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Chewing The Fat Cancer Podcast

Chewing The Fat Cancer Podcast

Written by: Heather Cooan & Andrea Schaffer
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About this listen

Chewing the Fat is a podcast from Heather Cooan and Andrea Schaffer, two functional oncology nutrition consultants who thrive with cancer and autoimmunity. Both Andrea and Heather know firsthand the struggles that come with a catastrophic diagnosis such as cancer. They both also know how incredibly powerful taking your care into your own hands can be. In this podcast, these two friends and colleagues share real talk about what it takes to live, really live, despite such a dire diagnosis. Each episode will explore topics related to therapeutic nutritional interventions, self-empowerment, cancer treatments, the business of cancer, identifying your root cause contributors, and more, all through the experiential lenses of the patient, advocate, and oncology nutrition consultant.801670 Alternative & Complementary Medicine Hygiene & Healthy Living
Episodes
  • Just Diagnosed: First Steps After a Cancer Diagnosis
    Mar 30 2025

    Navigating a New Cancer Diagnosis: Taking Control and Finding Your Path In this episode of Chewing the Fat, oncology nutrition consultants Heather Cooan and Andrea Schaffer share crucial insights and personal experiences on how to handle a new cancer diagnosis. They discuss the importance of breathing, gathering detailed information, and seeking multiple opinions before rushing into treatment.

    The hosts emphasize assembling a diverse and supportive care team, understanding your values, and actively participating in your treatment decisions. They also provide practical advice on the role of nutrition and managing both immediate and long-term side effects. The episode concludes with personal anecdotes and comfort food ideas to warm up the chilly January weather.

    00:00 Introduction to Chewing the Fat Podcast

    00:26 Starting the Cancer Journey: Initial Reactions and Advice

    01:07 Taking Control: Breathing and Evaluating Options

    02:21 Personal Stories: Navigating the Medical System

    05:26 The Importance of Advocacy and Support

    11:13 Understanding Treatment Options and Asking Questions

    15:19 Patient Rights and Making Informed Decisions

    17:05 The Value of Multiple Opinions

    20:32 Holistic Approaches and Terrain Theory

    31:28 Building Your Support Team

    35:05 Nutrition and Diet Tips

    38:11 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

    40:28 Closing Remarks and Disclaimers

    Connect with Us:

    • Heather Cooan:
      • Website - https://heathercooan.com/
      • YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@HeatherCooan
      • Book an Intro Consultation - https://l.bttr.to/UfEqD
    • Andrea Schaffer:
      • Website - www.notjustbroccoli.com
      • Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/notjustbroccoli/
      • Book an Intro Consultation - https://l.bttr.to/fFc2t

    Cancer Resources:

    • https://www.drnasha.com/
    • https://mtih.org/

    Disclaimer: Although Heather and Andrea are oncology nutrition consultants, they are not your consultants. They have no consulting relationship with you and do not know your case. The information presented in the Chewing the Fat podcast is not to be considered a pointed recommendation, and you should not consider it a substitute for medical advice. We always recommend consulting with a licensed physician to advise on your particular situation and provide you with information about any nuances of your case. We do not guarantee any specific results.

    Affiliate Disclosure: Many outgoing links in the Chewing The Fat Cancer Podcast show notes are affiliate links. If you purchase a product after clicking an affiliate link, we receive a small percentage of the sale for referring you at no extra cost. We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

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    41 mins
  • How Cancer Improved Our Health
    Nov 18 2024

    How Cancer Transformed Our Lives:

    A Journey Towards Better Health In this episode of 'Chewing the Fat,' hosts Heather Cohen and Andrea Schaefer share their personal stories of how their cancer diagnoses became catalysts for positive health transformations. They discuss the sweeping changes they made to their diets, lifestyles, and mindsets, emphasizing the power of a metabolic approach to cancer.

    The conversation touches on the importance of diet adjustments, detoxification, stress management, and the adoption of healthier habits, providing encouragement and practical advice for those newly embarking on a similar journey. From giving up alcohol and embracing organic, ketogenic diets to prioritizing self-care and emotional healing, Heather and Andrea explore a range of strategies they used to reclaim their health.

