The Flourish After Cancer Podcast

6: The Worst Supplements For Cancer Survivors (and what to do instead)

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the sea of “anti-cancer” supplements out there—everyone seems to have a miracle cure. But the truth? Not every supplement is helpful. Some can even be harmful, especially if they’re not right for your body.
In this episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, I’m breaking down five popular supplements that might not be the best choice during or after cancer treatment—based on research, clinical insight, and what we’ve seen work (or backfire) with real clients.
 
⚠️ This is a must-listen if: • You’re taking supplements but aren’t sure what’s helping—or hurting. • You’ve heard glowing testimonials about Essiac tea or black seed oil and want to know the real evidence. • You’re ready to stop guessing and start choosing supplements based on your own health data.
 
🧬 In this episode, I'll cover:
• Why Popular Doesn’t Mean Safe or Effective – How some supplements, like glutamine and glutathione, may actually support cancer growth under the wrong circumstances.
• The Myth of “Cancer-Killing” Cures – Why apricot seeds and overhyped natural remedies could do more harm than good.
• The Role of Individualized Care – When it is appropriate to use certain supplements (like iron or glutathione)—and how to know if it’s right for you.
• Why You Can’t Out-Supplement the Root Causes – What to focus on instead: gut health, inflammation, contaminants, and your unique biochemistry.
• How to Feel More Confident in Your Choices – Stop chasing cancer cures, and start making supplement decisions based on science and your body’s real needs.
 
💡 You’ll walk away with: • Clarity on why some supplements might not belong in your protocol • A smarter, calmer way to evaluate what your body actually needs • An invitation to work with your body, not just throw pills at cancer
 
📚 This episode isn’t about fear—it’s about freedom. When you understand what’s really worth taking (and why), you can stop second-guessing and finally feel confident in your recovery plan.Link to S01|E02 on the BEST supplements: https://flourishaftercancer.com/blog/s01e02
🎓 PubMed References: • Glutamine and cancer growth – PubMed ID: 31263277 • Glutathione’s dual role in cancer – PubMed ID: 33435532 • Iron and cancer risk – PubMed ID: 34155733 • Amygdalin (from apricot seeds) toxicity – PubMed ID: 31831164
🎧 Listen in now, and don’t forget to leave a kind review and subscribe so you don’t miss upcoming episodes of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast.
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
✅ Giveaway Entry (DRAW ON AUGUST 15, 2025)! 🎁 Epigenetic Test + 1:1 Personalized Review ($500 value) 🎁 Supplement Bundle curated by me ($200 value) 🎁 Ear Seed Kit for sleep, calm & stress support ($30 value) (Giveaway open to U.S. & Canada only)
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!
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.
 
✨ BEST 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 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.
 

S01 E05 | How To Eat To Stay Cancer Free After Cancer

You’ve probably googled it: “What’s the best diet to prevent cancer coming back?”
And if you’re like most people, you were hit with a wave of conflicting advice:
Plant-based? Keto? Alkaline? Mediterranean?
 
In this episode, I’m breaking down why there’s no one-size-fits-all diet when it comes to staying cancer-free—and how to build a nutrition plan that actually supports your healing.
 
⚠️ This is a must-watch if:
• You’re feeling overwhelmed by food rules and unsure what really helps post-treatment.
• You want to eat in a way that makes your body stronger—not just avoid “bad” foods.
• You’re ready for science-backed clarity, not fear-driven food lists.
 
🌿 In this episode, I’ll guide you through the 4 keys of post-cancer nutrition:
1. Antioxidants & Phytonutrients – What they are, where to find them, and how they help stop cancer cells from growing, spreading, or even surviving.
 
2. Blood Sugar Balance – How glucose, insulin, and IGF-1 play major roles in cancer risk (and how to eat in a way that supports hormone and energy balance).
 
3. Macronutrient Demands – Why your body needs a new approach to protein, carbs, and fat after cancer treatment, especially if you’re healing from surgery, chemo, or radiation.
 
