Show notes
Thank You!! Beating Cancer Daily is a 2025 People’s Choice Podcast Awards Finalist Today on Beating Cancer Daily, Saranne brings awareness to the often-overlooked intersection between migraines and cancer by inviting Jacqui Bryan, an expert in nutrition and functional medicine, for a practical, compassionate discussion. While neither has experienced a migraine firsthand, both women share their care for loved ones who suffer from these debilitating headaches. Together, they unpack the distinct triggers—especially food-related ones, such as additives like MSG and compounds in wine and cheese—that can set off migraines, explore how hormonal shifts, lifestyle factors, and stress amplify symptoms, and provide actionable strategies for both migraine prevention and in-the-moment relief. Saranne’s signature blend of warmth and humor lightens the conversation, while Jacqui offers clear nutritional advice and underscores the importance of keeping a symptom journal. This episode is a rich resource for anyone living with migraines or supporting someone with chronic pain in the context of cancer, including those facing the unique challenges of Stage IV diagnosis.Jacqui Bryan is a certified nutrition specialist, whole health educator, health coach, and registered nurse with a specialization in functional medicine. Her expertise covers the intersection of nutrition, lifestyle, and chronic illness, providing compassionate and science-backed guidance for those seeking to improve their well-being. Jacqui’s holistic approach and longstanding commitment to patient education make her a valued presence for anyone navigating migraines, cancer treatment, or both."When I laugh like a belly laugh, I can only focus on that one feeling at that given time. And it's a gift to be able to disengage from whatever stress is going on in my life for a laughing moment." ~Jacqui Bryan Today on Beating Cancer Daily:· Migraines can be triggered by specific foods and additives, including MSG, red wine, aged cheeses, and tannins found in certain fruits and teas· Women are two to three times more likely than men to experience migraines, pointing to hormonal influences· Keeping a detailed food and symptom journal is a powerful tool for identifying individual migraine triggers· Dehydration, blood sugar imbalances, sleep deprivation, and stress can all precipitate migraines or make them worse· Magnesium-rich foods (like pumpkin seeds), as well as riboflavin (B2) and CoQ10, may help reduce migraine frequency for some people· Strong odors, flashing lights, and excessive noise can exacerbate migraines, so creating a calm, dark environment is helpful during an attack· Humor, laughter, and mindfulness techniques play important roles in managing stress, which may help prevent or lessen the impact of migraines· Open communication with healthcare providers is vital when considering food-based or supplemental strategies for migraine management, especially for those with a cancer diagnosisGuest Contact Information: Jacqui BryanRanked the Top 5 Best Cancer Podcasts by CancerCare News in 2024 & 2025, and #1 Rated Cancer Survivor Podcast by FeedSpot in 2024Beating Cancer Daily is listened to in over 130 countries across 7 continents and features over 390 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