Alkaline Diets And Cancer Prevention?

Warburg's theory was certainly revolutionary in 1931, and he continued with his research until he died in 1966. His name is now being used by the aforementioned conspiracy and alternative health websites to tout a so-called alkaline diet that is supposed to rid the body of acidity and either prevent or cure cancer.

Though Otto Warburg warned against smoking, was in favor of eating organic foods, and advised people to exercise regularly, diets like the ones circulating online and found in books discussing "alkaline diets" were not created by him personally. They may, however, partially be based on his theories. 

What Are Alkaline Diets?

What does a typical alkaline (so non-acidic, with a high pH level) look like? Lots of fruits and vegetables are typically involved, and some advocates also suggest a vegetarian raw-food regime. Tofu and soy products and many other beans, legumes, seeds and nuts are allowed, while meat and other animal products like dairy and eggs are to be avoided. Alkaline-diet advocates also advise you to avoid sugar, alcohol, and any processed foods including bread. Alkaline diets are proposed for all kinds of different things besides the cure and prevention of cancer, including back pain, better brain function, and type 2 diabetes. 

Of course, eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, beans, and legumes cooked from scratch is going to be helpful for most people, regardless of their current health status. Simultaneously, avoiding processed foods, too much meat, and alcohol is going to be a great idea. So far, so good. This is sound diet advice.

Alkaline Diets Do Not Cure Cancer

There is, however, no evidence that diet affects the blood's pH level — slightly alkaline by nature — to any great degree at all. The body works to keep that pH level steady at all times by expelling waste products through the urine, regardless of what we eat.

Making the body more alkaline was, remember, the thing that is supposed to cure cancer. Eating healthily is wonderful, and it might even assist the body during any kind of medical treatment. Is foregoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy to focus on dietary solutions to cancer a sane decision? No, it is not. Any person who decides to opt out of cancer treatment to focus on alternative medicine should be aware what the possible consequences are. 

See Also: Claims for Alkaline Diets Get Sour Response from Doctors, Nutritionists

What does your medical team say about alkaline diets? We know the answer, and so do you. The only question is whether you believe mainstream medicine's view of this approach is due to some kind of Big Pharma Conspiracy, or because diets cannot cure cancer.