The Flourish After Cancer Podcast

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.

19: Are Hormone-Blocking Medications Protecting You—Or Hurting You? Let’s Assess.

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
 
You beat breast cancer — but then you’re handed another decision that can feel just as heavy: Should I take hormone-blocking therapy?
Or, you’re currently taking hormone blocking therapy and you’re wondering if you’ve made the right choice or thinking about the long term risks and side effects. 
Tamoxifen. Letrozole. Anastrozole. Exemestane.
These medications are designed to stop estrogen from fueling new cancer growth — but for many women, they also bring side effects that affect sleep, mood, intimacy, and quality of life. Not to mention your risk of heart attack, stroke, bone fractures, and dementia. 
In this episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, Dr Megan Bernard, ND, breaks down how these therapies work, the real numbers behind their benefits, and the questions every survivor should ask before deciding whether to stay on (or start) them.
⚠️ This is a must-listen if:
You’ve been prescribed Tamoxifen, Letrozole, Anastrozole, or Exemestane
You’re wondering how much these drugs actually reduce recurrence risk
You’re struggling with side effects like hot flashes, joint pain, or brain fog
You’re curious about whether natural options can replace or complement hormone therapy
You want a clear, balanced view—without fear-mongering or medical gaslighting
 
💊 In this episode, you’ll learn:
How hormone-blocking therapies work — and how they differ between pre- and post-menopause
The trade-offs of estrogen suppression: why it protects against cancer but can harm bones, heart, and brain health
What your Oncotype DX or MammaPrint results really mean and how to interpret relative vs. absolute risk
The role of genetics and epigenetics — including the CYP2D6 gene that determines how well your body activates Tamoxifen and APOE4 that can show a raised risk of developing dementia (estrogen = brain health).
Natural strategies that may help ease side effects like hot flashes, weight gain, and low mood
How to evaluate your personal risk of heart disease, fractures, and dementia so you can make an informed, individualized choice
💡 You’ll leave this episode with:
A science-backed understanding of both the benefits and trade-offs of hormone-blocking therapy
Tools to discuss with your oncologist or integrative provider before making your decision
Confidence that whether you choose medication, natural support, or both—you can still take powerful steps to reduce recurrence risk and feel well
 
EPISODE RELEVANT RESOURCES:
The Breast Cancer Freedom Workshop: https://flourishaftercancer.com/breastcancerfreedom
S01 | E18 Don’t Let Weak Bones Haunt You: Building Bone Health After Menopause & Cancer Treatment 
S01 | E17 Sexual Health And Hormone Therapy After Cancer
 
✨ BEST FREE RESOURCES:
The First 4 Steps To Staying Cancer-Free: HERE
The Blood Test Clarity Guide For Cancer Survivors: HERE
Breast Cancer Thrivers Recipe Book & Sexual Health Handout HERE
 
Let's Connect! 
Book a free Roadmap Call and let’s chat about how we can help: Learn More
 
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.

18: Don’t Let Weak Bones Haunt You: Building Bone Health After Menopause & Cancer Treatment

Don't forget to check out The Breast Cancer Freedom Workshop, happening November 18-20, 2025. Learn more here > The Breast Cancer Freedom Workshop: https://flourishaftercancer.com/breastcancerfreedomIt’s that time of year (Halloween) when skeletons decorate every front yard and bone-shaped candies fill the stores. But for many women after cancer, bone health is no joke.
If menopause came early because of treatment, or you’re taking hormone-blocking therapy, your bones may be losing strength faster than you realize. Yet most advice women get stops at “take vitamin D” and that’s just the beginning of what your bones really need to stay strong, prevent fractures, and protect against recurrence risk.
In this Halloween-inspired episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, Dr Megan pulls back the curtain on what truly supports bone health after cancer — and how you can rebuild strength, resilience, and confidence in your body again.
⚠️ This is a must-listen if:• You’ve had early menopause or are on hormone-blocking therapy• You’ve ever been told you have “osteopenia” or “osteoporosis” or want to prevent ever hearing that• You’re confused about whether you should be taking calcium• You want to know which nutrients (and habits!) really matter most
💊 In this episode, you’ll learn:• Why bone loss accelerates after cancer treatment — and what you can do to stop it• The spooky truth about calcium supplements (and how too much can backfire)• The full “bone-building team” beyond calcium: vitamin D, magnesium, K2, and protein• How strong bones can actually help protect against cancer metastasis• Conventional medication options worth discussing with your doctor• Real-life strategies for nourishing bones naturally and reducing fracture risk
💡 You’ll leave this episode with:• A clear, research-backed plan to strengthen your bones for the long term• Confidence in how to balance supplements safely and effectively• Practical steps to protect your bones for decades to come• The motivation to see bone health not as a chore, but as a form of empowerment after cancer
✨ Your bones are living, resilient tissue — and just like you, they can rebuild.Don’t let weak bones haunt you this season. Protect your strength, your posture, and your future.
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
 
