“When we have the power to help, we have the duty of doing so” – Dr. Mirko Beljanski
My Diagnosis
For nearly a year, I had a swollen lymph node in my neck, and in February 2026, I was diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma. Before this, I had been feeling worn down for a few years. I also had night sweats for many months. I truly felt like I was slowly dying. I still have no idea how long I was fighting this disease.
At the initial meeting with my doctor, he talked about radiation and chemotherapy, along with surgery at USC. Talk about my life changing overnight! He said that we need to find where the primary tumor or tumor(s) are located and where the cancer has potentially spread. Based on the initial diagnosis, and because it may have spread into the lymphatic system with the possibility of it also forming tumors, many would consider this a stage 3 scenario. We simply did not know the extent of the severity.
My doctor then ordered a PET scan STAT, but through a series of events, the scan was postponed for two months. I don’t recommend postponing early diagnosis, but God was truly guiding my path.
Waiting Time Is Not Wasted Time
As those who have waited for test results know, the waiting time is a very hard season. Would I have cancer throughout my body, or would it be isolated to a small area that I could manage? Would I beat it, or would it beat me?
Over the years, I heard the saying, “Pray as if it all depends on God, but work as if it all depends on you.” I’m not sure if that statement is thoroughly biblical, but the principle is true: God calls us to steward many things, including our health. During this waiting time, I began to apply many of the principles and supplements mentioned in the following pages.
I began with a five-day water fast to seek the heart of God. Then the elders prayed over me, based on James 5:14-15, as well as a small group of friends. The first week was tough, but day by day, I felt stronger, and my relationship with the Lord flourished. Initially, I was around 210 lbs., but I eventually dropped to 190 lbs. Again, by following the protocols in this booklet. Instead of crashing at 6 PM, I would work out; instead of having little energy and motivation, I had good energy. It was very motivating, especially when the night sweats stopped. Truly a life-changing event.
The key to remember is that waiting time is never wasted time. For one, this booklet would never have materialized, reaching countless people with help and hope. Second, this was the spiritual renewal and revival that I desperately needed. I was excited to preach, and I couldn’t wait to deliver the messages God had put on my heart. (Check out February to May 2026 to hear some of them at my YouTube or Rumble channels.) Third, I became a much better husband, father, and pastor. I have a deeper compassion for those struggling with health issues.
Although God may use alternatives and conventional therapies, He doesn’t require anything to heal us, and often, He directs us differently in this area. And sometimes, He doesn’t heal us on this side of heaven. But He will meet you right where you’re at. Even if you don’t have anything, you have everything … you have Him.
When I finally received the PET Scan results on 4/20/26, it was what we expected — cancer was in the lymph node, as well as in a 2 cm tumor in my throat area. And this is where my journey continues as I too calculate an assault against cancer and navigate the same waters as many of you. I don’t know what the future holds, but I know Who holds the future.
Sidenote: I would also encourage you to watch the message I gave some time ago titled: When God Heals and Doesn’t Heal. *Link here
I may post updates at the online version of this booklet at ShaneIdleman.com, as well as on my social media feeds from time to time.
Brief Introduction
When I was first diagnosed with cancer, I was amazed at the environment of negativity and fear that encompassed most medical facilities. Not to mention all the well-meaning people who offered tons of advice regarding “what I should be doing” — it was truly overwhelming.
And when YouTube removed my announcement about my diagnosis because I dared to use the word “alternatives,” I said, “Game on!” Their censorship, along with my diagnosis, awakened a renewed fire … a renewed passion for God, truth, faith, trust, and perseverance. (For more, listen here to: Lessons Learned Walking Through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, and here to my first interview after being diagnosed.)
(Special Note: If some of the YouTube links don’t work, simply search the titles on my Rumble channel.)
The process of fighting cancer can be a roller coaster ride of emotions based on opinions, options, scans, MRIs, and assessments. I would get excited if the lymph node was decreasing in size, and then dread the day when it felt larger.
From denial to acceptance, there are emotional stages when you hear the word “cancer.” Acceptance doesn’t mean retreating into fear; instead, it says, “Here’s what’s going on, and here’s how I’m going to fight it.” For this reason, and the fact that cancer is rising at alarming levels (even in young adults), I decided to put together this short booklet.
My prayer is that you take these suggestions to the Lord and seek Him for direction. And please share this with those who need to be uplifted and inspired to take back their health. I’m also putting together a booklet, The Dark Night of the Soul, that focuses on weathering the heavy storms that hit all of us. You can read an excerpt here.
Key: God’s Got This
Depending on where you’re at in your journey, it’s normal to experience fear and anxiety. Take a breath, slow down, and remember that God has got this. Surrender everything to Him. It’s also important to focus on others and not yourself. Pray, “Lord, how can I help others during this journey?” Maybe, like me, you’ll write a book or share your story to help others. Purpose brings peace as well as motivation … motivation to persevere.
The first week after my diagnosis was touch-and-go. I was highly emotional, fearful, and anxious. During this time, I was often reminded of King Asa, who did not seek help from God, but only from his physicians (cf. 2 Chronicles 16:12).
