Ketogenic diet in cancer management

Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care. 2023 Jul 1;26(4):369-376. doi: 10.1097/MCO.0000000000000944. Epub 2023 May 9.

Abstract

Purpose of review: This review presents details about types of ketogenic diet (KD), anticancer mechanisms, and the use of KD in experimental and clinical studies. Studies summarized in this review provide a solid ground for researchers to consider the use of KD to augment conventional treatments.

Recent findings: KD is a dietary pattern composed of high fat, moderate proteins, and very-low-carbohydrate. This diet was suggested to have an anticancer effect and to augment conventional anticancer therapies. KD can target cancer cell by interfering with its metabolism without harming normal cells.

Summary: Several experimental and clinical studies support the use of KD as adjuvant therapy to treat different cancers.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Diet, Carbohydrate-Restricted
  • Diet, Ketogenic*
  • Dietary Carbohydrates
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms* / therapy

Substances

  • Dietary Carbohydrates