Cancer Nutrition HQ

 What is chemo brain? In this episode, oncology dietitian Dr. Krystle Zuniga explains cancer-related cognitive impairment (CRCI), why it happens after cancer, and what current research says about exercise, nutrition, sleep, stress, and other strategies that may help support cognitive function.  Send us Fan Mail Follow me on Instagram @cancernutritionhq www.cancernutritionhq.com

June is National Cancer Survivors Month, a time to recognize the millions of people living with and beyond a cancer diagnosis. In this episode, Dr. Krystle Zuniga discusses what survivorship means, common challenges survivors may face after a cancer diagnosis, and why nutrition should be part of whole-person survivorship care. We’ll talk about fatigue, body changes, long-term side effects, chronic...

 Meeting with a dietitian and not sure what to expect? Or maybe you’ve had an experience that didn’t feel helpful. In this episode, we discuss why oncology nutrition appointments can sometimes fall short and how to make the most of your time with a dietitian. Plus, practical tips to help you prepare for your next visit and get the support you actually need.  Send us Fan Mail Follow me on Instagram...

Do you find yourself saying, "I know I should eat, but I just don’t want to"? If eating has become another exhausting task on your to-do list, you aren't alone. This episode explores the science behind low appetite (cancer-related anorexia) and practical strategies to stay nourished when food feels like a chore. In this episode, we discuss: Why cancer and cancer treatment turn down...

I break down a new large clinical trial that examined weight loss outcomes in women with stage II–III breast cancer after treatment. We explore what the year-long lifestyle intervention included, how much weight participants lost, and why average numbers don’t tell the full story. I discuss differences in weight loss by menopausal status and race, common frustrations survivors experience, and wher...

This episode covers the release of the 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans. I walk through how the Dietary Guidelines are traditionally developed, including the role of scientific experts, public comment, and the translation of evidence into policy. I then share my concerns about changes in transparency and scientific rigor in this edition, highlight specific contradictions within the guide...

 Alcohol's connection to cancer is often misunderstood. This episode takes a look at how alcohol affects the body, why even moderate drinking can matter, and addresses common questions and misconceptions. It ends with practical ways to reflect on your habits and make choices that support your health. Download 15 Free Mocktail Recipes Additional Resources 2025 U.S. Surgeon General's Advis...

Before you set your New Year’s resolutions, listen to this episode.  This episode walks you step-by-step through how to set realistic, habit-based health goals that fit into real life, especially for cancer survivors navigating  side effects.  You’ll learn why motivation isn’t a reliable strategy, how outcome-focused goals  can actually undermine progress, and what cancer prevention research shows...

In this episode, we explain how the immune system works, why survivors may be immunocompromised, and whether "immune-boosting" supplements actually help.  Learn the important role nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, vitamin A, and protein play in supporting immune cells. There are also several practical tips for how to support immune function without falling for marketing hype.  F...

"Remember to eat your fruits and veggies” is how I end almost every episode, but there’s a reason I keep coming back to this message. In this episode, I break down why fruits and vegetables matter for both cancer prevention and survivorship. I talk about phytochemicals, why variety matters, and why supplements can’t replace whole foods. I also discuss a recent study  in that found meaningful...

Worried about whether certain foods or supplements can interfere with your endocrine therapy? You’re not alone. This episode breaks down how tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors work, how the liver metabolizes them, and which foods or supplements you actually need to avoid. (Hint: It’s a short list!) This episode can help you feel more confident and informed as you navigate endocrine therapy.  Episo...

The holidays can be joyful, but they can also bring stress, unpredictable schedules, food pressures, and long travel days that throw off routines. In this episode, I’m checking in and sharing practical strategies to help cancer survivors feel prepared and supported during this season. Whether you’re traveling, hosting, or heading to a gathering where the food or conversations feel overwhelming, th...

Lung cancer remains the leading cause of cancer death in both men and women in the United States. Despite this, stigma and misunderstanding persist. In honor of Lung Cancer Awareness Month, this episode features a conversation with Dr. Singhi, a medical oncologist who specializes in diagnosing and treating lung cancer. We discuss symptoms that are often missed, who should be screened, gaps in awar...

Nutrition research can be confusing, especially when the headlines sound too good (or too scary) to be true. This episode guides you through the strengths and limitations of different research study designs so you can better understand the evidence and avoid being misled by clickbait headlines.  Send us Fan Mail Follow me on Instagram @cancernutritionhq www.cancernutritionhq.com

To "Know More and Fear Less" you'll need to develop an important skill: recognizing misinformation in nutrition and cancer. From oversimplified promises to fear-based messaging and questionable credentials, this episode reviews common red flags that often signal misleading claims. You'll leave this episode empowered, able to navigate nutrition advice with confidence and avoid f...

Vegan, vegetarian, plant-based, or somewhere in between—what’s best when it comes to cancer nutrition? Whether you’re curious about going plant-based or just want clarity on how to eat during and after cancer, this episode will help you cut through the myths and focus on what really matters. Send us Fan Mail Follow me on Instagram @cancernutritionhq www.cancernutritionhq.com

The alkaline diet claims you can change your body’s pH to prevent and even stop cancer, but is that even possible? This episode explains where this idea came from, the science of pH and cancer, and why the real benefits of an alkaline diet have nothing to do with changing your body’s pH. Send us Fan Mail Follow me on Instagram @cancernutritionhq www.cancernutritionhq.com

Soy has long been a source of confusion and fear for people diagnosed with breast cancer, but does it really fuel cancer growth?  This episode dives in to the history of the controversy, and what current research says about soy’s role in cancer risk and recurrence. You’ll also get practical tips for incorporating soy into your diet. Check out these free Soy Recipes References Postdiagnosis body fa...

This episode tackles the pervasive myth that you can starve cancer by eliminating sugar from your diet. Explore the complexities of cancer metabolism and learn why simply cutting out sugar isn't the answer.  ------------------------ Farvid MS, Barnett JB, Spence ND, Rosner BA, Holmes MD. Types of carbohydrate intake and breast cancer survival. Eur J Nutr. 2021 Dec;60(8):4565-4577.  Send us Fa...

This episode of Cancer Nutrition HQ   highlights the importance of focusing on overall dietary patterns, rather than fixating on individual foods, and shares evidence linking healthy eating habits after a cancer diagnosis to improved survival outcomes. The episode provides practical tips for building a sustainable, nourishing approach to eating.  ------------------------------- AICR's New Ame...

In the first episode of Cancer Nutrition HQ, host Krystle Zuniga introduces the podcast's mission to empower cancer survivors and caregivers with evidence-based nutritional information. She discusses the prevalence of misinformation surrounding cancer diets and emphasizes the importance of understanding the role of nutrition in supporting health during cancer treatment. Krystle shares her pro...