I made seeking God my main priority, and the more I sought Him, the more I found Him. And He will do the same for you. (See Jeremiah 29:13). I would also encourage you to incorporate a season of fasting as soon as possible to seek the heart of God, and make sure to repent of toxic emotions such as unforgiveness, bitterness, etc., as soon as possible. They are very toxic physically, emotionally, and spiritually. This can be an incredible turning point in your life. Don’t waste the pain. It’s often only when we hit rock bottom that we turn to the Rock at the bottom — Jesus.
A Journey Rather Than a Destination
The information I’m sharing comes from medical journals, studies, doctors, and organizations such as Oasis of Hope, which employs highly trained doctors, including oncologists. They view health from a holistic approach, combining functional and traditional medicines. Many of them are Christians.
But be prepared: Fighting cancer and disease can be expensive. Consider setting up a GoFundMe account or taking other financial measures. But don’t worry: God will meet you right where you’re at. He doesn’t need you to do anything; He wants you to trust in Him for everything. You + God are better than all of the supplements, treatments, and biohacks combined.
Remember, this is a journey, and answers often don’t come right away. As a pastor, I’ve seen God heal people through conventional therapy, and I have seen countless people healed when God led them to alternatives. I’ve seen God heal impossible situations, and I’ve witnessed Him call His saints home. Ultimately, all of us must bow our knee to God’s sovereignty and trust in Him. Jesus is the Great Physician. A good friend recently reminded me, “We do what we can in the natural, and trust Him with the supernatural.”
For additional help, support, and encouragement, download all of my books for free at wcfav.org, including my books on fasting.
They Don’t Know What They Don’t Know
The sad reality is that nine times out of ten, most physicians will discourage you from alternative therapies. But I don’t blame them — that’s all they’ve been taught. As one very skilled doctor told me, “They don’t know what they don’t know.”
There are oncologists, doctors, and specialists who endorse what I’m about to share with you, but, as with all things, there are also skeptics. The key for me is to look at creation and design. How did God create us and design our immune system?
I love physicians. I have friends and members of our church who are in the medical field — we need them. But unfortunately, many in the secular world completely miss the connection to God.
Additionally, many doctors who are well-versed in conventional and alternative therapies tell me that the medical industry is about 20 years behind the curve, and much of what today’s physicians recommend is now obsolete. Did you catch that? Wow.
Even oncologists have privately shared that, although they agree with many of the alternative solutions, they can’t say anything for fear of losing their license. How sad.
Remember when fasting was bad, but smoking was okay? Remember when fat was bad, but highly processed, chemical-laden, low-fat products were good? Remember when type 2 diabetes patients were told that there’s nothing more they can do? That’s not true. Changing their lifestyle is key to fighting type 2 diabetes.
I can keep going, but I think you get the picture. We must take back our health and steward it correctly.
Listen to the Right Voice — Waiting vs. Rushing
As we begin, keep in mind that all healing comes from God. We cannot trust in pills, potions, formulas, or protocols. Again, I believe that God wants us to take care of our bodies and will bless that decision; He created natural medicines for healing. (See Revelation 22:2 and Ezekiel 47:12.)
Are you aware that many medications are derived from nature? From metformin, derived from a French lilac, to rapamycin, discovered in the soil of Easter Island, natural remedies are everywhere, including many alternative treatments for cancer.
There are times, however, when God may use conventional therapy and surgery. Once more, the key is to seek Him for wisdom and direction. This is my most important point and the one that most people overlook: You must hear His voice above all other voices.
Don’t react in fear; respond with trust. He’s brought you this far, and He’ll bring you the whole way home. Yes, there were times when I was confused and didn’t know what to do; times when I was truly paralyzed. What did I do? I slowed down and sought Him. I prayed and then stepped out in faith, trusting that He would lead me. One example (I don’t recommend this because each situation is different) was when a doctor recommended a PET scan stat. He wanted to jump on this ASAP (and from his perspective, it was a good idea). But God had other plans that were so clear they were hard to miss. I was scheduled to fly out of state, so I had to delay the scan for two weeks.
I’d rather make a decision with peace than be pushed into something that I may later regret. I’m actually writing this section during this waiting time, and there is great peace. I can’t tell you how many people I’ve talked to over the years who said that they would’ve done things differently had they not been rushed and pushed into making decisions.
But again: Early detection and diagnosis of cancer are wise. The sooner you know what you’re up against, the sooner you can combat it. In all honesty, I should’ve looked into mine months earlier when a swollen lymph node wasn’t decreasing in size.
If you have to make quick decisions, simply trust God and step out in faith. Overcome worry with worship.
We Must Be ALL In
Many people use some of the items listed in the following section, but they often take lower dosages than the therapeutic levels needed for optimal results when dealing with cancer and hitting it hard. For example, taking a few scoops of vitamin C daily is great, but it’s nothing compared to 50 grams administered intravenously.
By the way, it’s not realistic to take a few supplements and experience good health without changing your lifestyle — from food to fitness, and from thankfulness to fruitfulness — it ALL matters. It’s a calculated assault against cancer.
For this reason, if possible, I encourage you to find an “Integrative Functional Medicine” doctor who will work with your budget. IFM physicians look at everything from conventional treatments to natural healing. It’s a whole-body approach that considers God’s design as well as medical breakthroughs.
