Claims that sugar causes cancer frequently circulate on social media, but a cancer specialist says this belief is misleading and not supported by current scientific evidence.
Consultant surgical oncologist Dr. Vartika Vishwani explained in a recent video that there is no scientific proof that eating chocolate, cakes, pastries, or other sugary foods directly causes cancer.
According to Dr. Vishwani, social media is filled with unverified health claims, and people should rely on scientific research rather than believing every viral post.
She addressed a common misconception based on PET scan images, where some people argue that because cancer cells absorb glucose, sugar is “food” for cancer. Dr. Vishwani explained that this is not unique to cancer cells. All active cells in the body—including those in the brain, kidneys, and intestines—use glucose for energy, which is why these organs also appear prominently on PET scans.
She further noted that eliminating sugar or carbohydrates entirely does not starve cancer cells. Instead, the body begins breaking down muscles and other tissues to produce the energy it needs. As a result, simply cutting out sugar will not kill cancer cells.
Dr. Vishwani emphasized that while cancer cells consume more energy because they grow rapidly, this does not mean fasting or extreme dietary restrictions can treat cancer. In fact, such practices may weaken patients and negatively affect their overall health.
She added that excessive sugar intake, obesity, and metabolic disorders can increase the risk of several health problems. Some metabolic conditions may also raise the long-term risk of developing cancer. However, this increased risk is linked to an individual’s overall lifestyle rather than sugar consumption alone.
The cancer expert also warned against avoiding balanced meals, fruits, whole grains, and home-cooked food in the belief that they feed cancer.
According to Dr. Vishwani, the key to good health lies in moderation and a balanced diet—not in blaming a single food for every disease.