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I often get asked about the effects of sugar on cancer, and I read about it on many blogs as well. I enjoy doing research, so I started looking into whether sugar plays a role in cancer. First, it is important to understand that sugar is not a carcinogen (cancer-causing substance). However, several studies suggest that sugar can influence cancer in other ways.
According to an article published in the National Library of Medicine, “High glucose levels may affect the growth of GBM (a type of brain tumor) by increasing cell survival, spread, insulin receptor expression, and cell growth.” (Bielecka-Wajdman et al., 2022). Additionally, the Brain Tumor Research Website states, “scientists have clarified how the Warburg effect, a phenomenon in which cancer cells rapidly break down sugars, stimulates tumor growth. This discovery provides evidence for a positive correlation between sugar and cancer.” (BRAIN TUMOUR RESEARCH, 2017) Further research from the University of California references several studies that also show a correlation between sugar and cancer, particularly GBM. They state, “A retrospective study of newly diagnosed patients with Grade 4 Glioblastoma showed a direct correlation between survival time and blood glucose levels.” (UCSF, 2024)
Obviously, it is impossible to cut out all sugar, and most people should make healthy choices, especially when facing one of the deadliest cancers. I have a sweet tooth and will always have a sweet tooth, with or without cancer. I have chosen to fulfill that sweet tooth with Manuka Honey. Manuka honey is healthier than sugar or sweeteners and comes from the earth, which I feel better about. According to an article, “the possible mechanisms are due to its apoptotic, antiproliferative, antitumor necrosis factor (anti-TNF), antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, estrogenic and immunomodulatory activities.” (Ahmed & Othman, 2013).
While sugar is not directly cancer-causing, multiple studies indicate it can influence cancer growth and progression. High glucose levels may impact GBM development and patient survival times. However, more research is needed to understand these mechanisms fully. Making healthier choices, like opting for natural sweeteners such as Manuka honey, might be beneficial, especially for those battling cancer. I am convinced that sugar fuels cancer, so I am determined to avoid it at all costs. I have drastically limited my sugar intake, and when cravings strike, I choose natural sweeteners like honey to satisfy my sweet tooth.
Cited Material
Ahmed, S., & Othman, N. H. (2013). Honey as a potential natural anticancer agent: A review of its mechanisms. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine: eCAM. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3865795/
Bielecka-Wajdman, A. M., Ludyga, T., Smyk, D., Smyk, W., Mularska, M., Świderek, P., Majewski, W., Mullins, C. S., Linnebacher, M., & Obuchowicz, E. (2022). Glucose influences the response of glioblastoma cells to temozolomide and dexamethasone. Cancer control: journal of the Moffitt Cancer Center. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8891890/
BRAIN TUMOUR RESEARCH. (2017, October 17). Scientists reveal the relationship between sugar and cancer. Brain Tumor Research. https://braintumourresearch.org/en-us/blogs/latest-news/scientists-reveal-the-relationship-between-sugar-and-cancer
UCSF. (n.d.). Sugar and cancer. UCSF Osher Center for Integrative Health. https://osher.ucsf.edu/patient-care/integrative-medicine-resources/cancer-and-nutrition/faq/sugar-and-cancer
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