#209 Demystifying Diet and Cancer: Key Insights from Oncology Dietitian Krystle Zuniga

Welcome back to another empowering episode of The Nutrition and Life Podcast! This week, Lisa welcomes Dr. Krystle Zuniga—oncology dietitian, Ph.D., and nutrition myth-buster—to dive deep into the vital connection between nutrition, movement, and cancer prevention. Dr. Zuniga brings a science-backed, compassionate approach to fighting cancer at all stages: from prevention, through treatment, and into survivorship.

Together, Lisa and Krystle unpack some of the most persistent myths around “cancer-fighting” foods and supplements, strategies for building a diet that supports metabolic health, and the importance of joy and stress management along the journey. Whether you love practical food guidance, crave clarity about soy or dairy, or want to better understand nutrition during and post-cancer treatment, this episode is jam-packed with actionable insights for everyone!

Get ready to learn the latest evidence, clear up confusion about supplements, and discover how simple, positive dietary changes can add up to real cancer prevention. Let’s dive in!

Timestamp Overview:

• [00:00] – Introduction to Dr. Krystle Zuniga & Episode Preview
• [02:31] – Nutrition, Lifestyle, and the Reality of Cancer Risk
• [03:20] – Key Cancer Prevention Guidelines (What Works, What Doesn’t!)
• [06:00] – Supplements: Science and Surprising Risks
• [07:37] – Soy: Busting Myths and Revealing the Benefits
• [10:20] – Dairy, Calcium, and the Evidence on Cancer
• [12:03] – The Role of Vitamin D (Are You Getting Enough?)
• [13:46] – Practical Steps: Boosting Fiber & Building a Cancer-Protective Diet
• [15:58] – Movement, Exercise, and Physical Activity for Prevention
• [18:04] – Special Considerations for Cancer Survivors
• [19:46] – The Truth About Sugar, Sweet Tooths, and Cancer Growth
• [21:52] – Stress, Social Support, and Building Emotional Resilience
• [28:05] – Navigating Nutrition During Cancer Treatment
• [31:21] – Protein Needs: How to Balance Quality and Quantity
• [36:26] – Meal Timing Tips for Wellness & Recovery
• [39:43] – Spotlight on Alcohol: Why “Less Is Best” for Prevention
• [42:39] – Final Takeaways, Resources, & Where to Follow Dr. Zuniga

Follow Dr. Krystle Zuniga:

• Instagram: @cancernutritionhq
• Website: https://cancernutritionhq.com/

Listen Anywhere: This episode is available on all major podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts.

Stay Connected: Visit us at https://www.nutritioncoachingandlife.com/ for more resources and previous episodes. Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram for daily updates, wellness tips, and community support!

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