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Cancer is a disease that seriously threatens human health, and the relationship between sugar and cancer has been of great concern.
Many people believe that cancer cells can be "starved" by cutting off sugar, so as to achieve the purpose of preventing and fighting cancer.
Is this claim scientific? Can Quitting Sugar Really Fight Cancer?
Dr. Li was sitting in the consultation room, flipping through the medical records in his hand. At this time, a middle-aged woman pushed the door open, anxiety and uneasiness written on her face.
"Dr. Li, I'm Aunt Zhang. Recently I heard that fasting sugar can prevent cancer and even treat cancer. I have a history of cancer in my family, so I am very worried that I will get cancer as well. Can you tell me if that's true? Aunt Zhang asked eagerly.
Dr. Li put down the medical records in his hand and smiled and motioned for Aunt Zhang to sit down. "Aunt Zhang, I understand your concern. There are indeed many theories about the relationship between sugar fasting and cancer. Let's talk about it. ”
Aunt Zhang nodded and sat down. Dr. Lee continued, "We need to understand that sugar is indeed one of the important sources of energy needed for cancer cells to grow. But that doesn't mean that cutting off sugar completely will stop cancer cells from growing or cure cancer. ”
"Then why do some people say that sugar cutting can cure cancer?" Aunt Zhang asked suspiciously.
Dr. Lee explains: "This claim may stem from a misunderstanding of some scientific research. Cancer cells do rely more on sugar to grow and multiply than normal cells. However, our body's cells also need sugar to function properly. Not only does a complete sugar weaning fail to achieve the desired results, but it can also cause harm to the body. ”
Aunt Zhang nodded thoughtfully, "How should we correctly view the relationship between sugar and cancer?" ”
Dr. Lee stood up, walked to the chart on the wall, pointed to the data on it, and said, "According to the World Health Organization, excessive intake of added sugars is indeed associated with an increased risk of several cancers. For example, a study involving 100,000 people showed that people who consumed more than 25 grams of added sugars per day had a 10% higher risk of certain cancers than those who consumed lower amounts. ”
"So, it's still important to control sugar intake?" Aunt Zhang asked.
Dr. Lee nodded in affirmation, "That's right." Controlling sugar intake in moderation can really help prevent cancer. But the key is the word 'moderation'. We should be careful to reduce the intake of added sugars, rather than completely eliminating all sugars. ”
Aunt Zhang showed a look of sudden realization, "Doctor Li, can you give me some specific advice?" How can I control my sugar intake? ”
Dr. Lee walked back to his seat and patiently replied, "I recommend that you eat more whole foods such as fresh vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. These foods contain complex carbohydrates, which not only provide essential energy, but are also rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. ”
"Try to avoid or reduce your intake of sugary drinks, desserts, processed foods. These foods often contain a lot of added sugars, which not only contribute to obesity but may also increase the risk of cancer. ”
"When cooking, try substituting natural flavors for sugar. For example, use fresh fruits, herbs, etc., to add flavor to food. ”
Auntie Zhang carefully jotted down these suggestions, and then asked, "Is there anything else that can help prevent cancer besides controlling sugar intake?" ”
Dr. Lee smiled and replied, "I'm glad you asked this question. In addition to controlling your diet, it is equally important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. ”
"Regular exercise is one of the effective ways to prevent cancer. Studies have shown that 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week can significantly reduce the risk of many types of cancer. ”
"Maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, getting enough sleep, and getting vitamin D in the sun are all good habits that can help prevent cancer."
"Regular medical check-ups are also important. Early detection and early treatment are the keys to improving the cure rate of cancer. ”
After listening to Aunt Zhang, the anxiety on her face was significantly reduced. "Thank you, Dr. Lee. Your explanation has given me a clearer idea of how to prevent cancer. I'm going to try to improve my habits. ”
Dr. Li said with relief, "Aunt Zhang, I'm glad you have such an idea. Remember, cancer prevention doesn't happen overnight, it's a healthy lifestyle that needs to be adhered to over time. If you still have any questions, please feel free to come to me. ”
Aunt Zhang nodded gratefully and got up to leave. Dr. Li got up to see him off and told him at the door, "Aunt Zhang, a healthy lifestyle can indeed reduce the risk of cancer, but there is no need to be overly anxious. It's equally important to maintain an optimistic and positive mindset. Wishing you good health! ”
Aunt Zhang smiled goodbye to Dr. Li and left the consultation room with brisk steps.
Through the dialogue between Dr. Li and Aunt Zhang, we can clearly understand that sugar abstinence cannot "starve" cancer cells, nor can we rely on sugar cessation alone to prevent or fight cancer. Cancer prevention requires us to start from many aspects, including controlling sugar intake, maintaining a balanced diet, exercising, quitting smoking and limiting alcohol.
We also need to recognize that worrying too much can lead to unnecessary psychological stress. Maintaining a positive and optimistic attitude, coupled with a healthy lifestyle, is the right direction for cancer prevention.
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