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Conquering Cancer with a Therapeutic Ketogenic Diet
The term "Ketogenic Diet" is derived from the bodily process known as ketosis. The premise of the ketogenic diet is that if you deprive the body of glucose as the main source of energy, which is obtained by eating carbohydrate foods, an alternative fuel called ketones are produced from stored fat (thus, the term keto-genic).
Why is the Therapeutic Ketogenic Diet such an important tool to combat cancer? Cancer cells feed on glucose, and in the absence of glucose the cancer cells cannot feed and grow. They will begin to starve and die off.
Therapeutic Ketosis should be the cornerstone of any cancer treatment.
How does this therapy work?
During fasting, or when one consumes less than 50 grams of carbohydrates a day, the body first pulls stored glucose from the liver and temporarily breaks down muscle to release glucose. If this continues for 3-4 days and stored glucose is fully depleted, blood levels of a hormone called insulin decrease, and the body begins to use fat as its primary fuel. The liver produces ketone bodies from fat, which can be used in the absence of glucose.(1)
During ketosis, stored body fat is broken down to produce energy and this results in a drop in blood sugar levels. This is the critical therapeutic step in this process. In the absence of food for the cancer cells, they will begin to starve and die off. (2)
The ketogenic or “keto” diet is a low-carbohydrate, fat-rich eating plan that has been used for centuries to treat specific medical conditions. In the 19th century, the ketogenic diet was commonly used to help control diabetes. In 1920 it was introduced as an effective treatment for epilepsy in children in whom medication was ineffective. The ketogenic diet has also been tested and used in closely monitored settings for cancer, diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Using the Therapeutic Ketogenic Diet as the cornerstone of a cancer treatment, any and all glucose/sugars must be avoided at all costs. Additionally, all sweeteners must be eliminated other than Stevia. Limiting the amount of carbohydrates is also very important, aim to consume less than 30-50 grams per day. Calories are to come from fats, proteins, and leafy green vegetables. (3)
The stricter the food intake can be, the more optimal results will be realised.
Furthermore, a general caloric restriction is recommended and total caloric intake should be in the range of 1200 calories per day for the first 30 days of treatment. It is also advisable to abstain from eating until one is hungry rather than eating on a schedule. At least 2-3 days per week should avoid a morning meal and allow the body to fast until mid day.
All forms of alcohol are absolutely prohibited for at least 90 days.
Here is a list of recommended foods:
- Healthy Fats
- Proteins
- Leafy Greens (raw)
- Cooked greens
Acceptable Carbohydrates: A variety of berries including blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries in amounts not to exceed one handful per day.
Dairy: high fat plain greek yoghurt, whipping cream (perfect for morning coffee) NOTE: if a sensitivity to dairy exists this should obviously be avoided.
Here is a list foods to avoid/eliminate:
Understanding and avoiding specific foods can be pivotal in managing inflammation, recovery, and blood glucose spikes.
- Seed Oils
- Whey Protein
- Tap Water
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Veggies to avoid: Potatoes, sweet potatoes, yams, onions (in large amounts), corn, carrots, and beets
Contact us TODAY to learn how to apply a Therapeutic Ketogenic diet in your life.
References:
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Paoli A, Rubini A, Volek JS, Grimaldi KA. Beyond weight loss: a review of the therapeutic uses of very-low-carbohydrate (ketogenic) diets. Eur J Clin Nutr. 2013 Aug;67(8):789.
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Gupta L, Khandelwal D, Kalra S, Gupta P, Dutta D, Aggarwal S. Ketogenic diet in endocrine disorders: Current perspectives. J Postgrad Med. 2017 Oct;63(4):242.
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"Glycemic Restriction in Cancer Patients: A 7-Year, Controlled Interventional Study", Cancer Strategies Journal - Spring 2014, Dr. Colleen Huber, ND, https://sciforschenonline.org/journals/cancer-research/IJCRMM-2-127.php
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