Cancer Immunity: One of the most widely circulated myths on social media is that "sugar promotes cancer" and that if a person completely stops eating sugar or carbohydrates, the tumor will starve to death.

Does sugar really cause cancer?

Can Stopping Sugar Cure Cancer? One of the most common myths on social media regarding cancer is that "sugar makes cancer worse" and that if a person completely stops eating sugar or carbohydrates, the tumor will starve. This is why many families begin eliminating rice, bread, fruit, and other carb-rich foods from the patient's diet. At first glance, this seems plausible, as cancer cells utilize glucose extensively. But the actual science is much more complicated.

Is this true or not?

Dr. Mandeep Singh Malhotra, Director of Surgical Oncology and Robotic Surgery at CK Birla Hospital, New Delhi, calls this thinking a dangerous half-truth. He says that while some of the science is correct, people draw incorrect conclusions from it. Proper nutrition for cancer doesn't mean starving the body, but rather keeping it strong enough to withstand treatment and maintain immunity.

What is the theory of sugar and cancer?

The sugar-cancer theory actually began in 1924, when German scientist Otto Warburg discovered that cancer cells use glucose more rapidly than normal cells. This was called the Warburg effect. Even today, positron emission tomography (Positron Emission Tomography) scans operate on this principle, as tumors absorb glucose rapidly and glow in the scan. Research by the US National Cancer Institute also suggests that cancer cells alter their energy use.

What are the disadvantages of cutting out carbohydrates?

But an important fact often overlooked on social media is that glucose is needed not only by cancer cells but also by the brain, heart, muscles, blood cells, and immune system. If a person completely cuts off carbohydrates, the body begins to produce glucose on its own. This process is called gluconeogenesis. The body breaks down muscle and protein for this purpose. This means that the cancer continues to receive energy, but the patient begins to weaken.

What things should be kept in mind during treatment?

Doctors don't recommend consuming unlimited sugar. Refined sugar, soft drinks, candy, pastries, and highly processed foods are harmful to health. However, the body needs a balanced diet during treatment. Experts recommend eating whole grains, pulses, vegetables, nuts, healthy fats, and protein to gradually replenish energy and maintain strength.