Granted, it can be very challenging to find a physician (I currently don’t have anyone local that I’m working with), and accessing supplements can also be challenging. But thank God that we have the Great Physician at our disposal. Even if you can’t access anything, you can still access everything (God).
To attack cancer, we need a FULL-ON assault: An initial consultation with an integrative specialist, when possible, is needed to determine the proper approach for each specific diagnosis. For supplements, many experts recommend LifeExtension.org for its quality controls. Pure Encapsulations, Thorne, and Metagenics are also recommended companies. We should research supplements before purchasing (especially on Amazon), as Harvard Health Publishing points out here.
Holistic Help
Oasis of Hope in Mexico is an actual hospital that offers conventional treatment methods alongside alternative ones that aren’t available in America (such as Immuno Dendritic Cell Therapy). This can be a game-changer when it comes to attacking cancer because it uses your own tissue, cells, and blood to create your own specific vaccine of sorts to kill your specific cancer. Dendritic cells are messengers that activate T cells to destroy cancer cells. It’s an amazing part of God’s design.
I’ve also heard good things about Oasis of Healing in Arizona. Oasis is a smaller alternative/integrative treatment center that focuses on holistic metabolic approaches. Still, they differ in their regulatory environments and specific treatment approaches.
Many surgeons do not want to take the risk or the liability of working with patients who opt out of conventional therapy. The only way many surgeons will proceed with surgery is if a person signs a legal document that would require chemo and radiation with a traditional doctor. This is why many choose treatment centers outside of the USA. How sad: A nation with the best health care system in the world continues to manipulate the system.
Moreover, institutions like the ones mentioned earlier are ideal for those who need to get away for a few weeks for deep healing in a supportive environment — many offer everything from surgery to supplements. A healthy, hope-filled environment is absolutely essential: “When we have the power to help, we have the duty of doing so” (Dr. Mirko Beljanski).
At the time of this writing, these organizations appear to be good resources for those needing additional help. As we continue, always remember that nothing is guaranteed. Only God has the final say. His sovereignty is your sanity.
Building the Army
You can find plenty of information that seeks to discredit what I’m about to share with you. However, there is a certain hypocrisy in how these institutions operate. Often, the very same groups that dismiss these methods will publish reports in medical journals acknowledging their effectiveness — provided they are used with chemotherapy and radiation. There is a protocol that the medical industry must follow called conventional therapy. Anything that deviates from the path of radiation and chemotherapy is considered dangerous. And trust me, doctors do not like being challenged.
The medical community essentially admits these treatments work to fight cancer, but they often insist on them only as ‘add-ons’ to conventional protocols. For example, countless journals discuss the enormous benefits of intravenous vitamin C therapy and hyperbaric oxygen chambers, yet they rarely support using them as primary alternatives.
This creates a frustrating double standard. Whether the motive is a need for control, financial pressure, or simply a lack of training in holistic health, the result is the same: they are hesitant to validate any path that exists outside of their specific protocol, even when their own research points to its success.
As just one example, countless medical journals discuss the enormous benefits of intravenous vitamin C therapy and hyperbaric oxygen chambers as long as you use them in addition to “conventional therapy.” They don’t want you using natural alternatives outside of their protocol. Whether their motives are control, pride, money, pressure, or a lack of knowledge, I really don’t know. It’s probably a combination of all of them.
However, there may be times for conventional treatment or immunotherapy in moderation, but we must be careful and wise. Cancer cells are smart and can become resistant to chemotherapy. Additionally, cancer stem cells are not really affected by chemotherapy. We need our body’s entire immune system fighting for us.
Because conventional therapies often go after the surface of cancer and not the source of it, cancer often returns. For those who choose the conventional route, you must also build your immunity. Think of using the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Coast Guard, and armed citizens to fight a foreign army. In the same way, we need our T-cells, white cells, bone marrow, lymph nodes, healthy food, and many other things to join this battle.
Natural supplements are often the first line of defense before dendritic and T cells are activated. God-given nutrients support our immune system by promoting the production and activation of healthy cells and their ability to destroy pathogens. Unfortunately, chemotherapy pretty much wipes out our immune system. Then the tedious process of rebuilding begins. We must use wisdom and be prayed-up.
In the book, The Art & Science of Undermining Cancer, Dr. Francisco Contreras says:
“Direct attacks [chemo and radiation] have diminishing returns, and aid and abet cancer becoming resistant. Instead, our approach is to undermine cancer. Our therapies and approach have the goal of excavating below the foundational strongholds of cancer. Instead of backing cancer into a corner, we dig out below it, causing it to lose its balance and topple over. One such stronghold is cancer’s ability to become resistant to treatment. We leverage the metabolic traits of cancer and disarm its ability to regroup” (pg. 271).
Again, I’m not saying there’s never a time for conventional therapy, such as low-dose chemo measured out correctly, but it should not always be the go-to. The decision to aggressively attack cancer with drugs and radiation, while at the same time destroying the body, is NOT a decision to be taken lightly.
