The Flourish After Cancer Podcast

Flourish After Cancer

Join me, Dr Megan Bernard, Naturopathic Doctor, and guest experts as we teach you how to not just survive, but to thrive past cancer. Using research-backed information with a holistic spin, I’ll dive deep into the best nutrition, supplements, lifestyle changes, and testing to help you to feel better faster after treatment and to reduce your risk of cancer coming back.

  1. 4D AGO

    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.

    35 min
  2. JAN 21

    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.

    39 min
  3. JAN 14

    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.

    34 min
  4. JAN 7

    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.

    36 min
  5. 12/10/2025

    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.

    32 min
  6. 12/03/2025

    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.

    42 min
  7. 11/26/2025

    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.

    39 min
  8. 11/19/2025

    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.

    32 min
5
out of 5
40 Ratings

About

Join me, Dr Megan Bernard, Naturopathic Doctor, and guest experts as we teach you how to not just survive, but to thrive past cancer. Using research-backed information with a holistic spin, I’ll dive deep into the best nutrition, supplements, lifestyle changes, and testing to help you to feel better faster after treatment and to reduce your risk of cancer coming back.

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