Quick Take
A social media post claims that consuming soursop and sodium bicarbonate can treat stage 4 cancer. We fact-checked and found this claim to be False.
The Claim
The caption of a Facebook post reads, “House for any one with cancer even at stage 4 this information will help you surely you must come and thank me later i really need your Testimony.
1. Get a cup of hot water add a spoon of molasses and a spoon of bicarbonate soda take ones a day and in ten days the result will amaze u.
Or
2.boil enough soursop leaf take a cup with a spoon of baking soda daily and give me your testimony please”
Fact Check
What is soursop?
Soursop is a fruit of the Annona muricata tree grown in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Soursop is also called graviola, guanabana, guyabano, Brazilian paw paw and custard apple.
What is stage 4 cancer?
Stage four cancer refers to cancer that has spread to distant organs or tissues from its original site. When the cancer reaches this stage, ir is typically considered advanced and more challenging to treat. Treatment options for stage four cancer usually involve a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy, or hormone therapy, depending on the type and location of the cancer.
Can baking soda treat cancer?
Not exactly. Baking soda is an alkaline substance that has been promoted as a cancer cure by some alternative health practitioners. Baking soda is an alkaline mineral that is effective at neutralizing acidity. It is believed that cancer cells flourish in acidic environments, and some believe it may help neutralize acidity in the body to help fight against cancer. However, there is a lack of established scientific evidence to support these claims. Some studies suggest that the combination of sodium bicarbonate with other anticancer therapies might be effective. However, large scale trials are needed to confirm this. In fact, some studies have shown that baking soda can be harmful for health and be poisonous in large amounts.
Can soursop treat cancer?
Not exactly. The available scientific evidence suggests soursop has a cytotoxic effect and can kill cancer cells. But no research explains the mechanism followed by soursop to target and kill cancer cells already spread within the body. The same has been suggested by an article published in 2015. This article informs that soursop extract has shown promising results in laboratory studies. But there is no foolproof evidence to show soursop works as a cure for cancer in humans. Hence, a conclusive outcome has yet to be achieved so far. Additionally, Cancercenter.com informs that experts warn against using soursop to treat cancer. While research papers suggest soursop has some curative properties against cancer, they have not been studied in humans. So, there is no evidence of soursop safety or efficacy.
We even tried to find possible side effects of consuming too much soursop. A few research papers show eating too much soursop can cause symptoms that mimic Parkinson’s disease.
Can stage four cancer be cured with baking soda and soursop?
No. There is currently no scientific evidence to support the claim that baking soda and soursop can cure stage four cancer. In fact, there is no evidence that either of these substances can be used to treat cancer at any stage. While some natural remedies and alternative treatments may have potential health benefits, it’s crucial to rely on evidence-based medical treatments for cancer.
As explained above, even though there are some purported benefits of baking soda and soursop in treating or aiding in cancer treatment, further large scale studies are needed to confirm the claims. Never discontinue doctor-prescribed cancer treatment and always discuss any complementary or supplementary therapies with your doctor.
Why is it essential to not blindly follow any remedy for cancer treatment?
It’s essential for individuals diagnosed with cancer to consult with their healthcare team, including oncologists and other medical professionals who specialize in cancer treatment.
Dr. P. Rammanohar, Research Director, Amrita School of Ayurveda shares , “Cancer is not a single disease and there is no remedy for cancer. Different types of cancer are treated with different procedures of chemotherapy. One drug does not work across all cancers. Even though some studies have shown soursop may have anticancer benefits for prostate, breast, colorectal, and pancreatic cancers, the plant cannot be used to treat patients. The reason is the lack of enough studies that can show the impact of the plant against cancer in humans. The available research is done mostly on animals.”
Please note, it’s crucial to rely on scientifically validated treatments when dealing with serious medical conditions like cancer. Only medical experts can provide personalized advice and guide you through the most effective and evidence-based treatment options available.
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