An Oncology Dietitian Breaks Down 7 Surprising Cancer ‘Nutrition Myths’: Following Alkaline Diets, Eating Organic Food, More
February 9, 2025 by Marissa Matozzo
Although diet alone cannot completely prevent cancer, some processed and sugary foods may raise the risk of developing it. In a detailed TikTok video, Nichole (@oncology.nutrition.rd), a cancer dietitian and health expert, addressed seven common myths about cancer nutrition that are frequently heard by those newly diagnosed, currently fighting the disease, or aiming to avoid it.
In her clip, the expert told viewers: “as a cancer dietitian I love to debunk so many things.” She also acknowledged that many of her patients are “really afraid to eat everything” due to misinformation around what can cause cancer or exacerbate its symptoms. By debunking these myths, she shared that her goal was to inspire her followers to “eat more foods with more calories and protein” so they can “feel so confident during your cancer treatment journey.”
Nicole clarified that a common misconception among those recently diagnosed with cancer is the belief that they must adhere to an alkaline diet. “You can’t change your body’s pH and you wouldn’t want to,” she explained, adding: “do not follow that, it’s not going to have any effect on your cancer.”
An alkaline diet, according to the oncology expert, emphasizes eating foods with a pH above 7, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes, while reducing intake of acidic foods like meat, dairy, and grains. However, the idea that you can substantially change your body’s pH through diet lacks strong scientific support.
2. You Have To Buy Organic Food
The second myth Nichole busted is "that you have to buy organics" when battling or wanting to prevent cancer. She added: "that is not true, you can just buy conventional produce." The dietitian went on to say that "organic foods are a choice, not a necessity." She stressed that "they’re no more effective for cancer prevention or treatment than conventionally grown options."
3. You're Required To Take Excess Supplements
Throughout your cancer treatment or prevent journey, Nichole noted that "unless you have a micronutrient deficiency," it's best to never "take excess supplements." She added that "high doses of vitamins or [supposedly] cancer-fighting supplements can actually interfere with treatment." With that said, she recommended focusing "on nutrients from food instead."
4. You Have To Skip Gluten
Unless you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, Nichole explained that "there’s no need to avoid gluten," and that this is simply a myth. She also pointed out when debunking this that "whole grains can support your energy and recovery" when battling cancer.
5. Dairy 'Causes' Cancer
For the fifth myth Nichole broke down, she shared that dairy products don't actually "increase cancer risk," despite what you might've heard. She went on to say that there’s "no strong evidence linking dairy to cancer." She added: "in fact, dairy provides protein, calcium, and other nutrients you might need."
6. Plant Oils Are 'Toxic'
The dietitian clarified that "healthy fats like olive oil and avocado oil are packed with benefits" and are "not toxic." The oncology aficionado also stressed that these plant oils do not "cause cancer" and they can be "great for cooking and flavor" when it comes to your healthy meals.
7. Sugar 'Feeds' Cancer
While sugar-laden, chemical-filled, processed foods are often linked to cancer, Nichole told viewers that "cutting out sugar" completely "won’t stop cancer" in every case. However, she stressed the importance of "balanced eating," as this "helps your overall health." She concluded her video by noting that "all cells, including healthy ones, use sugar (glucose) for energy." The more you know!