Relationship Between Sugar and Cancer

This is going to be a sensitive topic since many of us eat a lot of sugar even when we’re not putting teaspoons full into our food. This is because sugar is hidden in most of the ultra-processed foods we eat. Not only that but there are different names for sugar that manufacturers will use as a way of hiding the real amount of sugar.

The average American consumes about 57 lbs. of sugar annually. The sugar is broken down in the body into glucose, which is essential for energy production. However, this breakdown also produces methylglyoxal (MGO), a substance known to disrupt cellular function.

Normally, enzymes in the body break down MGO into less harmful substances. The trouble comes when excessive sugar overwhelms these defenses, leading to increased MGO levels in the bloodstream. This influx can accelerate damage to the DNA in our cells.

While our cells possess two tumor-suppressing genes designed to protect against such damage, some individuals inherit faulty versions of these genes, making them more vulnerable to MGO's harmful effects.

It's also crucial to note that for cancer to develop, both tumor-suppressing genes must be permanently switched off. Recent research indicates that high sugar intake and elevated MGO levels in the body can silence these protective genes, potentially paving the way for cancerous growth.

Plussing the process for the tumor cells is that the tumor cells thrive on glucose, forming a dangerous cycle where increased sugar consumption leads to more MGO production, further compromising our genetic defenses against cancer.

Adding to this complex equation are environmental factors, such as, smoking, radiation, pollution, and the consumption of ultra-processed foods which are rich in sugar. According to researchers from Stony Brook University, up to 90% of cancers may be attributed to these environmental factors.

The good news is that we can exert more control over our cancer risk than previously believed. By reducing our intake of ultra-processed foods and added sugars, we can significantly lower our chances of developing cancer.

So…pass the sugar (not!).

(Reported WDDTY, May/June 2024)