Hidden Sugar Trap Fuels Lung Cancer

By Dr. Scott Olson, ND Posted April 16, 2025

We’ve long known that smoking is the main villain behind lung cancer.

But what if your dinner plate has quietly joined forces with the enemy?

A new study from the University of Florida reveals that the typical Western diet could be laying the groundwork for aggressive lung cancer growth by feeding tumors with stored sugar.

In short? Our modern diet might be creating the perfect conditions for cancer to thrive…

Researchers found that diets rich in processed carbs and unhealthy fats lead to a buildup of glycogen—a form of stored sugar—in lung tissue.

And cancer, as it turns out, loves glycogen.

In mouse studies, this sugary fuel triggered the development of larger, faster-growing tumors, especially a type called lung adenocarcinoma—the most common form of lung cancer.

Mice fed a diet mimicking fast food favorites (think high-fructose corn syrup and corn oil) developed significantly more tumors than those on a regular diet. But here’s the kicker: when scientists disabled the gene that allows glycogen to be made, tumor growth was dramatically reduced.

This means glycogen isn’t just a bystander—it’s actively involved in feeding and fueling cancer.

Why does this matter to you?

Because the average American diet is packed with the very ingredients that lead to this glycogen stockpile. We’re not just talking about donuts and soda… even seemingly “healthy” processed foods can contribute to this hidden sugar trap.

This research confirms something we’ve suspected for a long time. Cancer doesn’t just show up. It’s invited by our habits.

That’s why your best defense includes:

• Cutting back on processed foods (especially those with added sugars and refined oils)
• Focusing on whole, nutrient-dense meals—think vegetables, legumes, healthy fats, and lean proteins
• Keeping blood sugar stable to prevent excess glucose from being stored as glycogen
• Staying physically active to help burn off stored sugars before they’re hijacked by rogue cells

While this study focused on lung cancer, it opens the door to how other cancers might also thrive by feeding on the modern diet.

And just like anti-smoking campaigns helped reduce cancer risk, future cancer prevention may focus just as much on what’s on your plate.

P.S. This superfood slashes deadly cancer risk by 20%!

SOURCE:
Clarke, H. A., Hawkinson, T. R., Shedlock, C. J., Medina, T., Ribas, et al., (2025). Glycogen drives tumour initiation and progression in lung adenocarcinoma. Nature Metabolism, 1-14.

Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND

Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.

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