ATNT-24KETOGENIC DIETS IN CANCER THERAPIES: ARE WE SPEAKING THE SAME LANGUAGE?

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The definition and parameters of the ketogenic diet are not universal. Consistency of terms, type of diet and measurement of ketones need to be defined. These therapies and the parameters have been well established in the nutrition and neurology literature, but require standardization if ketosis is going to be evaluated as an oncologic therapy. METHODS: Comparison of ketogenic diets to other modified diets that are commonly thought of as ketogenic diets includes the following: Classic Ketogenic Diet (KD), Medium Chain Triglyceride oil diet (MCT), Low Glycemic Index Therapy (LGIT), Modified Atkins (MAD and Atkins (AD) diets and the biological parameters for monitoring ketosis (labs, including blood and or urine ketones). RESULTS: Comparison graphics for the KD, MCT, LGIT, MAD and AD will be presented and will include the following: Proportions of fat, protein and carbohydrate in each type of diet; how foods are measured, whether calories are controlled; presence of blood and urine ketones reported for each diet; and one sample day of each diet. CONCLUSIONS: Ketogenic diet therapies (KD, MCT, LGIT, MAD, and AD) are complicated and different from the public's thinking of a healthy diet for cancer. Individual patient's response and compliance with different diets vary. Without consensus about what constitutes a ketogenic diet and twice daily measurements of blood ketones to ensure the state of ketosis is maintained, metabolic changes cannot be documented. Since the purpose of this therapy is to induce the state of ketosis, the type of ketogenic diet used must actually promote ketone formation and be monitored. Without those key elements, comparisons between trials cannot be achieved and the value of the ketogenic diet as an anticancer treatment will remain an unanswered question.