My Top Suggestions
DISCLAIMER: This content is not professional medical advice, and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. I must advise readers to consult a physician, especially if pregnant, nursing, or taking medications. Additionally, these statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
Remember: We are not guaranteed healing, but we are guaranteed intimacy … intimacy with God if we seek Him during the process.
Before we begin, let me answer a question that often comes up: “Can I use this protocol as a precautionary measure against cancer?” I know people who do just that, but that’s between you, the Lord, and your physician. Science is always changing. As I write this in the spring of 2026, this is what many experts are recommending — it could change in the future as they learn more.
The things mentioned in the following pages are simply adjuvants and not the answer in and of themselves. To defeat cancer, it takes an assault on many different fronts. For example, some repurposed drugs attack cancer because they are destabilizing agents, while others affect energy production inside the mitochondria. And certain supplements work by damaging cancer’s DNA, while others prevent growth. A calculated assault is key.
1) Ivermectin works against cancer cells in laboratory and animal studies by targeting multiple cellular mechanisms and signaling pathways, which lead to the inhibition of cancer cell proliferation, metastasis, and the promotion of cancer cell death. *Resource: National Library of Medicine
2) Fenbendazole is suggested to fight cancer primarily by inducing apoptosis (cell death), inhibiting glucose metabolism, and arresting the cell cycle in the G2/M phase, similar to chemotherapy agents. It acts as a microtubule-destabilizing agent, disrupting necessary cell division and increasing oxidative stress in cancer cells. *Resource: Scientific Reports
*Read more on Ivermectin and FenBenz here. Although some cancers may respond well to these medications, others may not. For example, when dealing with stomach and liver cancer, the toxicity load and the effectiveness of these drugs should be taken into consideration. Again, find a doctor that you can work with — they are experts, we are not.
3) LDN: Since many cancers exhibit overexpression of opioid receptors, low-dose naltrexone (LDN) shows promise as an off-label, adjuvant therapy to inhibit tumor growth and cancer cell growth by modulating the immune system and blocking the opioid growth factor-receptor (OGFr) axis.
It also may reduce squamous tumors, such as oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and head and neck cancers, primarily by inhibiting the opioid growth factor–opioid growth factor receptor (OGF–OGFr) axis. This triggers an increase in the production of endorphins, which then bind to cancer cells and inhibit their growth. *Resource here and here
4) HBOT: (hyperbaric oxygen therapy) involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber, which dramatically increases the amount of oxygen dissolved in the bloodstream and delivered to tissues, including tumors. This counters the hypoxic (low-oxygen) environment common in solid tumors, which is a major driver of cancer progression and resistance to therapy. *Resource: National Library of Medicine
5) High-dose, intravenous Vitamin C therapy (50 grams): Research indicates that at these concentrations, Vitamin C generates hydrogen peroxide, a reactive oxygen species. While normal cells can easily neutralize this compound, many tumor cells are much less capable of removing it. This leads to targeted oxidative stress that can damage the DNA and tissue of the tumor while leaving the healthy cells unharmed. *Resource: University of Iowa, Carver College of Medicine
As always, consult a healthcare professional prior to receiving high-dose intravenous vitamin C (HDIVC) treatment, especially if you have chronic kidney disease or metabolic issues. A blood panel is also recommended beforehand to screen for G6PD deficiency and prevent hemolytic anemia.
Interleukin-15: As I was finishing this booklet, much was being said about Interleukin-15 (IL-15). Supporters suggest that it drives the development, survival, and activation of T cells and Natural Killer (NK) cells. It is not currently FDA-approved for clinical use, but multiple IL-15-based agents are in clinical development. These would be in the category of immunotherapy and would be only produced through Big Pharma, which would be incredibly expensive. I haven’t had time to look into it more, so I’m not able to provide more information.
Again, science is always advancing, so more therapeutics will no doubt be available as the years progress. One promising endeavor is called Precision Oncology, in which scientists scan the DNA of cancer cells and profile which immune response is best for your genetic makeup. They use many more data points than conventional therapy, so it’s more targeted to the patient’s specific cancer.
Fight with God-given Supplements
Again, when it comes to supplements, talk with an expert in the field to better assess dosage. Cycling is also an important element of supplementation. For example, a person could take numbers #1 and #2 above for a few weeks, and then add in #3 after stopping those — then cycle off and bring something else in, or go back to the original cycle.
For example, with things like Fenbendazole — because of its possible toxicity to the liver with long-term use — cycling three days on and four days off (after hitting it hard initially), is recommended by many specialists.
Again, you should find somebody who specializes in functional medicine and take everything to the Lord. I’m not offering medical advice — I’m simply giving an illustration of cycling.
A) Laetrile (amygdalin), from apricot seeds, is probably one of the most controversial cancer supplements, but places like Oasis of Hope and others have been using it for decades. Any time the medical industry goes after doctors using natural supplements and has concerns about things like Laetrile, but says nothing about Fruit Loops, Coke, and Pop-Tarts, it raises my eyebrows.
