On today’s episode of Beating Cancer Daily, Saranne welcomes Jacqui Bryan, a functional medicine expert, to explore the often-overlooked challenge of muscle loss and its impact on individuals facing cancer, aging, and chronic illness. The conversation centers on sarcopenia, or age-related muscle decline, highlighting not only its insidious onset but also practical strategies for prevention and reversal at any age. As a 33-year Stage IV cancer survivor, Saranne discusses her personal experiences with muscle and bone loss during treatment, while Jacqui shares actionable advice for maintaining muscle health, even for those who are bedridden or recovering from cancer therapy. Jacqui Bryan is a certified nutrition specialist, whole health educator, health coach, and registered nurse. Having survived cancer herself, Jacqui brings firsthand experience and clinical expertise to her holistic approach. Her deep understanding of nutrition, movement, and the specific needs of cancer patients has helped countless individuals regain strength and reclaim their vitality. "Sarcopenia is the slow erosion of your body's engine... It's almost entirely preventable and partially reversible at any age." ~Jacqui Bryan Today on Beating Cancer Daily:· Sarcopenia, or age-related muscle loss, is a serious yet often underdiagnosed condition that can be both prevented and partially reversed at any age.· Cancer patients, survivors, and anyone age 30 or older, especially those who are sedentary, are at increased risk of significant muscle loss.· Muscle tissue is a metabolic organ crucial for blood sugar regulation, immune function, and maintaining independence as we age.· Resistance training two to four times per week is the most effective strategy for preserving and building muscle, even well into your 80s and 90s.· Adequate, high-quality protein (around 25-30 grams per meal) and nutrients such as vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids are essential for maintaining muscle mass.· Postmenopausal women and individuals with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart failure, COPD, and chronic kidney disease face accelerated risks and should be especially vigilant.· Chronic stress, poor sleep, and restrictive diets can all accelerate muscle loss; stress management and sleep hygiene are critical components of muscle preservation.· For those struggling with muscle loss after treatments, especially Stage IV cancer survivors and the bedridden, asking healthcare providers about physical therapy and working with dietitians can make a significant difference. Contact Jacqui: jacquibryan.com 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 148 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: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_Suggestions To 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