Uncommon cravings for foods like chocolate, pizza, and even whole lemons, are typically associated with pregnancy. However, medical professionals are now observing that similar urges may signal underlying cancers. Research indicates that such cravings could be linked to cancers, particularly breast, ovarian, and endometrial types.
Just as cravings during pregnancy diminish after childbirth, these taste distortions related to cancer often fade following treatment. In an Instagram video that has garnered nearly two million views, an influencer remarks, ‘Many doctors are convinced: the body sends SIGNALS long before any diagnosis.’ They describe a particularly striking phenomenon: a sudden and almost obsessive desire for a specific food, which may occur two to three months prior to a cancer diagnosis. ‘It’s not just “I want to treat myself,” but as if the body is shouting: “Give me this right now.”’
Examples of Cravings
According to the influencer, one woman reported an intense craving for pickle brine and crackers shortly before being diagnosed with kidney cancer. Another individual found herself suddenly enamored with dairy products. Family members misinterpreted these changes in taste as mere phases or new preferences. ‘In reality, the body sends messages in advance—most just delete them without even opening,’ they said.
Research Insights
Studies have also suggested that shifts in dietary preferences may be precursors to cancer diagnoses. A 2022 review conducted by Italian researchers analyzed seven studies that found food cravings are associated with various cancers, including breast cancer, lymphoma, and ovarian or endometrial cancer. ‘We strongly recommend food behavior screening for cancer patients, both at the initial visit and during the follow-up period, in order to promptly detect any potential alteration in food behavior,’ the researchers noted. However, they acknowledged a significant knowledge gap in this area.
Historical Observations
Dr. Thurstan Brewin from the Glasgow Institute of Oncology reported over 40 years ago that one in four of his patients experienced inexplicable loss of appetite for foods they once enjoyed months before their diagnoses. For instance, one patient’s aversion to tea made it ‘most unpleasant,’ while another described cheese as tasting ‘like chewing gum.’ Brewin noted that while these cravings typically disappeared after treatment, the reasons behind them remained unclear.
Expert Commentary
In an interview with the American Medical Association, Dr. Amar Kelkar, a stem cell transplantation physician at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, explained that peculiar cravings for items like ice or dirt could reflect the body’s urgent response to a deficiency. ‘Basically, you’re having some urgency to replace an iron craving. But we don’t have any way to manifest that,’ he stated. A blood test can identify anemia, potentially pointing to serious conditions such as colon or colorectal cancer.
Despite these insights, some experts caution that more research is needed. Claims suggesting sugar cravings indicate cancer presence are unfounded. The relationship between sugar and cancer remains complex, with no definitive evidence linking the two.