Over the years, I’ve heard incredible testimonies from those who use this miracle seed. The idea behind Laetrile is that the tiny amount of cyanide in the apricot seed (God’s creation) kills cancer cells. Normal cells have a protective enzyme in the mitochondria that prevents them from being damaged. The Hunza people, in northern Pakistan, have historically been associated with longevity due to their high consumption of apricots and their seeds. It appears that they’re doing okay. 😏 *More here on this incredible seed
B) Black Seed Oil: A 2022 study showed that the thymoquinone in black seed oil can stop cancerous cells from proliferating and may also induce death in those cells.
C) Curcumin: A study shows that a polyphenol found in turmeric works against cancer by modulating multiple cellular and molecular pathways to inhibit cancer cell survival, proliferation, invasion, and metastasis.
D) Vitamin D: Vitamin D is not a vitamin; it’s an important hormone that affects health at a very deep level. An article in PubMed noted that the active form, calcitriol, works against cancer through various cellular and molecular mechanisms, including slowing cell growth, promoting programmed cell death (apoptosis), and reducing metastasis and angiogenesis (new blood vessel formation).
E) Mushrooms (the right kinds): And their extracts work against cancer primarily through immune system modulation and by containing bioactive compounds that can directly target cancer cell processes, such as promoting apoptosis, inhibiting proliferation, and preventing the spread of cancer. *Resource: National Library of Medicine
F) Dandelion root extract: DRE is another powerful supplement. An article in The National Library of Medicine reports, “We find that DRE is able to induce a rapid activation of the death-receptor mediated extrinsic pathway of apoptosis in human leukemia and pancreatic cancer cells in a dose and time dependent manner.” *Resource here
There are so many things to recommend, such as green tea, apple cider vinegar, baking soda, etc. But I would also focus on these four:
- Omega-3 fatty acids (specifically EPA and DHA) are another good choice due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
- Sulforaphane, found in vegetables such as broccoli, is a powerful antioxidant used to combat cancer.
- Boswellia (frankincense extract) shows promising anti-cancer effects. Are you ready for an awesome fact? Frankincense is from the sap of Boswellia trees, and Psalm 104:16 says, “the trees are full of sap.” Also, a chemical compound called DMSO is a natural supplement derived from wood bark. Revelation 22:2 says that “the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.” With so many natural remedies at our disposal, it’s amazing how many people overlook this Scripture.
- Moringa: Various extracts from the Moringa plant, including those from leaves used in teas, exhibit potential cancer-fighting properties (more here).
Oncogenes are genes that can cause cancer. Since there are over 5,000 nutrients that can turn oncogenes on or off, I could go down a deep rabbit trail, including Ozone therapy, Methylene Blue, DMSO, Pao Pereira Extract, Astaxanthin, and so on.
Again, it’s important to seek medical advice regarding dosage and application. I really wish that I could help more in this area.
There were so many other rabbit trails I could’ve taken — everything from gut microbiome to oral health — many things play a role in our overall health. But I had to stick with the basics to complete this resource.
3 More Important Keys to Healing
Many believe that cancer is more metabolic than genetic. Genes may load the gun, but lifestyle definitely pulls the trigger. Therefore, this section is one of the most important parts of this booklet.
Parents must also fight for the health of their children. The Cancer Research Institute released an article in 2026 titled: Colorectal Cancer Rates Are Skyrocketing in Young Adults. We are setting them up for failure before they even begin. When the pantry and the refrigerator contain only good food, guess what the kids will eat? A “treat” now and then should not be a “staple” in our homes. Yes, they will complain, but eventually, they’ll ask for carrots and apples. Nursing moms, your diet will greatly affect the quality of life-giving milk. Choose wisely.
Many times, when cancer returns, it’s because the fortress of the body wasn’t guarded. Being in remission is not a time to go back to destructive habits; it’s a time to keep fighting.
Food delivers nutrients that signal cellular responses that deeply affect epigenetics — the process of turning on and off certain genetic switches. The right food delivers the right things; the wrong food turns on the wrong switch. Please don’t minimize nutrition. (Watch a powerful illustration here on Instagram.)
Traditional treatments may work at the surface of cancer — but nutrition works at the source of cancer.
1) Plants vs. Meat? Eat Real Food: Eating real, God-given food in moderation (with fasting) is the BIGGEST change you can make: Food either fights disease, or feeds it.
Point to ponder: If diet doesn’t matter, why do they use sugar (glucose) to find cancer in the body during a PET scan? Fluorodeoxyglucose to be exact. Because most cancer cells primarily use glucose (sugar) for energy, a phenomenon known as the Warburg effect, ketogenic diets have a potential positive effect on cancer.
Side note: Because PET scans measure glucose metabolism rather than specifically identifying cancer, “positive” results can occur from infection, inflammation, or healing tissue, rather than malignancy. *Resource here
Some recommend a low-carbohydrate, high-fat keto diet to force the body into a state of ketosis, burning fat for fuel and producing molecules called ketones. Researchers are exploring how this metabolic shift may starve tumors, as many cancer cells lack the flexibility to use ketones for fuel and growth when glucose is restricted.
While cancer cells are known for rapid glucose consumption (the Warburg Effect), they can rewire their metabolism to synthesize glucose intermediates from non-carbohydrate sources like lactate and amino acids when glucose is scarce. So I recently presented this question to Derek Lee, PhD. (an expert in the field of glucose and cancer):
“If cancer feeds off of glucose and glutamine as well as fatty acids, and can even convert muscle into carbohydrates via gluconeogenesis, why is glucose the main consideration in relation to diet?”