4. Food Quality – What “clean” eating really means after cancer (and how to focus on what actually matters when choosing organic, grass-fed, or processed foods).
 
🥦 Bonus: We’ll also touch on cancer-specific foods, why one study shouldn’t define your diet, and why you are more important than your diagnosis when it comes to nutrition.
 
📚 This isn’t about chasing the latest food trend. It’s about fueling your body in a way that creates an internal environment where cancer doesn’t want to grow.
 
💡 You’ll leave this episode with:
• A clear understanding of the nutritional strategies that reduce inflammation, support your immune system, and restore energy
• A better framework for making food choices without fear
• Simple, science-backed principles that honor your unique body
 
🎧 Listen in now, and don’t forget to leave a kind review and subscribe so you don’t miss upcoming episodes of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast.
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
✅ Giveaway Entry (DRAW ON AUGUST 15, 2025)! 🎁 Epigenetic Test + 1:1 Personalized Review ($500 value) 🎁 Supplement Bundle curated by me ($200 value) 🎁 Ear Seed Kit for sleep, calm & stress support ($30 value) (Giveaway open to U.S. & Canada only)
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!
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.
 
✨ BEST FREE RESOURCES:
• The First 4 Steps To Staying Cancer-Free: HERE
• The Staying Cancer-Free Workshop: HERE
• Tackling Cancer Prevention: The 6 Pillars of Defense: 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.

S01 E04 My 3 Favourite Functional Tests For Cancer Survivors

After cancer, most women are told to “just eat healthy and stay positive.”But what if there were powerful, data-driven tools that could show you exactly what your body needs to stay strong and reduce the risk of recurrence—without the guesswork?
🎧 In this episode of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast, I’m breaking down My Top 3 Favourite Functional Tests for Cancer Survivors—the ones my team and I return to again and again inside our practice to uncover what’s going on beneath the surface.
⚠️ This is a must-watch if:• You’re wondering why you still feel “off” even after finishing treatment• You’re tired of guessing with supplements, diets, and protocols• You’re curious about functional testing but don’t know where to start (or who to trust)• You're interested in how cancer may have started and want to dig deeper than what conventional protocols offer
💡 Here’s what we cover:
Why we NEVER jump straight into advanced testing→ Foundations come first: strength training, sleep, joy, digestion, and targeted bloodwork→ Without this? You’re building on sand.
What makes functional testing different→ These tests don’t diagnose disease — they show us how to optimize your internal environment→ It's not about killing cancer cells. It's about creating a body where cancer doesn’t want to grow.
🔬 The 3 Functional Tests I love (and exactly how we use them):
Epigenetic Test• Looks at how your genes are expressing — not just mutations• Guides us on how to support methylation, detox, inflammation & estrogen metabolism• Everyone in our program gets this test — it’s that impactful.
GI-MAP Stool Test• Gut health = immune health, hormone balance, detox, and inflammation• Crucial for hormone-related cancers and colorectal cancer survivors• Reveals things like estrogen recirculation, gut permeability, and immune suppression.
HTMA (Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis)• Shows mineral status and heavy metal burden• Offers clues into adrenal function, thyroid, stress load, and detox ability• Inexpensive, non-invasive, and so helpful once your foundations are strong.
🚫 We also dive into:• The most common mistakes people make with testing (and how to avoid wasting money)• Why conventional doctors may dismiss these tests — and why it’s not about science, but scope
🧭 Bottom line:We don’t use these tests to treat disease.We use them to build a stronger, more resilient body—one that’s deeply nourished, balanced, and better able to defend itself.
🎧 Listen in now, and don’t forget to leave a kind review and subscribe so you don’t miss upcoming episodes of The Flourish After Cancer Podcast.
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
✅ Giveaway Entry (DRAW ON AUGUST 15, 2025)! 🎁 Epigenetic Test + 1:1 Personalized Review ($500 value) 🎁 Supplement Bundle curated by me ($200 value) 🎁 Ear Seed Kit for sleep, calm & stress support ($30 value) (Giveaway open to U.S. & Canada only)
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!
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.
 
