Hi,
I have just recently had part of my Colon removed and are due to start Chemotherapy in a few weeks time. A friend recently told my partner that I should avoid sugary foods and beer as ‘Cancer loves sugar’. Is there any truth in this’
Thanks for being there
Stu F
Hi Stu,
I’m Kirsty one of the cancer information nurse specialists that work on the Macmillan support line. Thanks for getting in touch. I can see that you have joined our bowel cancer forum and hope that you are finding our online community both welcoming and supportive.
Hopefully you are recovering well from surgery, as you begin to look ahead to the next part of your treatment plan.
It is a common myth that sugar feeds cancer. There is no evidence to suggest that sugar increases the risk of cancer or encourages it to grow. All cells in our bodies need energy/glucose to survive.
You might find it helpful to read information on does sugar feed cancer from the Macmillan website and also sugar and cancer information from the cancer research website.
Our advice is to eat a healthy balanced diet as there is evidence to suggest that being overweight can increase your risk of developing a few cancer types.
Best wishes
Kirsty, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.
Ref/LB
