Can the Keto Diet Improve Cancer Treatment?
This story is part of a larger series on the top health trends and how they could impact cancer patients and their families.
The ketogenic diet has gained widespread attention in recent years, especially in the context of weight loss and managing certain medical conditions. However, its potential role in cancer care is also a topic of increasing interest.
Sylvia Crowder, PhD, a dietary and nutrition expert in Moffitt Cancer Center’s Department of Health Outcomes and Behavior, discusses the ketogenic diet, its benefits for cancer patients and the ongoing research that might shape its future role in treatment plans.
Sylvia Crowder, PhD
The ketogenic, or keto, diet is a high-fat, low-carbohydrate eating plan designed to induce a metabolic state called ketosis, in which the body burns fat for energy instead of carbohydrates.
This diet typically consists of 70% to 80% fat, 20% to 25% protein and just 5% to10% carbohydrates. The goal is to shift the body's energy source from glucose to ketones, which are molecules derived from fat.
It’s a highly restrictive diet that limits many types of fruits, vegetables and grains, and is primarily known for its potential benefits in weight loss and blood sugar control.
“While the ketogenic diet has been widely used for various health purposes, its potential benefits for cancer patients are still being explored,” Crowder said. “Early research, particularly in animal models and small human trials, suggests that the ketogenic diet may help slow tumor growth, enhance the effects of certain cancer treatments and improve the quality of life for patients.”
Crowder emphasizes that while the research is promising, it is still inconclusive.
“Human studies are in their infancy and much more work is needed to fully understand how the ketogenic diet might interact with cancer cells and traditional treatments like chemotherapy and radiation,” she said.
That said, some cancer types, including pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer, glioblastoma and certain brain cancers, have shown promising results in animal studies when subjected to a ketogenic diet.
“The diet’s potential to impact cancer cells stems from its ability to induce ketosis. By restricting carbohydrates, the ketogenic diet reduces glucose levels, which can create an unfavorable environment for cancer cells,” Crowder added.
Many cancer cells are highly reliant on glucose for growth and survival and by depriving them of this key fuel source, the ketogenic diet may help slow their growth.
Despite the potential benefits, there are several risks and challenges associated with the ketogenic diet, especially for cancer patients.
“The restrictive nature of the diet limits important sources of fiber, vitamins and minerals, like fruits, whole grains and some vegetables, increasing the risk of nutrient deficiencies,” Crowder said. “For cancer patients, this can lead to unintended weight loss, muscle wasting and ultimately impact overall health and treatment outcomes.”
Crowder and her team continue to explore the potential of the ketogenic diet in cancer care.
A Moffitt study is set to begin in May 2025, focusing on the feasibility and acceptability of the ketogenic diet for patients undergoing CAR T-cell therapy. This study will be a key step in understanding how the ketogenic diet can fit into cancer treatment plans.
For cancer patients interested in trying the keto diet, Crowder stresses the importance of working closely with their oncology team and a registered dietitian.
“The diet is not a one-size-fits-all solution and a comprehensive assessment of the patient’s medical history, nutritional status and potential contraindications is crucial. A personalized approach is necessary to ensure that the diet is safe and beneficial for everyone,” she said.