✨ BEST FREE RESOURCES:
• The First 4 Steps To Staying Cancer-Free: HERE
• The Staying Cancer-Free Workshop: HERE
• Tackling Cancer Prevention: The 6 Pillars of Defense: 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.

3: The Important Blood Work Your Oncologist Isn't Ordering

S01 E03 | The Important Blood Work Your Oncologist Isn't Ordering
Your podcast review helps another woman find clarity, confidence, and support when she needs it most. 
As a thank-you for your 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
✅ Giveaway Entry (DRAW ON AUGUST 15, 2025)! 🎁 Epigenetic Test + 1:1 Personalized Review ($500 value) 🎁 Supplement Bundle curated by me ($200 value) 🎁 Ear Seed Kit for sleep, calm & stress support ($30 value) (Giveaway open to U.S. & Canada only)
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!
 
You’re doing everything you can to stay healthy after cancer… but what if your standard labs aren’t telling the full story?
In this episode, I’m breaking down the critical blood tests your oncologist probably isn’t running — but that can make a huge difference in your recovery and long-term health.
⚠️ This is a must-watch if:•  You’ve finished cancer treatment and feel stuck with vague advice like “just eat healthy.”•  You want a clearer picture of what’s really going on inside your body.•  You’re ready to stop guessing and start using data to lower your recurrence risk.
🩸 We’ll cover the specific blood markers I use with clients inside our post-cancer program — including:1. IGF-1 – Why too much of this growth factor can increase recurrence risk (and how to lower it)2. Blood sugar + insulin – What your HOMA-IR tells you and why balanced glucose is way more than a diabetes issue3. Cholesterol – How chemo and hormone therapy can affect your heart and what advanced markers to test4. Inflammation markers – Like hsCRP, ferritin, and the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio, and what they tell us about healing5. Vitamin D – The actual levels to aim for when it comes to cancer support (hint: “normal” might not be optimal)
📊 When we have the right data, we can build a tailored food, supplement, and lifestyle plan to support your healing and help your body stay cancer-free.
This isn’t guesswork. This is proactive, research-backed care — so you can stop living in fear and start living fully. 🌱
✨ BEST FREE RESOURCES:•  The Staying Cancer-Free Workshop: https://flourishaftercancer.com/WorkshopSignUp•  My Blood Work Facts Handout: https://flourishaftercancer.com/BloodWorkHandout•  How To Stay Cancer-Free: Tackling Cancer Stem Cells: https://flourishaftercancer.com/blog/how-to-stay-cancer-free-tacking-cancer-stem-cells  •  Tackling Cancer Prevention: The 6 Pillars of Defense: https://flourishaftercancer.com/blog/tackling-cancer-prevention-the-6-pillars-of-defense
Let's Connect! Book a free Roadmap Call and let’s chat about how we can help: https://flourishaftercancer.com/Apply 
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.

S01 E02 | The Best Supplements To Block Cancer Recurrence

S01 E02 | The BEST Supplements To Block Cancer
Your podcast review helps another woman find clarity, confidence, and support when she needs it most. 
As a thank-you for your 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
✅ Giveaway Entry (DRAW ON AUGUST 15, 2025)! 🎁 Epigenetic Test + 1:1 Personalized Review ($500 value) 🎁 Supplement Bundle curated by me ($200 value) 🎁 Ear Seed Kit for sleep, calm & stress support ($30 value) (Giveaway open to U.S. & Canada only)
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!
 
