The question of whether a tumor patient can eat sugar is a common one, but the answer is not simple. Sugar is an important source of energy for humans, and for oncologists, their bodies may need more energy to fight cancer. However, the relationship between sugar intake and tumor growth is also of concern.
Relationship of sugar to tumor growth
The basic function of sugar: Sugar is the main source of energy for humans, especially the brain and the red cell, which relies almost entirely on glucose for energy. Thus, even during the treatment of cancer, the patient needs an appropriate amount of sugar to maintain normal physiological function.
Sugar metabolism of tumour cells: A characteristic of tumour cells is their high demand for glucose. They quickly acquire energy through a process called sugar yeast, even if there is enough oxygen. This phenomenon has been referred to as the “voburg effect”.
Sugar and tumour growth: It has been suggested that high sugar diets may contribute to tumour growth as it provides the energy needed for tumour cells. However, this does not mean that eating sugar leads directly to cancer, but that over-ingestion can increase the growth of the tumor.
Sugar intake advice for oncological patients
A balanced diet: The diet of patients with tumours should be balanced, including appropriate sugar, protein and fat. Sugar should come mainly from composite carbohydrates such as whole grains, vegetables and fruits, rather than from refined sugar.
Limited sugar: Oncology patients should limit the intake of refined sugar, such as sweet drinks, candy, cakes and cookies. These foods contain high quantities of sugar, but low nutritional value may lead to a rapid rise in blood sugar levels.
Blood sugar control: Control of sugar intake is particularly important for tumour patients with diabetes mellitus or other blood sugar control problems, in order to maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Special consideration for oncological patients
Treatment impact: Cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy and treatment, may affect the appetite and digestive capacity of patients. In these cases, appropriate sugar can help provide energy and reduce body weight.
Nutritional support: If oncological patients suffer from malnutrition or loss of weight, additional nutritional support may be required, including appropriate sugar.
How to rationalize sugar intake
Counselling professionals: The diet plan for an oncological patient shall be developed by the nutritionist according to the patient ‘ s specific circumstances. The nutritionist takes into account the patient ‘ s treatment plan, physical condition and nutritional needs.
Adequate intake: Oncological patients should follow the nutritionist ‘ s guidance and take appropriate sugar to avoid overdose.
Surveillance of blood sugar: For patients who need to monitor blood sugar, blood sugar levels should be regularly checked and sugar intake adjusted in accordance with the doctor ‘ s recommendations.
Conclusions
Oncological patients can eat sugar, but the following principles should be observed:
Selection of healthy sources of sugar: Priority is given to composite carbohydrates, such as whole grains, vegetables and fruits, rather than refined sugar.
Restriction of refined sugar: Reduced intake of sweet drinks, sweets and high sugar foods.
Individualized diet: a personalized diet plan is developed in collaboration with the nutritionist, in accordance with the individual ‘ s health status and therapeutic response.
Nutritional support: During treatment, if malnutrition occurs, additional nutritional support may be required, including appropriate sugar.
In short, oncological patients do not need to completely avoid sugar, but should consciously choose a healthy sugar source and control the total intake of sugar. Through a reasonable diet, oncological patients can maintain good nutritional status and support the body against cancer.
