5 days Ago By Supriya Ramesh
The most common question that troubles many individuals is whether sugar has a connection to their fear of developing cancer. Sugar intake is so significant in most diets that understanding its impact on health, especially regarding cancer, becomes essential. While sugar is an essential energy source, excessive consumption can result in severe health complications.
"Most of our cells’ fuel is sugar, primarily glucose," says Dr Dimple Jangda, Gut Specialist, Author, and Founder of Prana by Dimple. "Research indicates that cancer cells metabolise more glucose than regular cells, but this does not mean that consuming sugar directly leads to cancer. However, added sugars contribute to obesity, which is a significant risk factor for various types of cancer.
" The Link Between High Sugar Intake and Cancer Dr Jangda says that high sugar consumption is associated with increased body weight and metabolic conditions. “These conditions are often linked with inflammation and hormonal imbalances, which can encourage tumour growth,” she explains. Although sugar itself is not a carcinogen, excessive sugar can create a state conducive to cancer development.
Ayurvedic Perspective: Balance Is Key Ayurveda, according to Dr Jangda, focuses on achieving balance for optimal health. “Natural sugars derived from fruits and whole foods are beneficial, while the addition of refined sugars is detrimental,” she states. Here are some Ayurvedic strategies to manage sugar levels: Natural Intake of Sweeteners: “Use natural sweeteners like honey or jaggery instead of processed sugar,” advises Dr Jangda.
These alternatives provide not only sweetness but also essential nutrients. Add Anti-Inflammatory Foods: “Incorporate turmeric, ginger, and dark leafy greens into your diet. These foods can help reduce inflammation and may counteract some of the harmful effects of sugar,” she recommends.
Stick to a Balanced Diet: “A diet rich in whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds supplies necessary nutrients to support good health,” notes Dr Jangda. Practice Mindful Eating: “Mindful eating encourages you to be aware of what and how much you consume,” she says. This approach can help curb sugar cravings and foster a healthier relationship with food.
Apply Detoxification Techniques: Dr Jangda suggests, “Drinking herbal teas such as dandelion or nettle tea can assist your body in processing and eliminating excess sugar.” The Evidence on Sugar and Cancer Risk Over the years, research has shown that high sugar intake can elevate the risk of developing cancer. “Diets rich in refined sugars are linked to an increased risk of certain cancers, such as breast and colorectal cancer,” Dr Jangda points out.
High-fructose diets may also trigger inflammation and metabolic imbalances that promote tumour growth. While added sugars, particularly from processed foods, should be limited, natural sugars in fruits—containing beneficial fibre and digestible compounds—can be consumed in moderation. Striking the Right Balance “Sugar is undoubtedly an important energy source for our bodies,” Dr Jangda acknowledges.
But excessive intake, she says especially in refined forms, predisposes us to cancer through mechanisms involving obesity and inflammation. Embracing Ayurvedic principles such as natural sweeteners, anti-inflammatory foods, balanced eating, and detoxification practices can enhance gut health and overall well-being. “It’s not about cutting out sugar completely,” she concludes.
It’s about making smarter dietary choices that nourish the body and help reduce cancer risks. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Health and around the world..
