Does Sugar Really Feed Cancer?

By Shubhi Kumar
29 Apr 2025, 20:00 IST

The persistent myth that sugar directly fuels cancer growth can be alarming, but the reality is more nuanced. While cancer cells, like all others, use glucose for energy, your sweet tooth isn't directly causing tumours to thrive. Tap to read!

Sugar as fuel

All cells in the human body require glucose for energy and maintenance, including malignant ones. This simple sugar comes basically from the diet.

No evidence for direct causation

Research has failed to show a direct link between sugar in our diet and the rapid growth of cancer cells in the body.

Focus on an overall healthy diet

A more holistic approach involving an overall healthy diet would be rich in nutrients. Thus able to potentially combat cancer risk factors.

Blood sugar spikes

An increase in blood glucose level is rapid, resulting instead in metabolic imbalance in the body, if it remains consistent for a longer period.

Indirect links

An excessive amount may contribute to weight gain or obesity, which have long been recognised as significant indirect risk factors in the development of many different types of cancer.

Information credits

This information is sourced from the National Institute of Health (NIH). However, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for personalised suggestions.