Mesothelioma Diet Tips: Should Patients Avoid Sugar?

One of the goals for people diagnosed with mesothelioma is to help make sure they maintain a healthy diet.

How much sugar should patients consume? Should patients avoid sugar altogether, or are there types of sugar that are better than others? 

Experts at MD Anderson Cancer Center published an article about the risks and benefits of sugar for cancer patients. BCBH Law compiled this blog to help people with mesothelioma.

Below are a few things to know and consider. 

Types of Sugar

We must first understand there are two common types of sugar: natural sugars and added sugars.

Natural sugars are found in fruits, whole grains, and vegetables. Added sugars are added to drinks and foods. They can be found in but not limited to processed foods such as cakes, cookies, chips, and sodas. 

Natural Sugars vs. Added Sugars

The body breaks down both natural and added sugars in the same way. Natural sugars are found in complex carbohydrates, which are broken down at a slower rate than added sugars. Added sugars may consist of extra calories and can cause a spike in blood sugar.

Natural sugars are better for people with cancer such as mesothelioma. These don’t cause spikes in blood sugar and can protect organs such as the heart and kidneys.

Mesothelioma patients should prioritize natural sugars from fruits, whole grains, and vegetables over added sugars from cakes, cookies, chips, sodas and other salty or sweet foods and drinks.

Does Sugar Cause Mesothelioma to Spread?

No, sugar does not cause mesothelioma to spread. Mesothelioma grows and spreads as tumor cells multiply rapidly and live beyond their usual lifespan. This leads to a bulk of tumor cells that spreads like a sheet.

However, patients are advised to consume sugar in moderation. Not limiting added sugar intake can increase chances of inflammation and cause empty calorie consumption.

Limiting the amount of sugar intake can also help strengthen the immune system. People with mesothelioma receiving immunotherapy or chemotherapy treatment will benefit from a stronger immune system.

Should I Remove Sugar From My Mesothelioma Diet?

No, you should not remove sugar from your mesothelioma diet.

Completely removing sugar from your diet can be challenging. Numerous foods contain sugar. A lot depends on how much sugar you eat and the type of sugar you prioritize. Sugar from fruits and vegetables can be a healthy source of calories. Added sugar from sweet or salty foods can be less helpful by contributing to inflammation in the body and causing blood sugar spikes.

According to MD Anderson, moderation is key. Mesothelioma patients should consume sugar in moderation and maintain a balanced diet. Create a mesothelioma diet that mostly consists of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and protein. If those foods include sugar, then it is likely the good kind.

Sources

Should cancer patients avoid sugar? 5 things to know. MD Anderson Cancer Center. Retrieved from: https://www.mdanderson.org/cancerwise/sugar-and-cancer-treatment–4-things-patients-should-know-.h00-159144456.html. Accessed: 11/03/2024.