The role of intermittent fasting and the ketogenic diet in cancer disease: can they replace the Mediterranean diet?

Abstract

The prevalence of cancer is rising globally, and it is the second leading cause of death. Nutrition has an important influence on the risk of developing cancer. Moreover, changes in the gut microbiota are connected to the risk of developing cancer and are critical for sustaining immunity. Various studies have shown that intermittent fasting, ketogenic diet, and the Mediterranean diet are effective therapies in changing the intestinal microbiota, the prevention of cancer, and the improvement of tolerance to treatment in cancer patients. Although there is not enough evidence to show that the ketogenic diet is effective in changing the intestinal microbiota in a manner that could prevent cancer, intermittent fasting and the Mediterranean diet could positively affect composition of intestinal microbiota against cancer. In addition, the ketogenic diet, intermittent fasting, and the Mediterranean diet have the potential to stimulate anticarcinogenic pathways, and they might increase cancer patients’ quality of life according to scientific evidence. In this review, we represent and argue recent scientific data on relationship between intermittent fasting, the ketogenic diet, and the Mediterranean diet, intestinal microbiota, cancer prevention and cancer treatment.

Intermittent Fasting as New Approaches as Anti Aging for Preventing Age-associated Diseases

“…Intermittent fasting (IF) has garnered considerable attention in recent years for its potential effects on aging processes at the cellular level. A multitude of research studies have delved into the intricate relationship between intermittent fasting and its impact on the aging process (Küçük & Çiftçi, 2023). This paradigm of dietary restriction involves alternating cycles of eating and fasting, and its effects on cellular aging have piqued the interest of scientists and health enthusiasts alike.…”

Role of the gut microbiota in tumorigenesis and treatment

“…Diet plays a crucial role in determining the structure and function of the gut microbiota, and the interaction between diet and microorganisms determines whether they are beneficial or detrimental to host health 218 , 236 . Considering a series of parameters, the Mediterranean diet is associated with a lower risk of cancer initiation and death, primarily by enhancing immune function mediated by cytotoxic cells and helper T cells 237 . Is it possible to modulate the gut microbiota in a way that is beneficial to human health through specific dietary components?…”