This episode is for anyone who’s ever filled a supplement cart online, second-guessed it, and thought, “Is this even doing anything?” You’ll walk away with clarity and next steps to feel better and reduce recurrence risk.
Because in today’s episode, I'm talking all about supplements—specifically, which ones are actually worth taking to help lower your risk of cancer coming back. If you’ve finished or nearly finished treatment and feel overwhelmed by supplement options, this episode will help you cut through the confusion.
I’ll break down what the research really says (and doesn’t say), why most supplements aren’t studied well, and how to use them strategically—not out of fear. 
🔍  We’ll cover five key areas to support with supplements and the ones my team and I commonly recommend for: 1. Inflammation2. Cancer stem cells3. Methylation4. Hormone balance5. Metabolic health
Plus, I’ll walk you through the most common supplement mistakes I see and how to build a smart, evidence-informed approach to long-term recovery.
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.
✨ BEST FREE RESOURCES:•  The Staying Cancer-Free Workshop: https://flourishaftercancer.com/WorkshopSignUp•  How To Stay Cancer-Free: Tackling Cancer Stem Cells: https://flourishaftercancer.com/blog/how-to-stay-cancer-free-tacking-cancer-stem-cells  •  Tackling Cancer Prevention: The 6 Pillars of Defense: https://flourishaftercancer.com/blog/tackling-cancer-prevention-the-6-pillars-of-defense
Let's Connect! Book a free Roadmap Call and let’s chat about how we can help: https://flourishaftercancer.com/Apply
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.

S01 E01 | What No One Told You About Life After Cancer

S01 E01 | What No One Told You About Life After Cancer - The 3 Phases of Recurrence Prevention
Your podcast review helps another woman find clarity, confidence, and support when she needs it most. 
As a thank-you for your 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
✅ Giveaway Entry (DRAW ON AUGUST 15, 2025)! 🎁 Epigenetic Test + 1:1 Personalized Review ($500 value) 🎁 Supplement Bundle curated by me ($200 value) 🎁 Ear Seed Kit for sleep, calm & stress support ($30 value) (Giveaway open to U.S. & Canada only)
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!
 
In this episode, I’m talking openly and honestly about what happens after treatment — physically, emotionally, and mentally — and why support shouldn’t end just because active treatment is over.
Whether you're feeling exhausted, unsure how to eat, or scared your cancer might come back, this episode gives you a practical and empowering roadmap forward using my 3 Phases of Cancer Recurrence Prevention:
✨ Restore – Rebuild nutrient stores, strength, and energy after treatment🧹 Remove – Support detox pathways and eliminate built-up waste and environmental exposures🛡 Protect – Strengthen your immune system and reduce your future risk
You’ll also learn why “going back to normal” isn’t the goal — and how to rebuild something even better.
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.
✨ BEST FREE RESOURCES:•  The Staying Cancer-Free Workshop: https://flourishaftercancer.com/WorkshopSignUp•  How To Stay Cancer-Free: Tackling Cancer Stem Cells: https://flourishaftercancer.com/blog/how-to-stay-cancer-free-tacking-cancer-stem-cells  •  Tackling Cancer Prevention: The 6 Pillars of Defense: https://flourishaftercancer.com/blog/tackling-cancer-prevention-the-6-pillars-of-defense•  The First 4 Steps To Staying Cancer-Free: https://flourishaftercancer.com/watchmasterclass
Let's Connect! Book a free Roadmap Call and let’s chat about how we can help: https://flourishaftercancer.com/Apply
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.

The Flourish After Cancer Podcast Trailer

✨ Welcome to The Flourish After Cancer Podcast ✨ Ready to let go of fear and live your best life after cancer? You're in the right place! We’re dedicated to helping women thrive after cancer with research-backed, whole-body support to feel great and reduce recurrence risk. Here’s what you can expect:💙 Expert insights on root cancer contributors, from hormones to epigenetics. 💙 Nutrition and supplements to support healing and block cancer-promoting inflammation. 💙 Testing beyond the standard CBC and liver/kidney panel. 💙 Clean living tips to reduce environmental contaminants. You deserve more than “watch and wait.” You deserve clarity, confidence, and a comprehensive plan that helps you feel amazing and protect your future. I’m Dr Megan Bernard, Naturopathic Doctor and founder of The Roadmap to Recovery. Alongside my expert team, we’ve helped thousands of women flourish after cancer with research-backed nutrition and functional medicine strategies. ⭐ Follow for weekly support.