01 / How it works
Cancer cells consume more glucose and produce more lactate than normal cells. Metabolic treatments use certain drugs to block the production of energy in the cancer cells making them more sensitive to other cancer treatments as well as activating apoptosis (regulated death of cells).
As cancer has special metabolic needs these needs can be used against the cancer cells by using special metabolic inhibitors and diet.
02 / When it is considered
Our medical team will work together to determine what treatments should be included in your treatment plan based on the wider picture. By studying your diagnosis, current treatments, and overall wellbeing, we can establish whether or not metabolic approaches could be appropriate for you.
03 / Your treatment session
04 / Care at Verita Life
Our care planning considers your current treatment and ability to maintain nutrition. Bring details of any restrictive diets or supplements so the medical team can assess their effect on the rest of your care.
05 / Questions
Unfortunately it’s not as simple as starving cancer as the cells are are ‘metabolically flexible’ and can easily adapt to consume alternative nutrients if glucose levels drop to continue multiplying. What is simple is that high-sugar diets create inflammation, which in turn can help cancer thrive, so this is important to remove - a simple way to do this is cutting out all ultra-processed foods and added sugar from your diet.
Not by itself. Ask which clinical outcomes will be monitored and how those findings would change the plan.
06 / Sources
Medically reviewed by Dr Nopparat Suwannasuk (Dr Jan), Integrative Medicine Specialist. Last reviewed 2026-09-30.