Dr. Lee responded, “Not all fuels are created equal for a cancer cell. For example, you can put as many fatty acids into a culture dish as you want, but if there is no glucose and glutamine, then the cells will still die. It’s not to say that fatty acids or whatever alternative fuel doesn’t matter, but they are secondary.”
He adds, “It’s kind of like trying to knock down a house by knocking off the top-most level first (other fuels, in this example) or going straight for the ground floor/foundation (the glucose and glutamine). Furthermore, a lot of the studies that make these extraordinary claims about the role of fatty acids or other fuels do so without severely limiting the glucose or glutamine first.”
Dr. Lee then makes a powerful point, “So sure, if you give a cancer cell as much glucose as it wants, and then put something else on top of it, it might grow slightly faster, but of course we would never set up the body in a surplus of everything (meaning we wouldn’t give our body excess ultra processed carbohydrates and tons of additional calories through dietary fat and protein and not expect the cancer to grow quickly when it has a surplus of everything).”
Clearly, being ketogenic has other positive effects of low inflammation, positive epigenetic changes, etc. beyond strictly metabolite utilization. In short, although many prefer a ketogenic diet to fight cancer, nothing is bulletproof, but it may be a good place to begin for many people. Research is also showing how high insulin levels can contribute to many different health-related problems, including pancreatic cancer.
The University of British Columbia reports that “high insulin levels (hyperinsulinemia) can contribute to pancreatic cancer by overstimulating pancreatic acinar cells, which produce digestive juices. This chronic overstimulation causes inflammation that can convert these cells into precancerous forms.” Thus, insulin fuels cell replication and other survival pathways that can fuel tumor development and growth.
IMPORTANT: At this point, it gets a little tricky. Many longevity experts, such as David A. Sinclair and Valter Longo, as well as Oasis of Hope, advocate whole, plant-based foods, while others suggest clean meat and vegetables to stay in ketosis. Personally, although I substantially reduced my carbohydrate intake, I never followed a purely ketogenic diet (under 25 grams). I was probably around 75 grams total for the day — bordering on ketosis, especially with exercise burning a lot of my stored glucose. Although it is challenging, you can stay on a keto diet without animal products, but care must be taken to avoid nutrient deficiencies such as with Vitamin B12, iron, etc.
With plants, more glucose is produced from the carbohydrates, but their powerful phytochemicals also bring much-needed nutrition to the body. However, meat produces more IGF-1 and mTOR. Both are signaling pathways for cell growth. But maintaining adequate protein is important to prevent the body from wasting away. Many experts say that an animal-based ketogenic diet is typically more favorable than a plant-based one for this reason, as well as removing the primary fuel source — glucose.
Granted, plant proteins typically have lower levels of specific amino acids that drive growth pathways in cells. And plant proteins are absorbed more slowly than rapidly digested animal proteins. This also decreases the signal for cell growth factors such as mTOR and IGF-1. As I said, it gets confusing.
What Diet is Best Then?
Because of everything mentioned above, this question caused me a lot of stress. But I began to rest in God’s sovereignty. If I happen to have too many blueberries or consume meat, I don’t think it’s going to throw God off track. God created food to be consumed in moderation. Do what you can, then leave the results to Him. It’s not biblical to worry (cf. Matthew 6:25-34).
The BIGGEST step you can take is to remove highly processed foods. From bags of chips and crackers to fast food, and from unhealthy snacks to refined vegetable oils, removing them and eating God’s food is the most important step you can take. We can’t go wrong following His design.
Although most longevity studies point to plant foods as the best diet for health and longevity — beans, for example, contain several compounds with potential cancer-fighting properties, including fiber — some studies lack equal comparisons. For example, many groups of people who were studied for their longevity lived in harsher conditions than many of us do. They had limited food and were much more active. They also led more demanding lives. Hormesis (the phenomenon in which stress-inducing activities trigger beneficial responses) truly was in their favor.
My Diet: Based on the biblical account of creation (that we were designed to eat primarily plants), I focus on living, low-glycemic plant foods with high nutrient density, as well as moderate amounts of raw nuts, seeds, and berries, along with fresh-caught fish and clean eggs (and consume grass-fed/finished meat and raw dairy sparingly when available).
When God fed the children of Israel in the wilderness, He provided “bread from heaven” known as manna (Exodus 16:4). The people made it into cakes or boiled it. It had the appearance of bdellium (from trees). The Bible states the manna tasted like wafers made with honey. The perfect food that God chose appears to be plant-based, not meat-based. This is rather compelling for me. Then God brought in millions of quail because the people “lusted for meat.”
Personally, I don’t eat a ton of meat or dairy, although biblically speaking, it’s allowed, and it was much cleaner back then. And many people have benefited from a meat-based, keto diet.
Interestingly, many studies show that charred meat creates Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) and Heterocyclic Amines (HCAs). Cancer.gov notes: “These compounds can alter DNA and increase cancer risk, with studies linking high consumption to colorectal and prostate cancers.”
