Scientists have found a link between Western diets high in fructose and lung cancer growth, with research showing sugar-storing molecules ‘feed’ tumours.
Lung cancer tumours have been discovered to ‘feast’ on sugar, according to fresh research exploring the connection between diet and lung cancer.
Scientists labelled glycogen, a molecule that stores a form of sugar known as glucose, a “giant lollipop for cancer’s sweet tooth”. American researchers found that the greater the amount of glycogen present in cancer cells, the larger and more aggressive the tumour development.
Lung tumours expanded when scientists gave mice a “Western diet” rich in fat and fructose, a fruit sugar. High-fructose corn syrup is a widespread sweetener in processed foods and beverages.
In contrast, tumour development slowed when glycogen levels dropped.
The researchers concluded their findings, observing: “The typical Western diet increases glycogen levels and glycogen feeds lung cancer tumours by providing their building blocks for growth.”
Lung cancer and diet
Glycogen serves as an “exceptionally good predictor” of tumour development and mortality in lung cancer sufferers, stated Ramon Sun, PhD, an associate professor and director of the University of Florida Center for Advanced Spatial Biomolecule Research. The influence of diet on lung cancer receives less attention compared to other bodily cancers.
Prof Sun explained: “Lung cancer has not traditionally been thought of as a dietary-related disease. Diseases like pancreatic cancer or liver cancer, yes. However, when it comes to lung cancer, the idea that diet could play a role is rarely discussed.”
The groundbreaking study published in Nature Metabolism expanded upon previous research into Lafora, an extremely rare neurological condition. Prof Sun and research partner Prof Matthew Gentry had previously undertaken a two-decade investigation into the disease, where sufferers develop normally for ten years before epilepsy strikes.
Mental decline then sets in, with most patients passing away before reaching 25 years of age.
Whilst diet is frequently highlighted in cancer prevention efforts, the researchers emphasised this represents one of the earliest instances where lung cancer has been directly connected to what we eat.
Cancer prevention
“In the long term, our approach to cancer prevention should mirror the success of the anti-smoking campaign – placing greater emphasis on public awareness and policy-driven strategies that promote healthier dietary choices as a fundamental component of disease prevention,” Prof Sun said.
An additional advantage of targeting glycogen lies in the range of therapeutic possibilities on offer. Prof Gentry highlighted that three distinct categories of medications currently exist to regulate glycogen levels, all developed through Lafora disease research.
His conclusion echoes familiar health guidance you’ve probably encountered before.
Prof Gentry said: “Prioritising a nutrient-rich diet, maintaining an active lifestyle and minimising alcohol intake are foundational strategies for long-term health. Fostering better dietary habits can be a powerful tool in lung cancer prevention.”