The increasing number of cancer diagnoses and the accompanying questions about the causes of this disease are driving researchers and scientists to conduct intensive investigations. Understanding the underlying causes and gaining a comprehensive understanding of the disease offers a better chance of a full recovery. In an integrative approach, these investigations extend beyond the physical body. They encompass emotions, spirituality, relationships, environment, based on the assumption that every disease typically has multiple dimensions.
Among the various concepts regarding the development of cancer, the so-called metabolic theory is gaining increasing attention. According to this theory, only 5-10% of cancers have a genetic basis, while the remaining 90-95% are the result of an unhealthy diet and lifestyle.
Given this approach, I would like to ask Dr. Nasha Winters, a specialist in integrative oncology, who has personal experience with cancer, the author of the book "“Metabolic Approach to Cancer,” and director of the nonprofit Metabolic Terrain Institute of Health (MTIH), the following questions:
What differentiates your approach to cancer treatment from the conventional approach? What led you to this perspective?
My approach to cancer is rooted in systems biology, not symptom suppression. It is terrain-focused, patient-centered, and based on the principles of Test, Assess, Address™, Don't Guess. What differentiates it from conventional oncology is that instead of targeting only the tumor, we focus on optimizing the ecosystem—or terrain—in which the tumor developed.
This perspective was born out of necessity. I was diagnosed with terminal cancer over three decades ago, given only months to live. That experience led me down a lifelong journey of inquiry, study, and clinical application. I've since worked with thousands of patients globally, witnessing firsthand how empowered individuals, when supported in mind, body, and spirit, can shift the trajectory of chronic illness—including cancer.
What exactly does a metabolic approach to cancer mean? What therapies does it encompass? Is conventional treatment part of it?
A metabolic approach to cancer recognizes cancer as a mitochondrial and metabolic disease, not just a genetic one. It focuses on restoring metabolic flexibility, mitochondrial function, and redox balance. We evaluate the body's terrain using comprehensive testing that goes far beyond standard labs, assessing things like epigenetics, toxicant exposures, glucose and insulin dynamics, immune function, inflammation, and more.
Therapies range from metabolic nutrition (such as therapeutic ketogenic or fasting-mimicking diets), mistletoe therapy, hyperbaric oxygen, IV therapies, repurposed drugs, and mitochondrial support to lifestyle strategies like circadian alignment, stress modulation, and community support.
Conventional therapies—surgery, chemotherapy, radiation—can absolutely be part of the metabolic approach. When needed, we help patients enhance efficacy and reduce side effects through terrain-optimizing strategies. We don't take an either/or stance; rather, we strive to use the right tool at the right time for the right patient.
Are there scientific evidence and research confirming the effectiveness of this approach to treatment? What are the outcomes of such treatment?
There is a rapidly growing body of research supporting the metabolic theory of cancer and the use of metabolic therapies. From the work of Otto Warburg to contemporary researchers like Dr. Thomas Seyfried, Dr. Adrienne Scheck, and Dr. Dominic D'Agostino, we are seeing compelling pre-clinical and clinical data on the role of metabolic flexibility, ketones, glucose restriction, and mitochondria in cancer development and treatment response.
Moreover, integrative and metabolic oncology studies consistently show improvements in quality of life, treatment tolerability, immune resilience, and even survival outcomes. At the Metabolic Terrain Institute of Health ( www.MTIH.org ), we're contributing to this evidence base through our ongoing research, novel formulation and delivery of therapeutics, and the development of real-world outcome tracking tools.
What does it mean for the patient in terms of side effects, quality of life during treatment, risk of recurrence, and long-term treatment effects?
A terrain-based, integrative approach is inherently personalized. We aim to minimize harm while maximizing healing potential. Patients often report improved energy, sleep, digestion, mood, and sense of agency—even while undergoing conventional treatment.
By addressing root causes and supporting the terrain, we not only reduce side effects but may also enhance conventional treatment efficacy and reduce the risk of recurrence. Long-term, patients who adopt a terrain-optimizing lifestyle often find themselves healthier than before diagnosis.
