The Effect of a Ketogenic Diet on Cancer: Evidence From Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyzes

Abstract

Background: Emerging evidence suggests that the ketogenic diet (KD) may support cancer treatment by improving metabolic parameters and reducing treatment-related side effects. This review aimed to synthesize evidence from systematic reviews and meta-analyses on the effects of ketogenic diets in cancer, focusing on metabolic outcomes, body composition, quality of life, and tumor progression. Treatment-related complications were considered as exploratory outcomes. Methods: A comprehensive review of meta-analyses were conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Databases including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched for systematic reviews and meta-analyses exploring the effects of KD on cancer and treatment side effects. After screening 615 articles, 24 eligible reviews were examined to explore the effects of ketogenic diets on metabolism, quality of life, body composition, and cancer progression. Results: KD improved metabolic markers such as glucose and triglycerides, and showed benefits in body composition and quality of life. Evidence on treatment-related complications, including radiotherapy side effects, was limited and heterogeneous. Conclusions: KD shows promise as a safe and effective adjunctive therapy in cancer management. More evidence is needed to draw firm conclusions.