Chemotherapy saves lives. But for millions, it also comes with side effects of cognitive fog, memory lapses, slowed thinking, and emotional flattening.
In the past, 'chemo brain' has sometimes been dismissed as anecdotal. But, as science has evolved, we've come to understand the very real shifts in attention, memory, processing speed, and emotional regulation underpinning the impairment.
In this episode, we break down what's happening in the brain during treatment, why these changes arise, and how healthier lifestyle choices can support our recovery.
In this episode, we explore:
• What 'chemo brain' really is (and why chemotherapy itself isn't the only thing contributing to it)
• How inflammation, hormonal shifts, anesthesia, sleep disruption, and chronic stress impact cognition during cancer
• The latest research on structural and functional brain changes during treatment
• Why many cognitive effects are temporary (and how neuroplasticity supports recovery)
• How cognitive fog intersects with identity loss and grief
• The role of nutrition in supporting clarity, energy, memory, and mood during chemotherapy
• How to navigate food fears, misinformation, and "miracle cancer diets"
• The importance of gentle movement, sleep consistency, and stress management
• How patients can advocate for themselves (including tips on what to discuss with their care team)
Bringing their perspectives and expertise to this episode are two wonderful guests:
• DR. LIZ O'RIORDAN: retired breast surgeon, author, and three-time breast cancer survivor, whose personal and clinical experience offers a rare, deeply human insight into cancer-related cognitive change.
• NICHOLE ANDREWS, RDN: oncology dietitian, educator, and advocate for evidence-based, fear-free nutrition during and after cancer treatment.
"Your Brain On..." is hosted by neurologists, scientists, and public health advocates Drs. Ayesha and Dean Sherzai.
SUPPORTED BY: the 2026 NEURO World Retreat. A 5-day journey through science, nature, and community, on the California coastline: https://www.neuroworldretreat.com/
'Your Brain On... Parkinson's' • SEASON 6 • EPISODE 5
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LINKS
Dr. Liz O'Riordan:
Website: https://liz.oriordan.co.uk/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oriordanliz/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_t0jGeR8M4vCPSb68itjRQ
Nichole Andrews, RDN:
Website: https://theoncologydietitian.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oncology.nutrition.rd/
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FOLLOW US
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More info and episodes: TheBrainDocs.com/Podcast