The Real Health Podcast

Nutrition After Cancer Care: Recovery, Survivorship, and Long-Term Wellness

“I mean, I believe so strongly that food, what we eat, matters.” —Jen Nolan In this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Dr. Michelle Niesley is joind by Jen Nolan, owner of Remission Nutrition and nutrition advisor at Riordan Clinic, to explore nutrition recomendations and the differences between what is recommended during active treatment and after treatment. 👉 Learn more about Jen Nolan and Remission Nutrition [https://www.remissionnutrition.com/] 👉 Learn more about Dr. Michelle Niesley [https://riordanclinic.org/staff/michelle-niesley-nd-ms-fabno/] 👉 Learn more about becoming a co-learner at Riordan Clinic [https://riordanclinic.org/become-a-patient/] Episode links and resources Learn more about Riordan Clinic [https://riordanclinic.org] Explore integrative health services [https://riordanclinic.org/services/] Listen/watch more Real Health Podcast episodes [https://realhealthpodcast.org] Topics we explore in this episode include food as medicine, active treatment, post treatment, stress management, intermitant fasting, cancer support, survivorship, emotional resilience, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, healing, Riordan Clinic, Real Health Podcast

From Survival to Thriving in the Nervous System

“We survive in danger, but we thrive in safety.” —Jen Nolan The nervous system shapes how the body responds to stress, healing, and everyday life, often without us realizing it. In this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Dr. Kirsten West is joined by Jen Nolan, owner of Remission Nutrition and nutrition advisor at Riordan Clinic, to explore how the nervous system influences the healing process, especially for those navigating cancer and life after treatment. Jen shares how patterns of chronic stress, fear, and “scanxiety” can keep the body in a constant state of fight or flight. Over time, this can influence inflammation, immune function, sleep, and the body’s ability to adapt. Dr. West walks through the physiology behind these responses, including the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. The conversation also introduces polyvagal theory, offering a clearer picture of how the body moves between states of stress, safety, and shutdown. You’ll hear how heart rate variability can reflect the body’s resilience and why it can be helpful to notice patterns over time. They also discuss the vagus nerve and its role in communication between the brain and body, influencing digestion, mood, and overall regulation. The episode closes with practical ways to support the nervous system in daily life. Breathwork, movement, time in nature, and connection with others can all help signal safety and support the body’s ability to regulate. Throughout the conversation, one idea keeps coming up. Healing involves more than addressing physical symptoms. It also includes creating a sense of safety within the body. 👉 Learn more about Jen Nolan and Remission Nutrition [https://www.remissionnutrition.com/] 👉 Learn more about Dr. Kirsten West [https://riordanclinic.org/staff/kirsten-west-nd-lac-fabno/] 👉 Learn more about becoming a co-learner at Riordan Clinic [https://riordanclinic.org/become-a-patient/] Episode links and resources Learn more about Riordan Clinic [https://riordanclinic.org] Explore integrative health services [https://riordanclinic.org/services/] Listen/watch more Real Health Podcast episodes [https://realhealthpodcast.org] Disclaimer The information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast. Topics we explore in this episode include: nervous system health, stress response, vagus nerve, polyvagal theory, heart rate variability, cancer support, survivorship, scanxiety, emotional resilience, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, healing, Riordan Clinic, Real Health Podcast

Why Mental Health Starts with the Whole Person

“Words give feelings meaning.” —Dr. Drew Rose Mental health is often treated as something separate from physical health, even though the two are closely connected. In this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Dr. Michelle Niesley sits down with Dr. Drew Rose to talk through how a whole-person approach can support mental and emotional well-being. Dr. Drew shares how factors like nutrient levels, inflammation, and daily habits can influence mood and mental clarity. They discuss the role of lab testing in identifying potential imbalances in vitamin D, B vitamins, magnesium, and fatty acids, and how these factors work together. Sleep is a major part of the conversation. You’ll hear why restorative sleep matters for the nervous system and how small changes in sleep habits can support better consistency over time. They also touch on circadian rhythm, light exposure, and common disruptions that affect rest. The discussion also explores the role of therapy and the importance of having the right support system in place. Mental health care often works best as a collaborative effort, where lifestyle, nutrition, and emotional support are all part of the picture. They also walk through practical ways to begin making changes, including spending time outdoors, moving, and creating space for rest. The focus stays on building a foundation that supports both mental and physical well-being. For a deeper look at this topic, Dr. Drew expands on these ideas in his article: 👉 Mental Health Starts with the Whole Person [https://riordanclinic.org/2026/05/mental-health-starts-with-the-whole-person/] Throughout the episode, the conversation returns to a simple idea. When the body is supported, the mind often follows. 👉 Learn more about Dr. Drew Rose [https://riordanclinic.org/staff/drew-rose-do/] 👉 Learn more about Dr. Michelle Niesley [https://riordanclinic.org/staff/michelle-niesley-nd-ms-fabno/] 👉 Learn more about becoming a co-learner at Riordan Clinic [https://riordanclinic.org/become-a-patient/] Episode links and resources Learn more about Riordan Clinic [https://riordanclinic.org] Explore integrative health services [https://riordanclinic.org/services/] Listen/watch more Real Health Podcast episodes [https://realhealthpodcast.org] Disclaimer The information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast. Topics we explore in this episode include: mental health, sleep, circadian rhythm, stress, nervous system health, nutrient deficiencies, vitamin D, magnesium, B vitamins, integrative medicine, lifestyle medicine, therapy, wellness, functional medicine, Riordan Clinic, Real Health Podcast

