The consumption of soda can have significant impacts on the body of individuals fighting cancer. Recent studies have shed light on both the potential risks and, in some cases, unexpected benefits associated with different types of soda consumption during cancer treatment and recovery.
Sugar-Sweetened Sodas
Sugar-sweetened sodas have been linked to increased cancer risk and poorer outcomes for cancer patients. A systematic review found that sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) were associated with a higher risk of breast and prostate cancer[1]. For breast cancer patients specifically, consuming sugar-sweetened soda five or more times per week was associated with an 85% higher risk of breast cancer mortality compared to those who rarely or never consumed such beverages[3][6].
The mechanisms behind these negative effects may include:
- High glycemic load leading to increased glucose and insulin levels, which can promote cancer growth
- Contribution to obesity, a known risk factor for various cancers
- Presence of potentially carcinogenic compounds like 4-methylimidazole (4-MI) in some carbonated drinks[5]
Artificially Sweetened Sodas
Interestingly, some studies have found potential benefits associated with artificially sweetened beverages for certain cancer patients. A Yale study reported that drinking at least one 12-ounce serving of diet cola per day resulted in a 46% improvement in the risk of colon cancer recurrence or death[2]. Another study observed a 54% decreased relative risk for cancer recurrence or mortality among colon cancer patients who consumed artificially sweetened beverages compared to those who abstained[4].
However, it's important to note that the long-term health effects of artificial sweeteners are still debated, and more research is needed to confirm these findings.
Considerations During Cancer Treatment
While soda generally doesn't provide nutritional benefits, it can serve specific purposes during cancer treatment:
1. Nausea relief: Carbonated drinks like ginger ale may help alleviate nausea, a common side effect of chemotherapy[8].
2. Calorie source: For patients struggling with appetite loss, sugar-sweetened sodas can provide easily consumable calories.
3. Hydration: In cases where water intake is challenging, sodas may help with hydration, though they shouldn't be the primary source.
Recommendations
Given the mixed evidence and potential risks, cancer patients should consider the following:
- Limit or avoid sugar-sweetened sodas, especially if diagnosed with hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer.
- If consuming soda, opt for artificially sweetened versions, particularly for colorectal cancer patients, under medical guidance.
- Focus on nutrient-dense beverages like unsweetened tea, coffee, or 100% fruit juices, which offer antioxidants and vitamins[5].
- Consult with an oncology dietitian for personalized advice on beverage choices during treatment.
While soda consumption should generally be limited during cancer treatment, individual needs may vary. The priority should be maintaining adequate nutrition and hydration while following evidence-based dietary recommendations to support cancer treatment and recovery.
Citations:
[1] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7915548/
[2] https://news.yale.edu/2018/07/19/low-or-no-calorie-soft-drinks-linked-improved-outcomes-colon-cancer
[3] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33653812/
[4] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8798166/
[5] https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2023.1301335/full
[6] https://www.buffalo.edu/news/releases/2021/03/009.html
[7] https://www.bmj.com/content/366/bmj.l2408
[8] https://www.gacancer.com/wellness_blog/carbonated-beverages-health
[9] https://www.cancervic.org.au/get-support/stories/soft-drink-increase-cancer-risk.html
[10] https://www.cancer.org.au/iheard/can-soft-drinks-cause-cancer
[11] https://www.mdanderson.org/cancerwise/do-sugary-drinks-increase-colorectal-cancer-risk.h00-159698334.html
[12] https://blog.dana-farber.org/insight/2019/11/soda-cause-cancer/
[13] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3497921/
[14] https://aacrjournals.org/cebp/article/30/5/945/670808/Sugar-Sweetened-Soda-Consumption-and-Total-and
[15] https://www.moffitt.org/endeavor/archive/theres-no-sugar-coating-it-sugary-soft-drinks-linked-to-cancer/
[16] https://www.mdanderson.org/publications/focused-on-health/does-diet-soda-cause-cancer.h19-1589046.html
[17] https://www.buffalo.edu/news/releases/2021/03/009.html
[18] https://www.moffitt.org/endeavor/archive/can-baking-soda-help-fight-cancer/
[19] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8798166/
[20] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7915548/
[21] https://news.yale.edu/2018/07/19/low-or-no-calorie-soft-drinks-linked-improved-outcomes-colon-cancer
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