Juicing removes fiber from fruits and veggies; consuming them in a solid form is the healthier option. Fiber is known to be effective in preventing certain types of cancers, such as colon cancer.

If ‘experts’ on social media are to be believed, there’s an easy way to cure cancer: Drink “green juice”. The myths about juicing were once restricted to instant weight loss. However, today, there are countless articles and videos on social media claiming that cancer can be prevented and cured by a daily intake of vegetable – and in some cases, fruit – juice. You can watch some viral videos in Hindi here and here.

The social media rhetoric is based on the rationale that fruits and vegetables are powerful sources of antioxidants. Antioxidants are known to help fight cancer. However, despite the popularity of the claim, there’s no scientific evidence to support it. Incidentally, there are some studies on the protective effect of fruits and vegetables – not juices – on cancer risk.

Juicing removes fiber from fruits and veggies; consuming them in a solid form is the healthier option. Fiber is known to be effective in preventing certain types of cancers, such as colon cancer.

Dr Jayesh D Patel, a surgical oncologist based in Ahmedabad, India, notes that unscientific rhetoric often uses scientific terms to influence people who may not be well-versed with the subject. “Science is based on data and evidence, not anecdotal accounts. It’s important to understand this basic fact and not fall for misleading health claims,” he urges.

“Consult a healthcare expert in case you have a tumour. If untreated, cancer can lead to metastasis, a condition where it spreads to different parts of the body,” says the oncologist.

There are no miracle cures for cancer. However, there are evidence-based treatments that are available today.

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