What work should the patient do and what changes should they make to increase their chances of a full recovery?
Healing is participatory. While practitioners guide the journey, the patient walks the path. This involves aligning daily choices—how we eat, move, sleep, think, and connect—with the rhythms of nature and the needs of their unique biochemistry.
We encourage patients to address the Terrain Ten™—a framework encompassing epigenetics, glycemic control, toxins, microbiome health, immune function, inflammation, oxygenation, hormonal balance, stress/circadian rhythm, and the mind-body connection. When patients engage these elements with awareness and consistency, outcomes improve—not only physically but emotionally and spiritually as well.
For those newly diagnosed this is a great tool to start your journey: the 6 steps here
What should one pay attention to when seeking a credible and experienced integrative medicine doctor who can support the patient on their journey to health?
Look for someone who honors the wisdom of both science and the body. They should have formal training in integrative or metabolic oncology, be open to collaboration with conventional teams, and most importantly, listen deeply.
At Metabolic Regen ( www.MetabolicRegen.com ) are building a network of trained Metabolic Terrain Advocates and Healthcare Providers who can help patients navigate this complex landscape with evidence-informed, personalized guidance. Resources are available at www.metabolicregen.com and www.drnasha.com. You can also learn more through our podcast discussions at www.metabolicmatters.com where we interview individuals that are contributing to this growing body of knowledge.
Finally, since 90–95% of health is in our own hands, how can we not take care of ourselves? What should our prevention look like on a daily basis?
Prevention is not a product—it's a practice. It's about aligning with the rhythms of life: waking with the sun, eating foods close to the earth, moving our bodies regularly, cultivating joy, connecting with others, and stewarding the planet that feeds us.
We cannot separate human health from the health of our soil, our communities, or our spirit. True prevention means creating environments—internally and externally—that support life, not disease. That is the future of medicine. That is the heart of the Metabolic Approach to Cancer. If you want to learn how we are weaving this all together—join us at our inaugural conference happening in Tucson, AZ USA October 9-11 both virtually for those that can't join us. https://metabolichealthday.life/2025-conference
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About Dr. Nasha Winters, ND, FABNO
Dr. Nasha Winters is an integrative oncology specialist, author of “The Metabolic Approach to Cancer” and “Mistletoe and the Emerging Future of Integrative Oncology,” host of the Metabolic Matters podcast, former Executive Director of the nonprofit organization the Metabolic Terrain Institute of Health (MTIH), CEO of Dr. Nasha, Inc and co-founder and Medical Director of Terrain Holding Company.
An internationally recognized authority in integrative cancer care and a sought-after public speaker, she champions a comprehensive approach to cancer treatment, combining standard of care with vetted metabolic and complementary therapies for optimal outcomes. She is a trusted consultant for medical professionals and researchers worldwide, offering expertise in patient evaluation and treatment strategies.
Dr. Nasha is revolutionizing cancer care with her vision for a pioneering residential integrative oncology hospital and research institute. She recently took a giant step towards realizing that vision with the opening of a new, nonprofit metabolic research lab in Phoenix, Arizona, focusing on personalized cancer treatments and early detection tools.
She's also enhancing cancer treatment education through the Integrative Metabolic Oncology Course (IMOC), Advanced Integrative Metabolic Course (AIMC), and the Terrain Advocate Program, training practitioners and advocates globally. To support patients, she's raising funds for financial aid, ensuring access to innovative treatments.
Dr. Nasha's for-profit ventures, MitoVida and MTOmics, are producing groundbreaking supplements and an AI-powered health data platform, respectively, targeting metabolic dysfunction and personalizing therapies. Her multifaceted efforts are on the cusp of transforming cancer care and metabolic health worldwide.
Dr. Nasha Winters: www.drnasha.com Terrain Holding: www.terrainholding.com
Metabolic Regen: https://metabolicregen.com/ Mtomics: https://mtomics.com/
Mitovida: https://www.mitovida.com/
Metabolic Matters Podcast: https://metabolicmatters.com
The Metabolic Approach to Cancer-Books: https://www.drnasha.com/books-and-education
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Author: Joanna Niewolik
