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What if some medicinal mushrooms could make chemotherapy work better AND reduce its side effects at the same time? In this fascinating episode, Dr Elizabeth Thompson sits down with Dr Catalina Fernández de Ana Portela - scientist, pioneer and founder of Hifas da Terra - to explore one of the most exciting frontiers in cancer care today: medicinal mushrooms. Catalina's story is extraordinary. Growing up in Galicia, Spain, surrounded by her father's mycology research, one of Europe's leading mycologists, she built a science-led company that is now running landmark clinical trials within the Spanish NHS. The results are turning heads in oncology worldwide.
In this episode you will discover:
🍄 How medicinal mushrooms act as biological response modifiers, safely balancing the immune system
🔬 Findings from two ground-breaking clinical trialsin colorectal and breast cancer
💊 How mushroom extracts can enhance chemotherapy's effectiveness while reducing toxic side effects
🧬 Why not all mushroom products are safe during cancer treatment and what to look for
🌿 The case for starting mushroom support BEFORE treatment begins
❓Why only 3% of cancer risk is genetic and what that means for all of us
This is a conversation that blends cutting-edge science, ancient wisdom and genuine hope. Whether you are a healthcare professional, a cancer patient or simply curious about the future of integrative medicine, this one will stay with you.
About our guest:
Catalina F. de Ana Portela is a leading expert in integrative oncology, combining scientific excellence with a commitment to advancing patient-centred care. She holds a PhD in Medicine in new research in Clinical Oncology, bringing a rigorous academic foundation to her work at the forefront of cancer care innovation. As the founder of Hifas da Terra, Europe’s leading mycotherapy laboratory, she has been instrumental in pioneering the use of medicinal mushrooms as evidence-based supportive therapies in oncology. With a background in biology and extensive research experience, Catalina bridges the gap between conventional medicine and integrative approaches, driving forward new possibilities in cancer treatment.
Full show notes can be found here: https://ncim.org.uk/podcast-catalina-fernandez
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Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health or treatment plan.
