Rethinking Cancer in the Age of Metabolic Health

Lynn Hughes

on

Thursday, February 20, 2025

Rethinking Cancer in the Age of Metabolic Health

We are in the middle of a health revolution. Metabolic disorders like diabetes, obesity, and heart disease have skyrocketed—and cancer is no exception. As researchers dig deeper, they are uncovering a critical link: cancer thrives in the same metabolic conditions that drive other chronic diseases. What does this mean for prevention and treatment? It means rethinking cancer as a metabolic disease, where environment, energy production, and inflammation play a bigger role than we once believed.

In a compelling presentation for Metabolic Health Day, Adam Payne, CEO of Ultra Botanica, explores this very topic. He breaks down the science behind the metabolic nature of cancer, the role of mitochondria, and how our understanding of cancer is shifting away from the traditional genetic model.

Is Cancer Really a Genetic Disease?

For decades, cancer has been treated as a disease of genetic mutations, leading to a focus on targeted therapies designed to block specific mutations. Yet, these treatments have had limited long-term success. Why? Because cancer cells evolve—they develop resistance, adapt to new treatments, and often return stronger than before.

But what if the root cause of cancer isn’t genetic damage, but rather how cells respond to stress and dysfunction in their environment? Payne highlights groundbreaking research showing that cancer cells rely on ancient survival mechanisms when their environment becomes toxic, leading to uncontrolled growth and altered metabolism.

The Role of Mitochondria and the Warburg Effect

One of the most striking findings in metabolic cancer research is that cancer cells don’t produce energy the same way healthy cells do. Healthy cells use their mitochondria to efficiently create energy. But nearly all cancer cells shift to an inefficient, oxygen-independent process called glycolysis, even when oxygen is available—a phenomenon known as the Warburg Effect.

Why does this matter? Because the metabolic environment of the body plays a direct role in cancer’s ability to grow and spread. Inflammation, poor nutrient availability, and high blood sugar levels all contribute to this metabolic dysfunction, making it harder for the body to fight cancer naturally.

How This Changes the Approach to Cancer Prevention and Treatment

If cancer is, at its core, a metabolic disease, then targeting metabolism—not just genetics—could open new doors for prevention and treatment. This means:
✅ Supporting mitochondrial health through nutrition, exercise, and key metabolic therapies
✅ Reducing systemic inflammation that fuels cancer growth
✅ Creating an environment where cancer cells struggle to survive rather than thrive

These are some of the key principles behind the Metabolic Approach to Cancer, which has been gaining recognition among researchers and clinicians.

Watch the Full Webinar & Learn More

The full presentation from Adam Payne dives deeper into these concepts, providing a comprehensive look at the metabolic nature of cancer and how we can address it at its root cause.

This session is just one of the many expert-led presentations available through Metabolic Health Day, an interactive event featuring cutting-edge insights on metabolic health, patient stories, and practical tools for taking charge of your health — and it's all available for free thanks to our generous sponsors.

Visit the Metabolic Health Day Virtual Event Space to access a wealth of educational content, including exclusive recordings like Ultra Botanica's presentation. While exploring the space, you’ll also have the opportunity to donate to support grants for cancer patients seeking metabolic-based care. Every contribution creates meaningful impact!

🔗 Watch the full session and access all Metabolic Health Day content here.

Metabolic Health Day Goes LIVE! Join Us for Our First In-Person Conference

For years, we’ve envisioned a space where healthcare professionals, researchers, farmers, advocates, and patients can unite to challenge and redefine our understanding of both human and planetary health.

That vision is now becoming a reality at our inaugural two-day Metabolic Health Day Conference, taking place on:

📅 October 10-11, 2025
📍 Loews Ventana Canyon Resort | Tucson, AZ

This event is dedicated to exploring the many facets of metabolic health—from the impact of our environment on well-being to innovative approaches in prevention and care.

Although our expert presenters are still being finalized, you can look forward to a series of thought-provoking talks, including:

🌱 The Microbiome: Exploring the connection between soil health and human health
🧠 Mental Health & Metabolic Disorders: Unpacking the interplay between the mind and body
🌿 Environmental Stress: Understanding how our surroundings shape metabolic health
🤝 Prevention Initiatives: Highlighting early interventions and community-based strategies

We’re also proud to feature a diverse lineup of voices, including farmers who will share firsthand insights on how sustainable agricultural practices can enhance metabolic well-being.

Whether you’re a provider, researcher, patient, or simply someone passionate about advancing the future of health, this summit offers a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired by fresh perspectives in the field.