Do cancer cells feed on protein?

As an expert in the field of cancer biology, I can provide you with a detailed answer to your question. Cancer cells, like all cells in the body, do require nutrients to survive and grow. One of the primary sources of energy for cells is glucose, a type of sugar. However, when glucose is scarce, cancer cells can adapt by utilizing other sources of energy, including protein and fat. This metabolic flexibility is part of what makes cancer cells so resilient and able to survive in various conditions within the body. The statement that 'sugar feeds cancer cells' is somewhat oversimplified. While it is true that cancer cells often have an increased reliance on glucose for their rapid proliferation, it does not mean that eliminating sugar from the diet will necessarily starve cancer cells or halt their growth. Cancer cells are adept at reprogramming their metabolism to use alternative nutrients when preferred sources are not available. In summary, while cancer cells do feed on protein and can use it for fuel in the absence of sugar, it is important to understand that their nutrient utilization is complex and not solely dependent on sugar.

Cancer cells will use protein and fat for fuel in the absence of sugar. Cancer cells will use protein and fat for fuel in the absence of sugar. You may have heard that 'sugar feeds cancer cells', fuelling their rapid growth. Or that eliminating sugar from our diet can starve or stymie cancer growth.