How the Keto Diet May Help Fight Cancer
The ketogenic or "keto" diet has become widely popular for weight loss and managing conditions like diabetes. But emerging research shows keto may also have powerful anti-cancer effects.
Understanding Cancer Metabolism
Cancer cells multiply and spread uncontrollably by taking over energy production in the body. They thrive on high blood sugar, using it as fuel for rapid growth. Many cancers also inefficiently metabolize the energy source glucose.
This causes cancer cells to produce lots of toxic byproducts like lactic acid through a process called "aerobic glycolysis", also nicknamed the Warburg effect. The acidic, oxygen-depleted environment helps tumors aggressively invade tissues.
Starving Cancer Cells
The ketogenic diet is very low in carbohydrates and higher in healthy fats. This forces the body to burn fats rather than glucose for fuel through a process called ketosis.
Emerging research shows that switching away from using glucose may help "starve" cancer cells. Without its main power source, cancer may stop growing and spreading so rapidly.
Benefits of Keto for Cancer Patients
The promising effects of the ketogenic diet for cancer include:
Lowers Blood Glucose
Removing excess sugars from the diet decreases glucose available to feed tumors' rapid growth and decreases insulin, a hormone seen to fuel cancer progression.
Increases Ketone Bodies
Keto boosts circulation of ketone bodies. Emerging studies like this one published in 2021 indicates that these ketones may help selectively kill off cancer cells while sparing normal, healthy tissues.
Enhances Response to Therapies
Keto may make conventional cancer therapies like chemotherapy and radiation more effective against malignant cells. In some cases, it allows lower therapeutic doses to achieve desired outcomes.
Improves Quality of Life
The majority of studies evaluating keto for cancer patients found significant improvements in conditions like fatigue, weakness, nausea, low mood, pain, and more compared to standard diets.
Keto Diet Guidelines for Cancer
Here are some tips for using keto specifically to help address cancer:
Get Monitored
Careful oversight is essential, as keto carries risks like nutrient deficiencies, electrolyte imbalances and dehydration. Work with your healthcare team to have lab work checked routinely.
Meal Plan Ahead
Planning weekly keto meals that meet unique nutrition needs saves time and effort. Prep ingredients ahead to have easy snacks and quick recipes on hand.
Supplement Wisely
Addressing any individual supplement needs can optimize nutritional status for fighting cancer. Common recommendations include vitamin D, fish oil, curcumin and digestive enzymes.
Reduce Inflammation
Chronic inflammation makes cancer progression worse, so limiting inflammatory foods can improve odds. Avoid excess red meat, low-quality dairy and processed oils.
Support Energy Levels
Cancer-related fatigue can be devastating. Make sure keto calories and nutrients are sufficient to sustain energy needs each day with adequate protein, minerals and electrolytes.
10 Keto-Friendly Anti-Cancer Recipes
Here are 10 delicious yet nutritious ketogenic recipes ideal for cancer patients:
1. Baked Salmon Cakes with Dill Aioli
Omega-3's in salmon and avocado's anti-inflammatory fats paired with gut-friendly dill and pastured eggs.
2. Roasted Chicken Soup with Turmeric
Soothing homemade bone broth-based soup with turmeric's antioxidant curcumin to target cancer growth.
3. Zoodles with Creamy Avocado Pesto
Fresh zucchini "zoodles" served with a nutrient-packed pesto of healthy fats from olive oil and avocado.
4. Keto Egg Drop Soup
An easy Asian soup exploding with flavors from bone broth, eggs, mushrooms and ginger.
5. Coconut Chai Chia Pudding
Anti-inflammatory chai spices like turmeric and ginger amp up nutrition in this creamy coconut milk chia pud.6. Baked Cauliflower Tots with Ghee
Crunchy baked cauliflower florets lend well to customizable seasoning blends served with clarified ghee.
7. Kale Avocado Salad with Lemon Dressing
A hearty salad of kale and avocado topped with hemp seeds, nuts and a tangy lemon vinaigrette.8. Bunless Greek Lamb Burger with Tzatziki
Lean New Zealand lamb makes a perfect burger patty paired with cucumber tzatziki sauce.
9. Blueberry Coconut Smoothie
Blend antioxidant-rich blueberries with coconut milk, collagen peptides and healthy fats for nutrients in drinkable form.
10. Asian Stir Fry with Cauliflower Rice
Fresh stir fried veggies like bok choy, carrots and snap peas over riced cauliflower instead of starchy white rice.
Is Keto Right for You?
Research indicates huge potential for ketogenic nutritional strategies to help fight cancer. But keto is still considered experimental and should be used under professional guidance based on your unique case.
Talk to your integrative cancer specialist about whether a well-formulated keto or modified keto diet may be beneficial as an adjunct support for other therapies you may be undergoing.
FAQs
Is the keto diet safe for cancer patients?
Keto can be safe when properly managed under supervision. Get lab work monitored, stay hydrated, supplement wisely and work with a healthcare provider experienced in using keto for cancer.
What should cancer patients avoid eating on keto?
Avoid sugar, refined grains, starchy vegetables, processed foods, low quality dairy and meat, seed oils, and artificial ingredients. Prioritize whole, nutrient-dense foods to nourish the body.
Will keto interfere with chemotherapy or radiation?
In most cases keto is safe to use alongside conventional therapies. Some data indicates keto may improve the efficacy of standard treatments. But always discuss any diet changes with your medical team.
Why do cancer patients need specialized meal plans?
Cancer patients have unique nutritional needs related to healing and side effects. Keto cancer meal plans help tailor carbohydrate, protein and calorie targets while ensuring adequate vitamins and minerals are provided through food.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
Related Coverage
Provolone cheese fits perfectly into the high fat, low carb keto diet. Learn about the benefits, nutrition facts, and how to add provolone to keto meals....
Paprika contains around 1g net carb per teaspoon, allowing it to be included in a low-carb keto diet. See how it fits into keto macros and tips for use....
Plantar fasciitis can indirectly cause calf pain through referred pain or secondary calf tightness. Treating the foot condition often provides calf relief....
Hummus is made from chickpeas which are too high in carbs for keto. But you can still enjoy keto-friendly hummus made with low-carb vegetables as the base....
Learn if it's safe to cut your Lexapro pill in half, why doctors may advise it, proper techniques to split tablets accurately, and risks to avoid....
Learn how to effectively complete the 3-step Bright On Pro whitening system. Follow proper usage instructions for maximum stain removal and a brighter smile....
Stick to your keto diet at Cracker Barrel by ordering eggs, meat, fish, salad, and low carb sides. Avoid biscuits, syrup, pasta, and potatoes for a low carb meal....
Can you eat fat free cream cheese on keto? With 4g net carbs per serving, it can fit into the diet in moderation. Learn how to incorporate it along with healthy fats....
Wondering if you can drink Celsius energy drinks while following a keto diet? This article outlines the carb count and keto-friendliness of different Celsius options....
Russell Crowe, Penn Jillette and other celebrities raise ethical concerns over circumcising baby boys without consent, impacting public views on the common but controversial procedure....