Starving Cancer Cells: New Research from Germany Looks Promising

Cancer cells need carbohydrates in order to survive. When deprived of this source of energy, researchers at the British Columbia Cancer Research Center found that mice recovered without the use of chemotherapy or radiation. Using the Ketogenic Diet, even hard core cancers such as brain tumors, respond well to metabolic therapy. Thomas Seyfried, Ph.D. advises that by restricting circulating glucose, cancer cells may be completely starved and diminished. This is wonderful news for those who tend to be frail, and or allergic to the chemicals found in chemotherapy.

The Ketogenic diet consists of moderate amounts of quality protein and healthy fats, such as coconut oil and avocado. Olive oil, eggs and other quality foods are also allowed. The hard part is: No carbs. This means cutting out all breads, all pastas, all sweets and high-starch veggies such as potatoes. For Americans, raised on Wonder Bread and Twinkies, this might be quite harsh to follow. Compared, however to the effects of chemotherapy and radiation, it is a sacrifice well worth making.

German Researchers from Wurzburgs University Hospital have recently reviewed this in their journal of Nutrition and Metabolism. They point to the promising research and suggest that a low carb diet (or better yet, NO carb diet) might also prevent many cancers from forming.

More time and research is needed, but for those of us who have seen a loved one endure the torture of chemo and its affects on the body (My Grandmother had cancer 3 times),these studies look promising indeed. However, since long term studies have not proven complete remission, it is always wise to research and expand your circle of support to include those who have successfully overcome the particular type of cancer you are facing.