Today on Beating Cancer Daily, Saranne shares her vibrant experiences from Costa Rica’s blue zone, reflecting on personal resilience and joy after years in the “chemo chair.” She is joined by her dear friend Jackie Bryan, a functional medicine expert, to unlock the science and tradition behind teas, especially herbal and spice varieties. Their playful banter is infused with practical wisdom as they discuss teas for relaxation, digestion, and mental wellness, plus the crucial role of high-quality ingredients, flavor profiles from chamomile to lemon verbena, and science-backed guidance for cancer survivors, especially those managing life after Stage IV cancer treatment. Together, they blend humor, heartfelt stories, and actionable tips for building nourishing rituals, no matter where you are in your recovery journey.
Jackie Bryan is a whole health educator, certified health coach, registered nurse, and certified nutrition specialist with a passion for functional medicine. With her expert knowledge and caring approach, Jackie empowers people to make lasting change through practical strategies that connect mind, body, and spirit. Her evidence-based insights on herbal medicine, nutrition, and wellness have supported countless cancer survivors and those seeking better health.
“Herbs actually support the calming pathways of your nervous system. They provide us with antioxidants, anti-inflammatory plant compounds." ~Jacqui Bryan
Today on Beating Cancer Daily:
· Saranne and Jackie highlight Costa Rica's health traditions and Blue Zone benefits, connecting travel and longevity with a mindset post–Stage IV cancer.
· Teas, especially herbal and spice varieties, are shown to support relaxation, digestion, sleep, and emotional wellness through centuries-old traditions and modern research.
· Herbs like chamomile, lavender, and lemon balm have growing clinical evidence for easing mood and anxiety; peppermint and ginger are especially helpful for digestion.
· The importance of sourcing high-quality, organic, loose-leaf teas to avoid pesticides and microplastics is emphasized for cancer survivors.
· Certain teas and herbs (such as hibiscus and lemon verbena) can pose risks for those with low blood pressure or kidney issues, and sensitivities/allergies should always be considered.
· Tea blends can be customized for personal goals, from calming nerves to improving blood sugar, with practical recipes and preparation instructions.
· Honey can be a natural sweetener, but it is not ideal in active cancer treatment due to immune risks; balancing sweeteners with protein or fiber is advised for blood sugar health.
· New rituals around tea can promote resilience, pleasure, and a return to health after cancer, making everyday choices feel empowering and joyful.
2025 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series Finalist
Ranked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024 & 2025,
and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024 to 2025.
Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in 140 countries across 7 continents and features over 400 original daily episodes hosted by
Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg.
To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:
https://www.comedycures.org/
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 ComedyCures Foundation's homepage:
https://www.comedycures.org/
Please support the creation of more original episodes of Beating Cancer Daily and other free ComedyCures Foundation programs with a tax-deductible contribution:
http://bit.ly/ComedyCuresDonate
THANK YOU! Please tell a friend whom we may help, and please support us with a beautiful review.
Have a blessed day! Saranne
Apr 6 202611 mins