The Truth About... Episodes

In this episode, we dive deep into surgical support for cancer patients and share all the insider intel you might be missing out on. From what not to take before surgery (blood clotting is essential!) to the importance of inflammation in the healing process (yes, inflammation is actually your friend after surgery!), we cover it all. Discover key nutrients, physical and occupational therapy recommendations, and even some m...

Dr. Tina Kaczor and Dr. Leah Sherman discuss new diagnostic tools that can tell benign tumors from cancer in the pancreas, highlight the growing concerns over microplastics, and explore the link between ultra-processed foods and early colorectal cancer. They also highlight some amazing inventions by teenagers, like a melanoma-detection app and a skin-cancer-reducing soap. Last, they cover the benefits of hypnosis before breast cancer surgery and the health impact of commonly used chemicals in dr...

What if something as simple as a morning versus an afternoon infusion determined whether your immune treatment works? A recent study of over 1600 patients shows that time of day can profoundly affect whether you derive benefit (ie, “respond to treatment”)! This episode also explores how time-restricted eating can affect your fatigue (called “chrono-nutrition”) during and after treatment. Join Drs. Tina Kaczor and Leah Sherman as they bring you the latest evidence and tell you how you can use you...

The diagnosis of cancer is rising in young adults (under 45 years old). This episode of The Cancer Pod delves into potential reasons behind this trend, including epigenetics, environmental exposures, microbiome differences, and lifestyle factors. Tina and Leah discuss the types of cancers most commonly seen in younger adults, symptoms to watch for, and the significance of advocating for timely and accurate diagnoses. And, get ready for the next episode on cancer fakes and frauds! Links we men...

In 2024, a study sparked debate among wellness influencers, raising concerns about seed oils and their potential link to rising colorectal cancer rates in young adults. But is there any truth to these claims? In this episode, we break down the research and uncover the real health effects of seed oils. What are seed oils, and do they contain harmful compounds? Are some types better than others? Plus, we explore the role of ultra-processed foods in overall health—did you know there’s a key differe...

Did you know it takes an Act of Congress to change the warning label on alcohol? It’s true! But even more crucial: how much alcohol does it take to increase your cancer risk? In this episode, Tina and Leah dive into the connection between alcohol and cancer, exploring why the Surgeon General is pushing for updated warning labels. Whether you’re sticking with your current habits or considering a mindful approach to drinking, this episode delivers eye-opening insights that might make you think twi...

Gratitude is good for you, but we know it can sometimes be challenging too. Leah discusses the wide variety of responses from our community to a survey asking, “Do you practice gratitude? If so, how?" Then, we look at the science, which shows exactly what improves by practicing gratitude. Spoiler: Some studies have proven measurable physical benefits, including living longer! So, thank you for reading this far. Now, please hit that play button! Gratitude Defined and more... (from The Greater Go...

There are many cancer-relevant headlines, and Tina and Leah cherry-picked a few you need to hear. Is using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to help you determine a treatment plan a good idea? You can get answers from ChatGPT, but are they reliable? There are a few considerations, like source verification, addressing ethical considerations, and who you should (and should not trust to handle your medical information. Tina and Leah also discuss a recent study that found benzene in a third of available ...

Move over "sitting" there's a "new smoking" in town. In this episode, Tina and Leah discuss the latest data on pesticides and cancer risk. One recent study showed the numbers look just as bad (and yes, society's denial of them just as strong) as the data on smoking and cancer risk from decades ago. The doctors share practical tips for minimizing exposure and suggest ways to minimize the effects of pesticide exposures that are nearly inevitable. Hey, we know this topic can be a bummer and a ma...

The news cycle is buzzing with how Elle MacPherson refused conventional treatment and cured herself of breast cancer naturally. While the media spins and influencers speculate, Tina and Leah talk about what they gleaned from a recent interview with Elle MacPherson on 60 Minutes Australia. They delve into the controversies surrounding natural versus conventional cancer treatments, including her decisions for self-care. The doctors also discuss the specifics of her diagnosis and the standard of ca...

Tina and Leah take on some TikTok misconceptions, including influencers' anti-sunscreen rants, head-on (wearing a wide-brimmed hat, of course). The sun is good. The sun is bad. The sun will give you cancer, no wait, it will protect you from cancers. As is often the case, the truth is somewhere in the middle. Tune in for a factual discussion about sun exposure, tanning, and the difference between UVA and UVB rays on your skin. We talk sunscreens, sun blockers, and why there is so much da...

Microplastics are not just around us, they are in us. These microscopic particles of plastic may be wreaking havoc on our health in many ways, and worsening cancer risk and prognosis is one of them. In this episode, Tina and Leah discuss microplastics and their potential link to cancer, particularly colorectal cancer. They explore sources of microplastics, from single-use plastic bottles to synthetic clothing, and highlight steps you can take to reduce your exposure. They also discuss the diffic...

