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: @MeganBernardND
Facebook: @MeganBernardND
Website: 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.