During a serious disease like kidney cancer, many types of misleading information regarding diet and claims of ‘Miracle Diet’ are made on social media. Often patients and their families dream of eradicating cancer with the help of some herb or special food item, but how true are these claims on the basis of medical science? Dr. Kapil Goyal, Consultant Medical Oncologist, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute, has scientifically analyzed five such big myths related to kidney cancer. Myth 1: A certain food or herb cures cancer The most popular myth is that a certain food, herb or supplement can cure cancer. The truth is that there are currently no foods or supplements that are capable of treating cancer. The primary treatment is as directed by the doctor. A balanced diet is only helpful in giving strength to the body and increasing the speed of recovery, and not in treating cancer. Myth 2: Cancer cells grow faster by eating sugar. It is often said that cancer cells thrive on sugar, so the only protection is to give it up. The truth is that every healthy cell in the body also needs glucose for energy. Simply giving up sugar does not stop the growth of cancer. Although excess sugar and processed foods are harmful for health, it is wrong to consider it as the sole cause of cancer. Myth 3: Only certain foods cause kidney cancer Many people believe that eating a particular food causes kidney cancer. The truth is that the risk of cancer does not depend on any one thing. Smoking, obesity, uncontrolled blood pressure and genetic factors (family history) play a big role in this. Catering is only a small part. Myth 4: It is necessary to stop eating red meat completely. Due to fear of kidney cancer, people give up red meat completely. The truth is that consumption of processed or highly grilled meats may be associated with cancer risk, but consuming red meat in moderation is not harmful for everyone. Dietary decisions should be taken only on the advice of the doctor as per the patient’s own medical condition. What does science say? The right way to stay healthy From a scientific point of view, it is most effective to adopt a balanced lifestyle rather than looking for some ‘magic food’. Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, pulses, and whole grains. Also: Healthy weight: Keep obesity under control. Activity: Do regular exercise or physical activity. Avoid tobacco: Smoking is the biggest risk of cancer. Regular check-ups: Keep getting health check-ups done.
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