    00:00 Introduction and Hosts

    00:22 Cancer as a Catalyst for Health

    01:10 Personal Stories of Diagnosis

    03:10 Lifestyle Changes and Challenges 08:28 Boundaries and Self-Care

    15:58 Alternative Treatments and Decisions

    25:16 Maintaining Health Post-Diagnosis

    29:37 Managing Expectations and Phases of Healing

    30:42 Dealing with Stress and Emotional Healing

    32:13 Foundational Changes in Health

    34:20 The Power of Diet and Lifestyle Changes

    37:13 Empowerment Through Metabolic Approach

    40:24 Practical Tips for Daily Health Management

    48:47 Detoxifying Your Environment

    54:00 Final Thoughts and Personal Favorites

    Mentioned In Today's Show:

    1. Dr. Chris Smith, MD - Barrow Neurological Second Opinion Program - https://www.barrowneuro.org/patient-care/your-journey/im-looking-for-a-second-opinion/

    Connect with Us:

    1. Heather Cooan:
    2. Website - https://heathercooan.com/
    3. YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@HeatherCooan
    4. Book an Intro Consultation - https://l.bttr.to/UfEqD
    5. Andrea Schaffer:
    6. Website - www.notjustbroccoli.com
    7. Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/notjustbroccoli/
    8. Book an Intro Consultation - https://l.bttr.to/fFc2t

    Cancer Resources:

    1. https://www.drnasha.com/
    2. https://mtih.org/

    Disclaimer: Although Heather and Andrea are oncology nutrition consultants, they are not your consultants. They have no consulting relationship with you and do not know your case. The information presented in the Chewing the Fat podcast is not to be considered a pointed recommendation, and you should not consider it a substitute for medical advice. We always recommend consulting with a licensed physician to advise on your particular situation and provide you with information about any nuances of your case. We do not guarantee any specific results.

    Affiliate Disclosure: Many outgoing links in the Chewing The Fat Cancer Podcast show notes are affiliate links. If you purchase a product after clicking an affiliate link, we receive a small percentage of the sale for referring you at no extra cost. We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

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    57 mins
  • Thriving Through The Holidays
    Nov 4 2024
    Mentioned In Today's Show: Recipes: 50+ Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Recipes - https://heathercooan.com/gluten-free-thanksgiving-recipes/ 44 Dairy-Free Keto Thanksgiving Recipes - https://heathercooan.com/dairy-free-keto-thanksgiving-recipes/ Dairy-Free Keto Pumpkin Pie - https://heathercooan.com/dairy-free-keto-pumpkin-pie/ Low-Carb Pumpkin Pie w/Nut Crust - https://heathercooan.com/low-carb-pumpkin-pie/ Ham Pickle Wheels - https://heathercooan.com/pickle-wheels/ Garlic Mashed Cauliflower - https://heathercooan.com/garlic-mashed-cauliflower/ Ingredients: Lakanto Maple Syrup - https://amzn.to/4fuH0Ur Hop Wtr - https://amzn.to/40yPK7N Hibiscus Tea - https://amzn.to/4egcVXA Show Notes: Navigating the Holidays on a Medical Diet: Tips and Strategies In this episode of 'Chewing the Fat,' hosts Andrea and Heather focus on maintaining dietary needs during the holiday season. They share personal stories, offer practical tips on planning ahead, communicate dietary restrictions at gatherings, and provide strategies for managing peer pressure. They discuss making healthy substitutions for traditional holiday foods, handling food-related gifts, navigating social dynamics, and ensuring self-care amidst holiday stress. Whether you're following a medical diet or need tips for healthier eating during the holidays, this episode offers valuable insights for a joyful and health-conscious holiday season. 00:00 Introduction to Chewing the Fat Podcast 00:16 Navigating Holiday Challenges 01:10 Personal Holiday Experiences 02:36 Planning Ahead for Social Events 04:15 Hosting Tips and Strategies 05:15 Eating Out and Restaurant Tips 07:17 Deconstructing a Typical Thanksgiving Meal 08:36 Making Healthier Holiday Sides 14:21 Holiday Desserts and Substitutions 23:44 Communicating Dietary Needs 25:52 Navigating Social Gatherings and Peer Pressure 26:50 Handling Holiday Food Temptations 31:40 Enjoying Alcohol-Free Celebrations 38:00 Dealing with Food Gifts and Office Treats 48:32 Managing Family Dynamics and Stress 53:59 Cherished Holiday Traditions and Final Thoughts Connect with Us: Heather Cooan - Soil to Soul Nutrition: Website - https://heathercooan.com/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@HeatherCooanBook an Intro Consultation - https://l.bttr.to/UfEqD Andrea Schaffer - Not Just Broccoli Oncology Nutrition: Website - www.notjustbroccoli.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/notjustbroccoli/Book an Intro Consultation - https://l.bttr.to/fFc2t Cancer Resources: https://www.drnasha.com/https://mtih.org/ Disclaimer: Although Heather and Andrea are oncology nutrition consultants, they are not your consultants. They have no consulting relationship with you and do not know your case. The information presented in the Chewing the Fat podcast is not to be considered a pointed recommendation, and you should not consider it a substitute for medical advice. We always recommend consulting with a licensed physician to advise on your particular situation and provide you with information about any nuances of your case. We do not guarantee any specific results. Affiliate Disclosure: Many outgoing links in the Chewing The Fat Cancer Podcast show notes are affiliate links. If you purchase a product after clicking an affiliate link, we receive a small percentage of the sale for referring you at no extra cost. We participate in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
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    59 mins
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