When it comes to health, most of us just want honest answers. But navigating the world of medicine can feel overwhelming—conflicting advice, big pharma controversies, and endless trends. That’s where Dr. Donese Worden steps in. As an award-winning physician, researcher, and thought leader in integrative medicine, she’s on a mission to combine science and common sense to help people make smarter health choices.

In a recent episode of the Beyond Your WHY Podcast, host Dr. Gary Sanchez sat down with Dr. Worden to tackle everything from cancer treatments to preventative health strategies. With decades of experience bridging traditional and alternative medicine, Dr. Worden offers a refreshing take on what it truly means to heal and thrive. Here are the biggest lessons from the conversation—and trust us, you’ll want to read this one to the end.

The Basics Still Matter (But Most of Us Skip Them)

Dr. Worden didn’t mince words: the best way to live longer and stay healthier is to nail the basics. That means eating real, nutritious food, staying active, and managing stress like your life depends on it—because it does. “Stress is one of the biggest contributors to disease,” she explained. Whether it’s chronic anxiety or lack of sleep, these factors wear down your body, particularly the mitochondria, which are key to cell health.

She shared the importance of keeping things simple: “Good food, good air, exercise, and your mindset. Those are your best medicines.” It’s not a quick fix or some shiny, new trend, but it’s what works. And when paired with stress-reducing practices like meditation, prayer, or walking in nature, these habits can transform your health without needing expensive pills or fancy treatments.

Cancer Treatment Needs a Rethink

A major part of Dr. Worden’s work focuses on metabolic therapies for cancer, and her approach is turning traditional methods on their head. She shared how most cancers aren’t actually driven by genetics, despite what many believe. Instead, damage to the mitochondria often plays a bigger role. Her therapies focus on strengthening healthy cells while targeting cancer cells using methods like ketogenic diets, hyperbaric oxygen, and repurposed medications like vitamin C IVs.

“Whatever you believe in becomes your best medicine,” she said, highlighting the importance of personal decision-making in cancer care. Her approach is a mix of educating patients about all their options, using precise testing to see what treatments will work, and creating individualized plans that give people a sense of control. As Dr. Worden explained, it’s not just about surviving—it’s about helping patients thrive.

Be Your Own Advocate (Even When It’s Hard)

One of the most important takeaways from this episode was the power of self-advocacy in healthcare. Dr. Worden emphasized how important it is to ask questions, challenge decisions that don’t feel right, and demand clarity from your doctor. “You have the right to dare to doubt,” she said. This doesn’t mean being difficult or combative, but rather taking an active role in your care and trusting your instincts when something feels off.

She shared stories of patients who felt unheard by their doctors and how she helps them regain confidence in their decisions. For her, it’s not about dismissing traditional medicine but rather combining it with integrative approaches to create better outcomes. “It’s about looking at the whole picture,” she explained, urging listeners to focus on what makes sense for their unique situation.

Dr. Worden’s message is clear: healing doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require effort, honesty, and a willingness to listen to your body. Her work shines a light on what’s possible when science meets practicality, and her approach to personalized medicine is a game-changer for patients facing tough health challenges.

If you’re ready to take control of your health and learn how to make better decisions for yourself or your loved ones, this episode is packed with valuable insights. Tune in to hear Dr. Worden’s practical tips and no-nonsense advice—it’s the kind of wisdom we all need more of.

Listen to the full episode of the Beyond Your WHY Podcast today and discover how to take charge of your health, one step at a time.