It seems possible that a ketogenic diet could help reduce the progression of cancer because it causes a rapid decrease in blood sugar levels (2, 3 , 4 ). A ketogenic diet can lower blood sugar levels. This may help reduce tumor growth and even starve cancer cells of energy.
Secondly, can cancer survive on ketones?
Unlike healthy tissues, cancer cells cannot efficiently process ketone bodies for energy. Ketones also slow the proliferation of tumor cells.
In this regard, what is the best diet for a cancer patient? Your best bet is to stick with a balanced diet with lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy. Limit your sugar, caffeine, salt, and alcohol.
Also, which cancers feed on ketones?
2.1. Types of ketogenic diets
| Tumor type | Animal model | Glucose and ketone levels |
|---|---|---|
| Pancreatic cancer | athymic nude mice | ? glucose, ? BHB |
| C57BL/6 mice | ? glucose | |
| C57BL/6 mice | ? BHB | |
| Colon cancer | NMR1 mice | ? glucose, ? BHB |