Understanding Cancer: Causes, Treatment & Prevention | Drs. Urvi Shah & Neil Iyengar

Plant-Based Benefits

Plant-based diets are highlighted for their potential in cancer prevention and survivorship. Urvi Shah emphasizes that large studies from the USA, UK, and France link plant-based diets to a reduced risk of cancer, attributing this to increased fiber and its anti-inflammatory properties 1. Neil Iyengar agrees, noting that plant-based diets offer a comprehensive approach to cancer risk reduction with fewer chances of dietary missteps compared to ketogenic diets 2. He explains, "Most of our data indicates that whole food, plant-based diets impact many of the processes that are common amongst a lot of these cancers" 2.

   

Ketogenic Potential

The ketogenic diet is explored for its potential benefits in specific cancer treatments. Neil Iyengar discusses how shifting energy sources to ketones can minimize insulin signaling, which may benefit certain cancer treatments 3. He suggests that while ketones like beta hydroxybutyrate may have anti-cancer properties, the complexity of human biology favors a plant-based approach until more clinical trial data is available 3. "The actual anti-cancer effect of BHB beta hydroxybutyrate may be useful," he notes, highlighting ongoing trials to test these hypotheses 3.

   

Red Meat Concerns

Red meat consumption is scrutinized for its association with colorectal cancer. Urvi Shah explains that while processed meat is a definite carcinogen, unprocessed red meat is considered a probable carcinogen with a relative risk increase of 17% per 100 grams consumed daily 4. Neil Iyengar adds that dosage is crucial, allowing individuals to make informed decisions about their red meat intake based on acceptable risk levels 5. "If an individual is okay with an absolute risk increase of 10%, which is really quite high, that's associated with fairly high doses of unprocessed red meat," he states 5.

   

Soy & Dairy

The debate over soy and dairy consumption in cancer risk is complex. Neil Iyengar clarifies that moderate soy intake is not linked to increased breast cancer risk, despite concerns about estrogen 6. Urvi Shah notes that minimally processed soy, like tofu, is preferable to soy protein isolates 7. Regarding dairy, she highlights its potential link to prostate cancer, while also noting its protective role against colorectal cancer due to calcium content 7. "Moderation is key," Iyengar advises, emphasizing dietary diversity to minimize cancer risks 8.