✨ BEST FREE RESOURCES:
• The First 4 Steps To Staying Cancer-Free: HERE
• The Blood Test Clarity Guide For Cancer Survivors: HERE• Supporting Sexual Health Handout + Breast Cancer Thrivers Recipe Book https://flourishaftercancer.com/breastcancerrecipes
 
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.

17: Sexual Health And Hormone Therapy After Cancer

Don't forget to check out The Breast Cancer Freedom Workshop, happening November 18-20, 2025. Learn more here > The Breast Cancer Freedom Workshop: https://flourishaftercancer.com/breastcancerfreedomYou finish treatment. You’re ready to get back to “normal life,” but no one warned you that intimacy and sexual health might feel like an uphill battle. Painful intercourse, dryness, lack of desire, mood changes, and even body image shifts after surgery — they all add up to feeling like your body doesn’t fully belong to you anymore.
And yet, this part of healing is rarely talked about.
In this episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Ashley Chauvin, ND, to tackle the sexual health impacts of cancer treatment head-on — and, more importantly, what you can do about them.
⚠️ This is a must-listen if: • You’re navigating menopause after cancer (natural or medically induced) • You’ve struggled with painful sex, vaginal dryness, or low libido after treatment • You feel hesitant or fearful about using vaginal estrogen or hormone therapies • You want to feel more confident and connected in your body again
💊 In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why so many women enter menopause during cancer treatment — and how that affects long-term health • The ripple effects on heart, bone, and brain health (and why sexual health deserves equal focus) • Why painful intercourse, vaginal dryness, and low libido are so common — and evidence-based ways to address them • The role of vaginal moisturizers, vaginal estrogen, and testosterone — what’s safe, what’s not, and when to start • How to make treatment practical (different forms, less mess, better comfort) • What the current research says about vaginal estrogen in breast, cervical, endometrial, and ovarian cancers
💡 You’ll leave this episode with: • A science-backed understanding of sexual health options after cancer • Clarity on what’s safe for your diagnosis and subtype • Practical tools to reduce pain, dryness, and discomfort • Permission to reclaim intimacy as part of your healing — without guilt or fear
 
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 Ashley Chauvin, ND:
• Instagram: @ashleychauvin_nd
• Website: https://drashleychauvin.com/
 
✨ 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.

16: Three Keys To Losing Weight After Cancer

Don't forget to check out The Breast Cancer Freedom Workshop, happening November 18-20, 2025. Learn more here > The Breast Cancer Freedom Workshop: https://flourishaftercancer.com/breastcancerfreedomYou’ve finished treatment. You’re doing your best to eat well, move more, and get back to feeling like yourself again. But when you step on the scale, it feels stuck. The harder you try, the more frustrating it gets.
Here’s the truth: weight loss after cancer is a different journey than weight loss before cancer. Your body has been through surgeries, medications, hormone changes, and inflammation — and all of that changes the way weight comes off.
In this episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, I break down the 3 keys every survivor needs to know if they want to lose weight in a way that actually works after cancer treatment.
⚠️ This is a must-listen if: • You feel like the scale won’t budge no matter what you try • You’re confused by all the “rules” around what to eat for cancer recovery and prevention • You want strategies that support both healing and weight loss
💊 In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why patience and mindset are the #1 foundation for seeing results • How protein (and the right nutrition) supports metabolism, healing, and fat loss • Why strength training is the secret weapon most survivors overlook • The bonus “hidden keys” that make weight loss easier • How to measure progress in ways that go far beyond the number on the scale
💡 You’ll leave this episode with: • A clear, realistic outline for losing weight after cancer • Confidence that your body can change — even if it feels harder than before • Motivation to stop giving up at week 4 and finally see the results you’ve been working for
 
