Today on Beating Cancer Daily, Saranne welcomes back functional medicine expert Jacqui Bryan for an in-depth conversation about alpha lipoic acid (ALA), a unique antioxidant that acts as a secret weapon against oxidative stress. Together, they break down what makes ALA so powerful for anyone looking to support their health, especially those impacted by cancer, diabetes, or premature aging. Saranne and Jacqui explore the differences between alpha-lipoic acid and alpha-linolenic acid, discuss how ALA is synthesized in the body, and highlight the importance of food-based sources such as broccoli, spinach, potatoes, and tomatoes. The episode also features crucial insights into when supplementation may or may not be appropriate, why food is usually the best source, and how community support can make the cancer journey more connected and hopeful. Jacqui Bryan is a certified nutrition specialist, whole health educator, health coach, and registered nurse. With decades of experience as a cancer survivor and in functional medicine, she empowers individuals to make informed, practical choices that improve quality of life. Jacqui is known for translating science into actionable wellness strategies for both cancer survivors and those seeking preventative health. "Free radicals get messed up and it makes them dysfunctional, prone to premature aging, kind of grumpy. And then you have these antioxidants and they're like your superheroes...they burst onto the scene with an electron and that neutralizes the free radical." ~Saranne Today on Beating Cancer Daily:· Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is a potent antioxidant naturally synthesized in the human body and also available from foods such as broccoli, spinach, potatoes, and tomatoes· ALA supports nerve health and can help with neuropathy, especially in people with diabetes or as a side effect of cancer treatment· ALA is both water and fat-soluble, giving it versatility to work in multiple cell environments· Food sources are preferred over supplements due to bioavailability and lower risk of side effects· Supplements should be used with caution, especially for those undergoing active chemotherapy, or with certain medical conditions like thyroid disorders or diabetes· Ultra-processed foods contribute to inflammation and increased risk of diseases like cancer, emphasizing the need for a whole-foods-based diet· ALA can regenerate other important antioxidants, such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and glutathione, offering even broader cellular protection· Support, connection, and science-based guidance are critical tools for cancer survivors and caregivers in making daily empowered health choices Resources Mentioned:Beating Cancer Daily Episodes – "Antioxidant Episode", "Eye Health Episode", "Label Detective Episode" 2025 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Best Health Series FinalistRanked 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_SuggestionsTo 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

Ask this episode

“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

Transcript

Related