Everyone has heard a myth or two about cancer (hello, sugar!) The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) published eight "Myths and Facts About Cancer." Some of the myths they brought up were ones we've heard from patients, others...kind of cringey. We thought we should tackle them one by one. Not surprisingly, there is often a vein of truth that keeps these so-called myths alive. Tina and Leah have decades of experience as naturopathic physicians and have sifted through the data, so you ...

Does a higher BMI sometimes lead to better outcomes? Is BMI what we should be using to measure obesity? Whether you are considered obese, overweight, normal weight, or underweight... your BMI can be misleading. Tina & Leah delve into the details and give you some advice to achieve the ultimate goal: living your best life as long as you possibly can! Tell us your thoughts on this episode! Support the show Become a member of The Cancer Pod Community! Gain access to live Q&As, exclusive content, a...

Some things supporting wellness are a great idea — if you're not in the middle of cancer treatment! Tina and Leah talk about some good-for-you, healthy, and usually risk-free things you should avoid while getting active treatment. Avoiding anything that may undermine your treatment success is a top priority, so don't miss this one! Tell us your thoughts on this episode! Support the show Become a member of The Cancer Pod Community! Gain access to live Q&As, exclusive content, and s...

Drug repurposing is using a drug previously approved for one condition to treat an entirely different condition (like cancer). In cancer care, repurposed drugs are usually gentler than FDA-approved cancer treatments. They include common drugs for diabetes, high blood pressure, infections, and more. Tina & Leah talk about who should consider this strategy and some of the most commonly used repurposed drugs. Repurposing Drugs in Oncology- ReDo Project link The Anticancer Fund Care Oncology Clinic...

Detox programs are popping up everywhere, but what’s the best approach? Do you really need to chug charcoal?! Tina & Leah talk about what detox means from their perspectives. And while they agree on most of it, they each bring a different perspective on how detoxification, elimination, and cleansing should be defined. Tune in to learn more! Harvard University takes on Detox Objective Assessment of an Ionic Footbath (IonCleanse) Tim Horton’s versus Tony Horton Info on the Master Cleanse (a clean...

High blood sugar (glucose) isn't desirable for a host of reasons, but is "feeding cancer" one of them? The truth is bittersweet and takes a little more clarification than a simple "yes" or "no." Tina & Leah discuss the origin-story of "sugar feeds cancer," tell you whether it's valid or not and give you some tips & tricks on how to have your cake and eat it too! High blood sugar and cancer progression, a review The original Warburg Effect paper (1927) The “Reverse Warbur...

Does milk really “do a body good?” Great marketing, but what’s the truth? Tina & Leah tackle this tough question as they sift through the data on dairy. As always, they stick to the facts. (No dogma allowed.) Should you indulge or abstain? Listen in to find out! How humans have evolved to digest milk. Harvard’s Healthy eating plate has no dairy on it What is Recombinant Bovine Growth Hormone (RBGH)? Guide to RBGH-free dairy products Breast cancer risk and calcium Plant-based diet + Exercise for ...

Does fasting during treatment make it work better? Does overnight fasting stave off recurrence? How does fasting affect cancer in general? Tina & Leah talk about the benefits (and risks!) of limiting food intake during and after cancer treatment. Links we mentioned on this episode and other cool stuff: Fasting alongside neoadjuvant chemotherapy in those with breast cancer (2013) Clinical trial on fasting during chemo, currently enrolling those with breast cancer (currently recruiting) Review ...

Can anything really be a “cure-all?” What a concept! There are things this 100-year-old herbal formula can do, and there are things it can't. Tina & Leah chat facts about Essiac & Flor-Essence teas. Herbal medicine, plant medicine, botanical medicine, whatever you like to call it, there’s evidence for its use dating back thousands of years. We love using medicinal plants for ourselves and our patients. The promise of a cure for cancer, however, needs to be looked at closely. Is it possible? Cou...

The terms “antioxidants” and “free radicals”- what do they mean exactly? Are antioxidants safe to take as a supplement? Tina & Leah tell you the truth, even if it is inconvenient. (Don’t blame the messengers!) Antioxidants only do good, right? The theory is that antioxidants prevent cancer by limiting damage in and around our cells. Truth: Foods high in antioxidant compounds are associated with less cancer (think plants!). BUT, does this mean that antioxidant supplements are a good idea? The tr...

Ketogenic diets are all the rage these days, but what is ketosis? Should you try to achieve it? If so, how? Tina & Leah talk facts about the ketogenic diet, what it is and what it isn’t. What does it mean to be in a state of ketosis? And, most importantly, does the ketogenic diet have anti-cancer effects? There are studies out there on the ketogenic diet in people with cancer, and we stick close to the data in these studies. There is plenty of theory around why a ketogenic diet should be usefu...

The third episode in the Good for You? Bad for You? pod is here, and it's about soy. Soy was a conundrum in the nutrition and the integrative medicine realm for many years—is it helping or harming cancer patients? Tina helps clear up some of the confusion and Leah is the Debbie Downer in this podcast. Remember to subscribe, rate, and review The Cancer Pod, and hang tight for now, the next pod will be released in two weeks. Tell us your thoughts on this episode! Support the show Become a membe...