don't forget to check out The Breast Cancer Freedom Workshop, happening November 18-20. Learn more here: The Breast Cancer Freedom Workshop: https://flourishaftercancer.com/breastcancerfreedom
 
What if you could shorten healing time, reduce complications, and step into surgery feeling more confident and in control?
 
Too often, women go into surgery with little guidance beyond the hospital packet — and then face long recoveries, unexpected side effects, and extra stress they never saw coming. 
 
In this episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Rebecca Knackstedt, MD, PhD — a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon, certified functional medicine physician, and co-founder of Clara Recovery — to talk about how preparation can transform surgical outcomes.
 
⚠️ This is a must-listen if:
 • You’re facing surgery after cancer and want to feel empowered, not fearful
 • You’re curious about “prehabilitation” and what it means for recovery
 • You want to know how stress, sleep, scars, and even supplements impact healing
 • You’ve ever wondered why no one talks about this and where to actually get answers
 
💊 In this episode, you’ll learn:
 • The most common side effects women face after surgery and how to ease them
 • Why preparing ahead can reduce drains, pain, neuropathy, and recovery costs
 • What the research says about nutrition, scar healing, and surgical outcomes
 • The one thing you can do right now to improve your surgical experience
 
💡 You’ll leave this episode with:
 • A science-backed understanding of how to prepare your body for surgery
 • Practical, real-life tools to make recovery smoother and less overwhelming
 • Clarity around supplements, stress management, and what to expect when you get home
 • The confidence that your healing doesn’t have to be left to chance — you can influence the outcome
 
I’m Dr Megan, a licensed naturopathic doctor. My team and I have worked with thousands of women globally to rebuild their health after cancer and reduce recurrence risk using science-backed nutrition, lifestyle, and targeted supplement strategies—so they can feel confident, strong, and free to enjoy life again.
 
✨ EPISODE RELEVANT RESOURCES:
• The Breast Cancer Freedom Workshop: https://flourishaftercancer.com/breastcancerfreedom
• Supporting Sexual Health Handout + Breast Cancer Thrivers Recipe Book https://flourishaftercancer.com/breastcancerrecipes
 
👉 Follow Dr Rebecca Knackstedt, MD, PhD:
• Instagram: @surgical_recovery
• Website: https://www.clararecovery.com/about
 
✨ BEST FREE RESOURCES:
• The First 4 Steps To Staying Cancer-Free: HERE
• The Blood Test Clarity Guide For Cancer Survivors: HERE
 
Let's Connect! 
Book a free Roadmap Call and let’s chat about how we can help: HERE
 
Follow me:
• Instagram: @MeganBernardND
• Facebook: @MeganBernardND
 
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in these videos and podcasts is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, medications, or lifestyle. Content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or care.