Can this diet cure cancer?

Hyderabad: A Facebook post about a diet that can cure cancer has gone viral on social media. The diet recommends "No meat" and "Organic food only (plenty of fruits and vegetables)." It also suggests taking "1.5 grams of Laetrile (vitamin B17) per day" or "1 gram of hemp oil per day."

However, there is a disclaimer that reads, "The preceding text was written by someone who has no medical licence and should not be listened to at all."

WHO describes cancer as a large group of diseases that can start in almost any organ or tissue of the body when abnormal cells grow uncontrollably, go beyond their usual boundaries to invade adjoining parts of the body and/or spread to other organs.

Can any diet cure cancer? Let's find out.

FACT CHECK

So, can a specific diet cure cancer?

A study suggests that there is no evidence to prove that any specific diet can cure cancer. According to Cancer Research UK, "Two of the main conventional cancer treatments are chemotherapy and radiotherapy. They have to go through rigorous testing to prove that they work. Most alternative therapies have not been through such testing. So, there is no scientific evidence that they work. Some types of alternative therapy may not be completely safe. They could cause harmful side effects."

Talking about diet, the article said, "Keep eating a well balanced diet if you try any alternative diet. Even when taking a nutritional supplement, try to eat a balanced diet. It can be harmful to deprive yourself of protein, carbohydrates (including sugars) and fats. Your body needs them to repair itself and keep going."

Can hemp oil work its magic?

A study on whether hemp oil can treat cancer said, "While no studies to date have shown that CBD (Cannabidiol) eases these side effects specifically in people with cancer or people receiving cancer treatment, some people with cancer have reported benefits in taking CBD, such as helping with nausea, vomiting, depression, and other side effects."

The safety and efficacy of CBD for people with cancer still have to be proven in large, randomized, controlled clinical trials.

What about Vitamin B17?

Vitamin B17, also known as Amygdalin, is found in some nuts, vegetables, beans, and fruit pips. According to a study in Macmillan Cancer Support, "There is no medical evidence to support this. There has been a review of studies that were looking at the outcomes for people with cancer taking Laetrile. The review found no evidence to show that it can control or cure cancer. Adding to this, the study also talks about the side effects, i.e., Death."

It is evident that no particular diet can cure cancer. Trust your medical professional. It may not be easy or quick but it will always be safe.

Hence, the claim is false.