Some reports even suggest that “cancer cells can accumulate a non-human sugar molecule called Neu5Gc (N-Glycolylneuraminic acid), which is found in red meat and dairy, to form a protective shield and fuel tumor growth.” But, a recent study showed that “a different nutrient found in beef and dairy, Trans-vaccenic acid (TVA), actually improves the ability of CD8+ T cells to kill cancer cells, acting opposite to the shielding effect mentioned above.” *Resources here and here
This tells me that God allows plants and meat to be consumed, with plants being the primary source of nutrition. Moderation is key, and your overall lifestyle plays a HUGE role in either fighting disease or fueling it. (For more on what the Bible says about food, click here and scroll to page 42.)
To sum it up:
- Eat God-given, primarily plant food, in moderate amounts within an 8-hour eating window. For those consuming meat and dairy, make sure it’s very clean, such as grass-fed/grass-finished, and definitely avoid luncheon meats and cheese.
- Although “organic” doesn’t always mean void of chemicals, it’s still the best choice. Many fruits and vegetables contain dangerous levels of glyphosate and paraquat. Paraquat is a toxic herbicide banned in over 60 countries. What does that tell you?
- Don’t snack. This leads to constant spikes in insulin and blood sugar. Also, consider walking after eating to regulate both.
- Avoid junk carbohydrates such as crackers, chips, most breads, rice, pasta, etc. Carbohydrates should come primarily from vegetables and a little bit of fruit. I believe that ultra-processed foods are the primary cause of cancer and disease.
- Remove unhealthy food from your home. Out of sight is out of mind. I also became a huge fan of harvesting sprouts, such as broccoli, kale, alfalfa, lentils, etc. Sprouts are possibly the most nutritious food on the planet.
- Exercise consistently and work up to 10,000 steps a day, along with basic weight training.
- Consider taking cancer-fighting supplements and consuming a lot of cancer-fighting plant foods. Grated lemon peels, for example, have many health benefits, as do countless vegetables and fruits. Sweet means energy, salty equates to minerals, and bitter is often associated with healing.
- Fully seek and surrender to God. This is by far the most important step.
WHAT ABOUT JUICING? If you go this route, consider organic green vegetable juice in moderation (e.g., parsley, cilantro, cucumber, celery, lemon, lime, broccoli, kale, and a tiny bit of green apple). Fruit juice contains much more glucose (the thing we’re trying to avoid).
However, like many of you, I’ve heard amazing testimonies from those who have juiced nutrient-dense foods to fight cancer. Many have also had success with the Buchinger Fasting Method. It allows for approximately 250 calories a day (primarily from organic green juice). Although it’s not as deep as water fasting, it works really well.
Choosing the right diet can be baffling, this is why we must seek God for direction and wisdom. When you don’t know what to do, step out in faith and trust Him. His sovereignty is the key to keeping your sanity.
2) Incorporate intermittent fasting: Every time we eat, it raises blood glucose levels (fuel for cells). Use wisdom here, especially when it comes to snacking. God created us to eat, but not all the time. A minimum of a 12-hour fasting window and up to 18 hours is ideal. Because I am an emotional eater, this can be challenging, but it can be done.
Dr. Longo writes in The Longevity Diet that by reducing “calories from proteins and sugars, you can decrease the activities of the growth of hormone receptors that accelerate aging.” (See pg. 57.) I believe that we are experiencing a national health crisis because we are eating the wrong types of food and too much of it. Begin here as soon as possible.
But even with fasting windows, it’s good to mix it up and throw in a day of normal eating each week. Also, add seasons of caloric restriction. Dr. Valter Longo, head of The Longevity Institute at USC, has a wealth of information on this topic. In short, calorie restriction has significant benefits, but it can also have negative effects if done too often.
I’m also a big proponent of prolonged water fasting. But a lot depends upon where you’re at in your journey. For example, how depleted your body is, medical conditions, etc., all play a role in determining the length. It would be best to do this under supervision while seeking medical advice.
I probably wouldn’t recommend water fasting for someone who is emaciated and at stage four cancer, simply because very healthy food could promote healing. (If you decide to go the conventional route with chemotherapy, please research Valter Longo’s work at USC regarding how fasting helps preserve healthy cells during chemotherapy.)
Disease is often a problem of toxicity created by what we consume, ingest, or breathe — and fasting is the detox solution. Granted, spiritual health and wholeness are the goals when fasting, but the physical benefits are worthwhile. Dr. J. H. Tilden said, “After fifty-five years of sojourning in the wilderness of medical therapeutics, I am forced to declare … that fasting is the only reliable, specific, therapeutic eliminant known to man.”
Autophagy (cellular cleansing) occurs when we fast, which can break down the tumor cells for fuel, but it can also protect established cancer cells by acting as a survival mechanism under stress, as it recycles nutrients and maintains energy (more here). Only God knows how to tilt the scale back in a favorable direction. Seek Him.
KEY: Reaching your ideal body weight is also very important. Obesity is destructive and affects many issues within our body. Start now — don’t wait. Health can’t be a fad; it must become a lifestyle. Use the stumbling block of cancer to become a stepping stone toward fitness.
3) Sleep, rest, move: Sleep is when the body repairs itself. Focus on getting a good night’s sleep. There are many tips available, such as no electronics an hour before bed; instead, read the Bible or a good book and pray, pray, pray.