📚 Highlighted Research: • Rock CL, et al. (2020). Lifestyle interventions to reduce cancer risk and improve outcomes. CA Cancer J Clin. PubMed • Reeves MM, et al. (2021). Weight loss interventions in women with breast cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Obesity Reviews. PubMed • Ligibel JA, et al. (2019). Randomized trial of exercise after breast cancer treatment: impact on weight and health outcomes. J Clin Oncol. PubMed
 
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
 
✨ BEST FREE RESOURCES:
• The First 4 Steps To Staying Cancer-Free: HERE
• The Blood Test Clarity Guide For Cancer Survivors: HERE
• Supporting Sexual Health Handout + Breast Cancer Thrivers Recipe Book https://flourishaftercancer.com/breastcancerrecipes
 
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.
 

15: Coffee vs. Cancer: Can You Enjoy Your Cup Without Fear?

You sit down on a quiet morning, ready to start your day. It’s peaceful. Rare. The smell of freshly brewed coffee fills the air and for a moment, everything feels calm. You grab your favorite mug, take that first comforting sip… and then it hits you:
“Wait… is this coffee helping me, or could it actually be encouraging cancer?”
Coffee is the second most consumed beverage worldwide — but for survivors, it often feels like a guilty pleasure. Should you stop drinking it? Could it actually help? Or is it secretly fueling cancer risk?
In this episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, I break down the science, myths, and practical guidelines around coffee and cancer, so you can sip with clarity and confidence.
⚠️ This is a must-listen if: • You wonder if coffee increases or decreases cancer risk • You want to know what type of coffee is safest after cancer • You’ve heard conflicting advice and don’t know what to believe
💊 In this episode, you’ll learn: • Why research points toward coffee as protective, not harmful • The 4 “clean coffee” rules we teach our Flourishers • How caffeine sensitivity can affect your recovery — and what to try instead • Why antioxidants in coffee may play a role in reducing recurrence risk • What the strongest research says 
💡 You’ll leave this episode with: • A science-backed perspective on whether coffee belongs in your routine • Practical steps to make your coffee work for you, not against you • Confidence in enjoying your morning ritual without fear
📚 Highlighted Research: • Grosso G, et al. (2020). Coffee, tea, and caffeine consumption and health outcomes: umbrella review of meta-analyses of observational studies. BMJ. PubMed • Kennedy OJ, et al. (2020). Coffee consumption and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma: a meta-analysis. BMJ Open Gastroenterol. PubMed • Tanaka T, et al. (2024). Coffee and tea consumption and risk of cancer progression and mortality: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrients. PubMed
 
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.
 
✨ BEST FREE RESOURCES:
Don't forget to leave a review! As a thank-you for your kind review, here’s what you’ll receive: ✅ 60 Days of Meals: 30-day plans for both vegetarian & omnivore lifestyles — includes grocery lists, nutrition facts & delicious photos
How to Enter: 1️⃣ Leave a 5-star review on your favorite podcast app 2️⃣ DM me “5 STARS” + a screenshot of your review on Instagram (@MeganBernardND) 3️⃣ I’ll send your meal plan + you can enter into the draw!
 
ADDITIONAL FREE RESOURCES:
• The First 4 Steps To Staying Cancer-Free: HERE
• The Staying Cancer-Free Workshop: HERE
• The Blood Test Clarity Guide For Cancer Survivors: HERE
Let's Connect! 
Book a 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.