Today on Beating Cancer Daily, Saranne welcomes nutrition specialist and functional medicine expert Jacqui Bryan for a lively and informative conversation on incorporating plant-based protein into the cancer journey. Drawing humor from plant-based eating’s cultural quirks and sharing personal stories—including Saranne’s own Stage IV diagnosis and immediate dietary overhaul—the episode explores the medicinal power of plant foods, the challenges of meeting protein needs on a plant-forward diet, and practical habits for sustainable nutrition change. Jacqui explains how various plant-based foods can provide essential amino acids, why protein intake is critical during cancer treatment, and how to avoid common pitfalls such as overly processed options or soy misconceptions. Listeners are treated to lighthearted jokes, actionable advice, and encouragement for gradual, personalized progress toward healthier eating.
Jacqui Bryan is a certified nutrition specialist, registered nurse, whole health educator, and health coach. As a functional medicine practitioner, she brings decades of experience supporting cancer patients in making evidence-based dietary and lifestyle changes. Jacqui is known for blending science-backed recommendations with empathy and humor, empowering individuals to eat for optimal health during and after cancer treatment.
"Plant-based diets have so many wonderful medicinal benefits, right? They have antioxidants that help neutralize free radicals that can lead to diseases like cancer and heart disease and diabetes." – Jacqui Bryan
Today on Beating Cancer Daily:
· Making radical dietary changes in response to a cancer diagnosis is common, but a gradual approach may be less stressful and more sustainable
· Plant-based eating offers medicinal benefits, such as antioxidants that help protect against cancer and chronic disease
· Protein is essential during cancer treatment for tissue repair, hormone production, and neurotransmitter support
· Most plant proteins are not "complete," so consuming a variety of sources is necessary to obtain all essential amino acids
· Soy, tempeh, quinoa, and pumpkin seeds are examples of plant foods that offer complete proteins, but organic, non-GMO soy is recommended
· The recommended protein intake varies by individual, but adults should aim for about 0.8 to 1 gram per kilogram of body weight daily, spaced over meals
· Preparation methods matter; frying plant-based proteins can diminish their health benefits
· For individuals with estrogen-sensitive cancers, the source and quantity of soy should be discussed with healthcare providers, as research evolves on its impact
Guest Contact Information:
Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024 & 2025,
and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024
Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in over 130 countries on 7 continents and has over 365 original daily episodes hosted by Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg!
To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:
To write to Saranne or a guest:
https://www.comedycures.org/contact-8
To record a message to Saranne or a guest:
https://www.speakpipe.com/BCD_Comments_Suggestions
To sign up for the free Health Builder Series live on Zoom with Saranne and Jacqui, go to The ComedyCure
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