Inside Integrative Care | Riordan Clinic Provider Roundtable

"The body wants to be well." —Dr. Kirsten West Every person’s health story looks different. Some people arrive after a diagnosis. Others come in after years of feeling dismissed, exhausted, or stuck searching for answers. In this first episode of the Riordan Clinic Provider Roundtable, Dr. Drew Rose is joined by Dr. Stacy Dunn and Dr. Kirsten West to discuss what led each of them to medicine, how they approach integrative care, and why individualized support matters. They discuss the differences between conventional and integrative medicine, including the importance of looking beyond symptoms and understanding the bigger picture of a person’s health. The conversation also touches on chronic illness, oncology support, patient advocacy, and the challenges of sorting through health information online. You’ll hear the providers share how they evaluate research, why collaboration matters in patient care, and what they hope co-learners experience when they come to Riordan Clinic. The episode also gives listeners a first look at the Riordan Clinic Provider Roundtable series, a monthly conversation bringing providers together to discuss integrative health topics, answer common questions, and share perspectives from their work with co-learners. 👉 Learn more about Dr. Drew Rose [https://riordanclinic.org/staff/drew-rose-do/] 👉 Learn more about Dr. Stacy Dunn [https://riordanclinic.org/staff/stacy-dunn-nd-lac-fabno-faborm/] 👉 Learn more about Dr. Kirsten West [https://riordanclinic.org/staff/kirsten-west-nd-lac-fabno/] 👉 Learn more about becoming a co-learner at Riordan Clinic [https://riordanclinic.org/become-a-patient/] Episode links and resources Learn more about Riordan Clinic [https://riordanclinic.org] Explore integrative oncology services [https://riordanclinic.org/what-we-do/integrative-oncology-at-riordan-clinic/] Listen/watch more Real Health Podcast episodes [https://realhealthpodcast.org] Disclaimer The information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast. Topics we explore in this episode include: integrative medicine, naturopathic medicine, root-cause care, functional medicine, chronic illness, integrative oncology, cancer support, patient advocacy, wellness, lifestyle medicine, provider collaboration, Riordan Clinic, Real Health Podcast

Bone Health After Cancer What Matters Most

“It is so important, and I think most people don’t realize that some of the cancer treatments can actually impair bone health.”—Dr. Stacy Dunn Bone health doesn’t always get attention until something changes. For many people, especially after cancer treatment, shifts in bone density can happen quietly over time. In this episode of the Real Health Podcast, Dr. Michelle Niesley sits down with Dr. Stacy Dunn to talk through what supports bone health during and after cancer care. Dr. Dunn shares how treatments like chemotherapy and hormone therapies can influence bone density, sometimes earlier than expected. They discuss how tools like DEXA scans are used to check bone health and why they can be helpful as part of ongoing care. The conversation also covers nutrients that play a role in bone health, including vitamin D, vitamin K2, and magnesium. Rather than focusing on one piece in isolation, they talk about how these work together and why balance matters. Movement is another part of the picture. You’ll hear why resistance training can support bone strength and how it can be worked into everyday routines without needing a full gym setup. Starting small and staying consistent can go a long way. They also walk through a few common areas of confusion, including medications, calcium intake, melatonin, and soy. The goal is to offer context so people can better understand their options and ask informed questions. Throughout the episode, the focus stays on the bigger picture. Bone health connects to nutrition, movement, sleep, and overall well-being, especially during survivorship and long-term care. 👉 Learn more about Dr. Stacy Dunn [https://riordanclinic.org/staff/stacy-dunn-nd-lac-fabno-faborm/] 👉 Learn more about Dr. Michelle Niesley [https://riordanclinic.org/staff/michelle-niesley-nd-ms-fabno/] 👉 Learn more about becoming a co-learner at Riordan Clinic [https://riordanclinic.org/become-a-patient/] Episode links and resources Learn more about Riordan Clinic [https://riordanclinic.org] Explore integrative oncology services [https://riordanclinic.org/what-we-do/integrative-oncology-at-riordan-clinic/] Listen/Watch more Real Health Podcast episodes [https://realhealthpodcast.org] Disclaimer The information contained on the Real Health Podcast and the resources mentioned are for educational purposes only. They are not intended as and shall not be understood or construed as medical or health advice. The information contained on this podcast is not a substitute for medical or health advice from a professional who is aware of the facts and circumstances of your individual situation. Information provided by hosts and guests on the Real Health Podcast or the use of any products or services mentioned does not create a practitioner-patient relationship between you and any persons affiliated with this podcast. Topics we explore in this episode include bone health, osteoporosis, osteopenia, cancer survivorship, integrative oncology, vitamin D, vitamin K2, magnesium, DEXA scan, resistance training, lifestyle support, hormone therapy, melatonin, soy and health, functional medicine, integrative health, Riordan Clinic, Real Health Podcast