As autumn and winter bring longer nights and colder days, Saranne welcomes functional medicine expert Jacqui Bryan to Beating Cancer Daily for an insightful look at how shifting seasons can affect mood, particularly for cancer patients and caregivers. The discussion highlights the differences between typical winter blues and the more intense Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), exploring how biological rhythms, lifestyle choices, and nutrition all play a part in emotional well-being during the darker months. Saranne and Jacqui offer practical strategies, from simple daily routines to laughter therapy and dietary adjustments, empowering listeners to take proactive steps for maintaining mental health, especially when facing cancer-related stresses.
Jacqui Bryan is a certified nutrition specialist, whole health educator, certified health coach, and registered nurse focused on functional medicine. She is known for her holistic approach, guiding individuals toward better health through nutrition, lifestyle coaching, and practical support for physical and emotional wellness.
"Self-care is not selfish. It's that old, you know, you're on the airplane and they say, put the oxygen mask on yourself first and then put it on your loved one next." ~Jacqui Bryan
Today on Beating Cancer Daily:
· Shorter, darker days can trigger mood changes, with Seasonal Affective Disorder being more severe than general winter blues
· SAD typically begins in late fall or winter and lasts several months, with symptoms including low mood, fatigue, cravings for carbohydrates, oversleeping, and withdrawal from social activities
· Women, young adults, and people living farther from the equator are at greater risk for experiencing SAD
· Tracking mood, energy, cravings, and sleep in a journal can help with early diagnosis and better conversations with providers
· It is essential to distinguish between SAD and other conditions such as hypothyroidism, anemia, vitamin D deficiency, or medication effects
· Common treatments include bright light therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and sometimes medication, though these must be carefully selected for those with cancer or bipolar diagnoses
· Supportive nutrition includes probiotics, prebiotics, omega-3s, tryptophan-rich foods, and vitamin D, while processed foods and alcohol should be reduced to support stable mood
· Cancer patients and caregivers face particular risks for SAD and should maintain open communication with oncology teams while pursuing social connection, laughter, and mindful self-care
Contact Jacqui:
Jacqui Bryan
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 150 countries across 7 continents
and features over 420+ original daily episodes hosted by
Stage IV survivor Saranne Rothberg.
To learn more about Host Saranne Rothberg and The ComedyCures Foundation:
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Have a blessed day! Saranne
