The ketogenic diet, known for its low carbohydrate and high-fat composition, may offer certain health benefits in the context of cancer treatment or prevention. However, research findings remain inconsistent, and there are potential drawbacks for individuals undergoing ongoing cancer therapies.

Typically, cancer treatment involves a multifaceted approach that combines surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Various dietary strategies have been explored in this realm, yet none have emerged as particularly effective in enhancing treatment outcomes. Initial studies indicate that a very low-carb ketogenic diet might provide some assistance in managing cancer symptoms.

It is crucial to remember that one should never postpone or bypass standard medical treatments for cancer in favor of alternative therapies like the ketogenic diet. Engaging in open discussions about all available treatment options with your healthcare team is essential.

The Impact of Blood Sugar on Cancer Development

One significant factor that can influence the growth of cancer cells is the intake of carbohydrates, which ultimately affects blood sugar levels. When you consume carbohydrates, your body metabolizes them into glucose, a vital form of sugar that supplies energy not only to healthy cells but also to cancerous ones.

Adopting a ketogenic diet can modify certain metabolic functions within your body, leading to a reduction in blood sugar levels. The premise behind this dietary approach is that it may effectively 'starve' cancer cells of their preferred energy source, resulting in:

• a slowdown in their growth
• a reduction in their overall size

It is important to dispel the common misconception that cancer cells exclusively rely on sugars for energy. In reality, they can also utilize fats and amino acids for their growth. Therefore, while adopting a sugar-free lifestyle may not entirely halt their proliferation or eliminate them, it could potentially lead to a decrease in their growth rate.

Advantages of the Ketogenic Diet in Cancer Treatment

The ketogenic diet is characterized by a significant reduction in carbohydrate intake. By minimizing carbs, there is a corresponding decrease in overall calorie consumption, leading to a reduced energy supply for the body's cells.

This alteration in energy availability may contribute to slowing the growth of tumors and the advancement of cancer. Additional potential advantages of adopting a ketogenic diet for cancer management include:

• Reduced Insulin Levels: The presence of insulin stimulates cell growth, including that of cancerous cells. Therefore, maintaining lower levels of insulin may be beneficial in decelerating tumor development.
• Elevated Ketone Bodies: Cancer cells are unable to utilize ketones as a source of energy. Research conducted on animals indicates that ketones can hinder tumor growth.

Impact of a Ketogenic Diet on Cancer in Animal Studies

A 2019 investigation revealed that a ketogenic diet could potentially hinder tumor growth and enhance survival rates in animal models. The research specifically indicated that a low-carbohydrate diet, which restricted glucose levels, effectively prevented the proliferation of squamous cell carcinoma tumors in mice suffering from lung or esophageal cancer. These mice were provided with merely 0.1% of their total caloric intake from carbohydrates. The efficacy of this dietary approach was further amplified when paired with the diabetes medication canagliflozin, demonstrating a synergistic effect on tumor suppression.

While the ketogenic diet did not result in the reduction of existing tumors, nor did the chemotherapy agent cisplatin, a combination of these two strategies proved beneficial in shrinking tumors. Interestingly, the ketogenic diet appeared to enhance the effectiveness of certain anticancer drugs, such as phosphoinositide 3-kinase inhibitors (PI3K inhibitors). This enhancement is believed to be linked to the ketogenic diet's ability to lower insulin levels in the body.

Impact of a Ketogenic Diet on Cancer in Humans

While animal studies present promising findings, research involving humans is still in its infancy and primarily consists of case analyses. Initial investigations suggest that adopting a ketogenic diet may lead to a reduction in tumor size and slow down the progression of specific cancers.

Research on Brain Cancer

A significant portion of cancer research focuses on glioblastomas, which are known for their aggressive nature. In 2010, a groundbreaking case study was published, exploring the effects of a combined approach using standard therapy alongside a restricted ketogenic diet for glioblastoma treatment. This case centered on a 65-year-old woman who, post-surgery, adhered to a very low-calorie ketogenic diet. Unfortunately, after 10 weeks of returning to a regular eating pattern, she saw a marked increase in tumor growth. Earlier case studies from 1995 investigated the effects of a ketogenic diet on two young girls undergoing treatment for advanced brain cancer, revealing a decrease in glucose uptake within the tumors of both subjects. One girl maintained the diet for a full year, during which her cancer did not progress. More recently, a 2018 study reinforced the idea that a ketogenic diet is safe and may augment the effects of conventional cancer therapies.

