Keto Diet Usable to Improve Cancer Therapy?

Can a special diet improve the treatment of cancer?

Researchers have now discovered that a so-called ketogenic diet seems to eliminate the side effects of a new generation of cancer drugs. This could contribute to improved treatment of cancer patients.

Researchers at the Meyer Cancer Center found in their current research that the keto diet can reverse the side effects of a new class of cancer medicines. The physicians published the results of their study in the English language journal "Nature".

A ketogenic diet contains few carbohydrates, but lots of protein and healthy fats. Apparently, a keto diet can reverse side effects of anti-cancer drugs. (Image: Syda Productions / fotolia.com)

New cancer drugs target a specific molecular pathway

In recent years, scientists have tested a new class of cancer drugs. These target a specific molecular pathway that has been proven to be defective in many types of cancer. In particular, these drugs target a cell signaling pathway known as phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K), which is activated by insulin. Previous studies have already shown that mutations in this kinase or enzyme are present in most tumors.

New drugs so far with strong side effects

A total of over 50 drugs have been developed in an effort to inhibit this pathway, with several clinical trials testing their effectiveness, say the experts. So far, however, the results of these experiments have been relatively disappointing. In most cases, the effectiveness of the drugs was low or their toxicity too high, explain the doctors.

Taking medication often leads to hyperglycemia

Taking these medications often leads to hyperglycemia or abnormally high blood sugar levels. This happens because inhibiting the pathway causes insulin to drop, which raises blood sugar levels, the researchers explain. If the pancreas is unable to make up for the loss by producing more insulin, patients should stop taking the medication. The new study may have found a way around this problem.

Keto diet improves effectiveness of new generation of therapies

The keto diet is currently very much in vogue. It includes a high-fat diet but very little carbohydrate. A ketogenic diet may be the best way to increase the effectiveness of this new generation of therapies and to avoid their side effects, the authors of the study explain. (As)