The Metabolic Theory of Breast Cancer with Dr. Donese Worden

Podcast Interview

In this conversation with breast cancer surgeon and integrative oncology advocate Dr. Jenn Simmons, physician and metabolic health researcher Dr. Donese Worden discusses the emerging science behind the metabolic theory of cancer and how it may reshape the way we understand breast cancer.

The Metabolic Theory of Breast Cancer

For decades, cancer has largely been framed as a genetic disease driven by DNA mutations. However, growing research suggests that cancer may also involve disruptions in cellular energy production within the mitochondria.

Dr. Worden explains how the metabolic theory of cancer focuses on how cells produce and use energy, and how changes in cellular metabolism may influence cancer growth and progression.

A More Personalized Approach to Cancer Care

During the discussion, Dr. Worden shares how her early work in pain management and patient care led her to explore metabolic approaches to complex diseases. After seeing many patients rushed into treatment decisions, she began advocating for a more individualized approach that carefully evaluates each patient’s condition.

Rather than positioning metabolic strategies as replacements for oncology, she emphasizes collaboration with oncologists and integrating supportive therapies that may help patients tolerate treatment more effectively.

Metabolic Therapies Being Explored

The conversation also explores several metabolic strategies that researchers and clinicians are studying in the context of cancer care, including:

• Ketogenic nutrition strategies designed to influence cellular metabolism
• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy and its potential role in supporting treatment environments
• Ways to support the body's overall metabolic health during treatment

These approaches are part of a growing field of metabolic oncology research that seeks to better understand how cellular energy pathways influence disease.

In This Episode You'll Learn

• How the metabolic theory of cancer challenges traditional views of cancer biology
• Why mitochondrial function plays a key role in cellular health
• How metabolic strategies may support patients undergoing cancer treatment
• Why collaboration between integrative physicians and oncologists is essential

Listen to the full conversation above to hear Dr. Donese Worden discuss the metabolic theory of breast cancer and the evolving science behind metabolic approaches to cancer care.