When people receive the news that someone has cancer, the first response that tends to come to mind is “Stop eating sugar.” The belief that sugar fuels the growth of cancer cells is common and unfortunately contributes to the stress and anxiety experienced by people undergoing chemotherapy. So what does the science actually say?  

We'll explore how sugar affects cancer, the role of sugar during chemotherapy, and how patients can maintain a balanced diet while undergoing treatment.

Why Has There Been Such a Rallying Cry Against Sugar?

The notion that “sugar feeds cancer” stems from a particular branch of science called the Warburg Effect. This Warburg Effect states that cancerous cells tend to metabolically decompose (or burn) sugar, at a far greater rate than other types of cells, leading to their overproduction. This was observed way back in the 1800s and the assumption that eating sugar may cause cancer to accelerate has dominated since then.  

Context is important here. Cancer will form if a person has a car, and in order for any car to function properly, you need fuel. The sugar can be ‘fueled’ for healthy cells too. Instead of avoiding sugar altogether, focus on reducing severe imbalances in your diet to promote a healthy lifestyle while enabling the body and energy to withstand the illness.

Is It True That Sugar Fuels Cancer?  

While it’s true that cancer cells tend to require and fervently consume more sugar or glucose than the average cell, there’s no scientific backing that suggests eating sugar will fuel the growth and spread of cancer. What has been determined, however, is that cancer does modify the manner in which cells utilize energy. Still, sugar does not need to be the scapegoat. This is a very broad and complex matter.  

What actually matters is the form in which the sugar is taken and the quantity. Over consumption of refined sugars such as those found in soft drinks, candies, and pastries increased the chances of getting obesity and insulin resistance and chronic inflammation, which are known risk factors for many types of cancer.  

In simple terms, it is not about cutting sugar completely and making it a personal taboo, but rather added sugars and restoring equilibrium to diet.  

The Role Of Sugar During Chemotherapy: Is It Acceptable To Take It?  

Chemotherapy is an exceptionally draining process: emotionally and physically. It changes your appetite, your ability to digest food, which levels of energy you have access to and even your taste. At such points in time, nutrition is more valuable than ever. This is what you need to know about sugar in chemotherapy: -

 When Moderated, Natural Sugars Are Acceptable   

Alongside vitamins, minerals, and fiber, fruits, vegetables, and dairy contain natural sugars and so do whole grains. These are considered not only as safe but also, particularly recommended, during chemotherapy to energize the individual.

 Refined Sugars Should Be Limited 

Dietary sugars contribute nothing of significance to your body’s nutritional needs and instead offer “empty” calories, increase blood sugar levels and can be harmful when added to food, especially during ongoing treatment. Processed sweets, sugary drinks, and packaged snacks are best kept to a minimum.

 Sugar May Help In Specific Circumstances 

Certain chemotherapy cancer patients may undergo severe weight loss and require specialized diets to meet caloric needs. In these particular circumstances, doctors may forego restricting sugar to avoid energy depletion and the risk of malnutrition. 

Should Cancer Patients Follow A Sugar Free Diet? 

In the context of cancer, a no-sugar diet is not very effective unless tailored to other underlying health concerns such as diabetes. It is more beneficial to incorporate an anti-inflammatory diet that is well-balanced and enhances bodily recovery, healing, and helps manage treatment side effects.

With respect to an ideal diet for someone undergoing chemotherapy, it includes:-

• Foods with a lot of fiber: grains, vegetables, legumes
• Healthy Proteins: eggs, fish, chicken, tofu
• Fats: nuts, seeds, olive oil
• Adequate fluids: water, soup, herbal teas, etc.
• Natural sugar sources: fruits like strawberries, bananas, and apples

How to Manage Sugar Cravings During Chemo?

When dealing with the stress of chemotherapy cravings can derail you, but here's how to manage them smartly:-

• Opt for wholesome sweets like figs and dates instead of candies.
• Make Greek yogurt or almond milk smoothies with fruit.
• Sweeten with sugar-free options like cinnamon and vanilla extract. 
• Stock up on nutritious snacks including roasted nuts, whole grain crackers, and homemade granola.

Remember it is perfectly fine to indulge once in awhile; doing so guilt-free when done mindfully can contribute to emotional well-being.

Common Myths About Sugar and Cancer

Let's bust some popular myths:

Myth 1:  Canceling sugar will make all your problems go away.

Truth: Removing sugar isn’t always the best approach; natural sugars from fruits and dairy provide wholesome nutrients

Myth 2: Sugar causes cancer.

Truth:  A mix of genetics, environment, and lifestyle these factors cause cancer. Sugar alone does not.

Myth 3: Remove all carbs when undergoing treatment.

Carbohydrates, such as sugars, provide one of the most important types of energy for the body and should be included in a well-balanced diet unless there is specific medical guidance to the contrary. 

Final Thoughts

Patients with cancer already contend with the burden of physical fatigue, emotional anxiety, and the effects of the treatment. Creating arbitrary dietary restrictions, for instance, an outright ban on sugar, adds unnecessary burdens. The focus needs to be on nutritional adequacy instead of fear-based elimination diets.  

During chemotherapy, the approach should be moderation. Sugar contains several important building blocks, especially those present in fruits, vegetables, and even some dietary products. Refined sugary snacks and drinks should be avoided, though avoiding them should be a rule for everyone and not exclusively for people with cancer.  

It is always a good idea to speak to your oncologist alongside a certified nutritionist before changing diet plans during treatment.  

About Dr. Pooja Babbar

Dr. Pooja Babbar is a medical oncologist specializing in treating cancer patients and has over ten years of practical experience, which is quite discerning. Considering the unique needs of the individual, she has provided over 5000 chemotherapy infusions, encompassing various types of cancer, often labeled under precision medicine. Besides offering sophisticated medical interventions, her holistic approach to cancer care places equal importance on education, nutrition, and emotional support.

For inquiries about cancer treatments, diet plans, fertility issues after therapy, or any other concerns, Dr. Pooja Babbar and her associates offer guidance with understanding and care. Book a call today!