Does sugar cause cancer?

Does sugar “feed” cancer cells?

Let’s look at the evidence to find out whether sugar causes cancer to grow and spread more quickly.

It’s true that sugar feeds every cell in our body — even cancer cells. But, research shows that eating sugar doesn’t necessarily lead to cancer. It’s what sugar does to your waistline that can lead to cancer.

Taking in too many sugar calories may result in weight gain. And, being overweight or obese puts you at a higher risk for cancer and other diseases.

So, should you avoid sugar? Our expert says no.

“Your body’s cells use sugar to keep your vital organs functioning,” says Erma Levy, a research dietitian in Behavioral Science. “But too much daily sugar can cause weight gain. And, unhealthy weight gain and a lack of exercise can increase your cancer risks.”

Eat the right amount of sugar

So, how much sugar is safe to eat?  Women should have no more than six teaspoons per day (25 grams), and men should have no more than nine teaspoons per day (36 grams), says the American Heart Association. This equals to about 100 calories for women and 150 for men.

If you’re like most Americans, you actually eat more than double that much sugar in a day — about 22 teaspoons. That’s 260 cups or 130 lbs. of sugar each year.

Even worse, all that extra sugar breaks down to about 500 calories per day. That’s hundreds of calories with absolutely no nutritional or cancer-fighting benefit.

Spot hidden sugar in food

The biggest source of added sugar in the American diet is sugar-sweetened beverages. Other sources include cakes, cookies, pies and ice cream. Pasta sauce, salad dressings and canned vegetables also have hidden sugars. 

That is why it’s so important to read food labels and look for hidden sugars.  

Your first clue that a product is high in sugar is if the word “sugar” is listed as the first ingredient.

Some sugary foods don’t include “sugar” on the ingredient list. That’s because sugar is often disguised under different names. Here are some hidden “sugar” words to look out for:

• fructose (sugar from fruits)
• lactose (sugar from milk)
• sucrose (made from fructose and glucose)
• maltose (sugar made from grain)
• glucose (simple sugar,)
• dextrose (form of glucose)

Opt for natural sugars

Natural sugars, like molasses, agave nectar, honey and maple syrup, are packed with antioxidants that protect your body from cancer.

Even though these sweet options are natural, they still have about the same amount of calories as regular sugar. So, it’s important to stick to the recommended daily serving for sugar.

Opt for unsweetened tea, sparkling water, or sugar-free beverages instead of the sugar-laden ones. In place of sugar, add spices such as nutmeg, ginger, or cinnamon to your foods. Spice up your morning oatmeal or dry cereal by adding fresh or dried fruit. Replace your favorite desserts with fruit on most days.

Avoid artificial sweeteners

Do you prefer artificial sweeteners over sugar?

Some studies done with laboratory animals have found links between artificial sweeteners and cancer. But, no proof exists that says artificial sweeteners definitely cause cancer. Until more is known, your best bet is to avoid or limit artificial sweeteners. 

Rein in your sweet tooth

Bottom line: sugar, when eaten in small amounts, can fit into a balanced diet. And, if you have a sweet tooth, it’s better to get your sugar fix from naturally sweet fruits than processed foods. That way, you’ll satisfy your craving and get more of the nutrients your body needs to reduce your cancer risk.