Cancer Support - Naturopathic Approach: Ketogenic Diet and Fasting

Question 1

What is the macronutrient ratio in a ketogenic diet?

Answer 1

Approximately 75% fat, 20% protein, 5% carbohydrate.

Question 2

How does a ketogenic diet help in cancer?

Answer 2

It deprives tumours of glucose, reduces insulin/mTOR signalling, and promotes anti-cancer metabolism.

Question 3

Which fats are recommended in a ketogenic diet for cancer?

Answer 3

MUFAs (olive oil, avocado), omega-3s (flax, hemp), small amounts of saturated fats (coconut oil).

Question 4

Which cancers show strongest evidence for ketogenic diet benefits?

Answer 4

Glioblastoma, lung, prostate, colon, and pancreatic cancers.

Question 5

What are Fasting Mimicking Diets (FMDs)?

Answer 5

Low-calorie, plant-based diets that simulate fasting effects without complete food restriction.

Question 6

Why are FMDs preferred over full fasting in cancer patients?

Answer 6

They avoid risks of weight loss and cachexia while offering metabolic benefits.

Question 7

How do FMDs affect normal cells vs cancer cells?

Answer 7

Normal cells enter a stress-resistant mode; cancer cells remain vulnerable to treatment.

Question 8

What metabolic changes are induced by fasting/FMDs?

Answer 8

Lower glucose, insulin, IGF-1, leptin; increased adiponectin, AMPK activity, autophagy, sirtuins.

Question 9

What is cancer cachexia?

Answer 9

A syndrome in cancer patients characterised by weight loss, muscle wasting, and high inflammation.

Question 10

Which nutrients help counter cancer cachexia?

Answer 10

EPA, DHA (omega-3s), and carnitine (~3g/day).