Avoid eating three hours before bed, and avoid caffeine after 10 a.m. Yes, you can still fall asleep after having caffeine, but it’s much harder to reach deep R.E.M. sleep.
Consider supplements that aid sleep, such as melatonin, valerian root, magnesium, and L-theanine, to reduce unnecessary stress. Melatonin has also shown promise as a supportive agent in cancer treatment.
Be encouraged, I had some very difficult nights of sleep too, but you can eventually rest as you rest in Him. If you have a poor night’s sleep and get up early, put on worship, grab a cup of green tea, and worship God. Pray, “Lord, what are you teaching me? Help me become gracious, thankful, and humble. Are You trying to get my attention — what changes can I make?”
These early morning worship times were some of the most precious seasons I’ve ever had with the Lord.
In regard to exercise, Cancer.org sums it up well: “Exercise is crucial for cancer patients before, during, and after treatment to reduce severe fatigue, boost physical function, and improve mental health. Regular activity helps combat treatment side effects like neuropathy and lymphedema, lowers the risk of cancer recurrence, improves treatment tolerance, and can increase overall survival rates.”
Be Careful with Peptides
Additionally, I would use wisdom when considering the new trend of taking peptides without knowing what you’re doing. Some argue that certain ones may stimulate, not directly cause, tumor growth. Some hormones fuel cancer. For example, Lupron® is used to stop the spread of prostate cancer by significantly dropping testosterone.
Peptides such as CJC-1295, Ipamorelin, and Tesamorelin increase IGF-1 levels that may encourage growth. Additionally, some suggest that BPC-157 and TB-500 carry potential risks due to their ability to promote the growth of new capillary vessels.
But many have benefited from targeting peptides, peptide therapeutics, and anti-cancer peptide sources. I’m talking primarily about growth factor peptides. *Resources here, and here
As an example of a possible therapeutic peptide, 5-amino-1MQ stands out to me because it inhibits the enzyme called nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT). This may show promise for cancer patients because by inhibiting NNMT, you can improve glucose tolerance, reduce hepatic glucose output, and enhance insulin sensitivity by increasing energy expenditure. Remember, the primary fuel for cancer is glucose. *Resources here and here
But again, we must use wisdom before diving into something that many of us don’t know much about, especially when it comes to growing cells. And our focus should not be on “looks” but on “health.”
Starve the Enemy
Many people take supplements and incorporate a few biohacks here and there, but their diet consists primarily of dead, highly processed food. You can’t win a war if you’re constantly feeding the enemy.
Diet and lifestyle changes are among the biggest factors in overcoming disease. Even if you can’t implement all the protocols listed here, all of us can make important diet and lifestyle changes. We shouldn’t choose some good habits while allowing a lot of bad habits.
My BIGGEST Lesson
Nothing works perfectly. We must trust in God and Him alone. He may take away all hope, so that we finally look to the One who is Hope.
Do what you can, but don’t become obsessed with worrying about every little detail — everything from toxins and microplastics to environmental overloads, and from not eating perfectly to forgetting to take supplements. Yes, avoid harmful environments and foods loaded with pesticides, but if you become overly concerned, rigid, judgmental, and fearful, it will rob you of peace and joy. Again, do everything you can up to a certain point, and leave the results to God.
The Only True Hope
For those who don’t know the one true and living God, your journey must begin here. I would encourage you to repent today and ask Jesus Christ to save you from your sins. He truly is our only hope. Read more here.
For Christians, my hope and prayer is that God would show you the best path for your life. Ideally, you should pray and meditate on Scripture throughout the day. Memorize Philippians 4:4-9, and simply trust in God.
I pray that my motto would become yours as well: “His sovereignty is my sanity.”
“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” — Psalm 27:1
For Additional Help
For additional encouragement, watch the sermons below that sparked this content. And again, all my books are available as free downloads at wcfav.org.
-When Your World Falls Apart, here.
-The Dark Night of the Soul, here.
-In Case of Emergency, Break This, here.
-Lessons While Walking Through the Valley of the Shadow of Death, here.
Shane Idleman is the founder and lead pastor of Westside Christian Fellowship in Southern California. More can be found here.
The Dark Night of the Soul
Finding Hope in the Midst of Pain
Oh God, Would You Rend the Heavens?
Understanding and Contending for a Genuine Spiritual Awakening
I Almost Quit
My Journey of Leading Through the Landmines of Ministry
40 Days to Reset Your Life
Applying God’s Wisdom for Physical and Spiritual Renewal
If My People
In Case of National Emergency, Read This
Help I’m Addicted
Overcoming the Cravings that Overcome You
Feasting and Fasting
One Nation ‘Above’ God
Desperate For More of God
The Heart Cry of Every Believer
Answers for a Confused Church
Times Change — Truth Does Not
What Works for Men
Regaining Lost Ground
What Works for Singles
For Relationships, for Marriage, for Life
What Works When “Diets” Don’t
Find Out What Works, What Doesn’t, and Why … While Staying Focused on the Goal, Not the Challenge!
What Works for Young Adults
Solid Choices for Unstable Times