Research on Other Cancers

A 2018 randomized, controlled trial demonstrated that following a ketogenic diet for 12 weeks significantly improved the physical function of women diagnosed with ovarian or endometrial cancer. Some participants opted for the high-fiber, low-fat diet recommended by the American Cancer Society instead. Women adhering to the ketogenic plan were more likely to report enhancements in their ability to perform daily tasks, such as ascending stairs or moving furniture. Additional benefits included:

• increased energy levels
• reduced cravings for starchy foods and unhealthy fats often found in fast food, like pizza.

Furthermore, the ketogenic diet might positively influence the body composition of individuals battling various cancers.

A 2020 study involving 81 participants indicated benefits such as decreased fat mass in individuals with rectal or breast cancer, while preserving skeletal muscle mass. These improvements were observed while participants underwent radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or a combination of both, which are known to adversely impact body composition and appetite.

Quality of Life Study

In 2020, a quality-of-life randomized, controlled clinical trial explored the effects of a ketogenic diet on 80 individuals with advanced or metastatic breast cancer, excluding those with a history of kidney disease or diabetes. Participants were divided into a ketogenic diet group and a control group that did not follow any specific diet. After 12 weeks, a comparison of quality of life between the groups was made. Notably, by week 6, the ketogenic diet group reported a significantly better overall quality of life compared to the control group.

Keto Diet and Cancer Prevention

The ketogenic diet, known for its high-fat, low-carbohydrate approach, may play a significant role in preventing cancer development by addressing various critical risk factors.

Reduction in IGF-1 Levels

Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) is a vital hormone that facilitates cell growth and inhibits programmed cell death, subsequently influencing cancer progression and metastasis. Recent research conducted in 2024 on a 21-day ketogenic diet indicated a notable reduction in IGF-1 levels, which may mitigate insulin's direct influence on cellular proliferation. This reduction could potentially diminish tumor growth and lower cancer risk over an extended period.

Blood Sugar Management and Diabetes Control

There is growing evidence that links diabetes to an elevated risk of several cancers, including:

• Hepatocellular carcinoma
• Pancreatic cancer
• Endometrial cancer
• Colon cancer
• Rectal cancer
• Breast cancer
• Bladder cancer

A study published in 2019 revealed that the ketogenic diet could effectively lower blood sugar levels and assist in diabetes management in the short term. However, some individuals might find it difficult to maintain this diet over extended periods. Thus, further research is essential to evaluate the long-term safety of this dietary approach.

Potential to Reduce Obesity

A cohort study conducted in 2023 involving 2.6 million adults in Catalonia highlighted that obesity during early adulthood is linked to various health issues. Given that the ketogenic diet is a highly effective weight loss strategy, it may contribute to cancer risk reduction by preventing or alleviating obesity.

Potential Drawbacks for Individuals with Cancer

Despite some encouraging research findings, no health professional endorses the ketogenic diet for either preventing or treating cancer.

While the ketogenic diet may offer certain advantages, it also poses several risks:

• High in Fat: Numerous high-fat foods that are staples in this diet, like red meat (gosht), have been linked to an increased risk of particular cancers.
• Restrictive: The diet significantly restricts the intake of foods recognized for their cancer-fighting properties, including whole grains, various fruits, and selected vegetables.
• Potential for Weight Loss: Those receiving conventional cancer treatments may find it difficult to meet their caloric needs while adhering to this low-carb diet, which often leads to unintended weight loss.
• Low Adherence: The stringent limitations of this diet can sometimes be overwhelming for cancer patients, especially since food often serves as a source of comfort during treatment.

The ketogenic diet may not be suitable for everyone and could potentially lead to adverse effects.

Before considering the ketogenic diet as part of your cancer management plan, consult your healthcare team or a registered dietitian. They can assist in determining if this approach aligns with your needs and support you throughout your journey.

Key Takeaway

A ketogenic diet offers a multitude of health benefits. Research involving both animal studies and human trials suggests that this dietary approach may assist in treating or even preventing cancer. Nevertheless, it is crucial to acknowledge that research in this area is still evolving and developing. It is essential not to forego conventional cancer treatments in favor of alternative options like the ketogenic diet. Always adhere to the guidance provided by your oncologist, as mainstream medical interventions have proven effective for a variety of cancer types. Incorporating a ketogenic diet could serve as a beneficial adjunctive therapy, meaning it can complement traditional treatments. Consult with your oncologist or a registered dietitian to explore the feasibility of adopting this dietary approach.