Experts caution that high Sugar Actually Promotes Cancer risk in the long run, but cutting out all sugar doesn’t combat existing tumors.
By Connie ChangÂ
In her eight years as an oncology dietitian, Stacy Shawhan often hears cancer patients inquire about how their diets impact their prognosis. One question frequently arises: Will consuming sugary foods worsen their condition by feeding cancer cells? These patients, vulnerable and afraid, sometimes contemplate avoiding sugar altogether, thinking it will starve their cancer. However, the notion that “Sugar Actually Promotes Cancer” traces its roots back to the 1920s when a German physiologist observed certain tumor cells consuming more glucose than healthy cells. This observation led to the emergence of low-sugar diets claiming to cure cancer. Today, polls indicate that about a third of cancer patients actively steer clear of sugar.
While experts acknowledge that diets high in added sugars may increase cancer risk over time, eliminating all sugars doesn’t effectively combat existing tumors. Glucose is essential for all cells, including brain function. To optimize their health, cancer patients should focus on a balanced and healthy diet, which is also beneficial for those looking to reduce their cancer risk.
Sugar’s Role in cancer risk
Philipp Scherer affirms that sugar is not a carcinogen. There is no concrete evidence proving that sugar consumption directly causes cancer, akin to the harmful effects of smoking cigarettes. Furthermore, Scherer points out that many cancers actually prefer fat as their primary energy source, contradicting the notion that cancers solely prefer glucose.
However, a growing body of evidence suggests a potential connection between overconsumption of added sugars (commonly found in cookies, cakes, and soft drinks) and cancer. A comprehensive review of studies conducted in 2018 highlighted several pieces of research that established a link between added sugar and sugary beverage intake and Sugar Actually Promotes Cancer.
Excessive sugar intake has been found to trigger chronic inflammation in certain individuals, leading to cell damage that could potentially turn cancerous, as stated by Shawhan. Moreover, overindulgence in added sugars has been shown to weaken the body’s immunity, making it easier for cancer cells to spread. Additionally, consuming excess sugar can cause metabolic alterations that may lead to obesity and diabetes, both known to elevate cancer risk.
While sugar itself may not be a direct carcinogen, limiting the intake of added sugars is essential for overall health and cancer prevention. The evidence points to the importance of maintaining a balanced diet and reducing the consumption of sugary treats and beverages to promote a healthier lifestyle.
Sugar and cancer patients
Once diagnosed with cancer, eliminating sugar may not significantly impact cancer growth in most cases, as stated by Shawhan. At this stage, cancer growth is primarily driven by the disease itself rather than sugar intake.
Scherer emphasizes that sugar is crucial for the functioning of most living organisms. When found naturally in foods like dairy products, fruits, and vegetables, it contributes to a balanced and healthy diet, according to Natalie Ledesma, an oncology dietitian at UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Centre.
Experts generally agree that there is no need to avoid sugars in whole foods. However, Ledesma highlights that overconsumption of added sugars has been linked to poorer outcomes, including higher mortality rates, in patients with certain solid tumors like breast, colon, and prostate cancers. While other cancer types may also be impacted, research on rarer cancers remains limited.
Maintaining a balanced diet is crucial for cancer patients without developing a fear of food, Following the advice of Dr. Santosh Rao, an integrative oncologist at University Hospitals Connor Whole Health. Cancer patients often experience muscle loss due to their condition, and certain treatments, like Ensure, electrolyte drinks, or potatoes, recommended by doctors, can contain high sugar content, as mentioned by Shawhan.
While everyone should avoid diets high in added sugars, cancer patients with certain metabolic diseases should be particularly cautious, as these conditions can impact their prognosis. Rao highlights that patients with poorly controlled diabetes may face more aggressive breast cancer. Additionally, a meta-analysis suggests that obese patients are more susceptible to fatal outcomes in cases of colon, breast, and uterine cancers.
Discover the Art of Healthful Eating Without Feeling Deprived
To reduce your cancer risk and support your well-being after a cancer diagnosis, embrace a healthy diet rich in whole fruits and vegetables. Studies reveal that Mediterranean diets can be particularly beneficial in reducing cancer risk. Balancing carbohydrates with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, such as pairing apple slices with a touch of peanut butter, helps stabilize glucose levels, promoting a healthier metabolism and lowering cancer risk.
Indulging in a small amount of added sugar is generally acceptable, even on a daily basis, as long as the rest of your diet provides essential nutrients. It is advisable to adhere to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s recommendation of 12 teaspoons of added sugar daily or better yet, follow the World Health Organization’s guidance of six teaspoons.
Research on sugar substitutes and their impact on cancer risk remains inconclusive. For now, experts advise avoiding them until more is known. Instead, consider naturally sweetening recipes with wholesome foods like bananas, frozen berries, and applesauce, often featured in delightful nondairy ice creams. Substituting cinnamon or ginger adds natural sweetness without added calories or sugar, as suggested by Natalie Ledesma, an oncology dietitian.
By embracing a well-balanced and nourishing diet, you can take significant strides toward reducing cancer risk and promoting overall health and well-being.
Sugar can also promote inflammation. Inflammation naturally occurs as an immune response to injury or infection.
However, chronic inflammation can damage cells and tissues, and Sugar Actually Promotes Cancer, it can increase the risk of cancer.
If you are concerned about the link between sugar and cancer, you can talk to your doctor. They can help you develop a healthy diet that is low in sugar.
Here are some tips for reducing your sugar intake:
- Carefully read food labels and opt for foods low in added sugar.
- Reduce your consumption of sugary drinks like soda, juice, and sports beverages.
- Opt for fresh fruits over sugary snacks.
- Reduce processed food consumption, as they often contain high added sugar.
- Prepare homemade meals to regulate sugar content.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diet_and_cancer
