The Budwig Protocol: Fight Cancer in Your Kitchen
- Kelly McClintock, MA, LICDC-CS, MCAP
- Feb 27
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 28

The renowned Budwig Protocol has been around for half a century and uses nothing more than some simple ingredients you can grab at the grocery store. But does it work? Let’s dive in.
What Is the Budwig Protocol?
In the 1950s, the Budwig Protocol was created by Dr. Johanna Budwig, a German biochemist and pharmacist. Dr. Budwig claimed to have over a 90 percent success rate using her protocol, which is based on the idea that cancer cells thrive in an oxygen-starved environment and that certain dietary fats can help restore healthy cell function. Her solution? A combination of flaxseed oil and cottage cheese.
The idea is that when you mix these together, they create a water-soluble form of omega-3 fatty acids that the body can easily absorb, which helps oxygenate cells, fight inflammation, and heal cancer and other chronic diseases.
Numerous published cancer studies and hundreds of scientific research papers have confirmed the validity of Dr. Budwig’s findings. Many studies further suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may help slow the growth of tumors and improve overall health (NIH, 2023). Additionally, omega-3s and proper cellular oxygenation are beneficial and play a key role in disease prevention.
The Magic Recipe
You don’t need a prescription or a secret handshake to get started with the Budwig Protocol. Here’s how you do it:
Simply combine cottage cheese and flaxseed oil in a 2:1 ratio, alongside a small amount of honey. The key is to emulsify the cheese and oil.
Budwig
4 oz of 1% cottage cheese, low-fat quark, or goat’s milk kefir
2 ounces (oz) of flaxseed oil
1 tablespoon of honey
Flaxseeds or fresh fruit optional
1. Mix the flaxseed oil and cottage cheese until completely blended (a hand blender works best).
*It’s very important to emulsify the mixture until the oil is no longer visible (use a bullet, hand mixer, blender, etc.).
2. Add honey, ground flaxseeds or fresh organic fruit if desired.
3. Consume immediately for best absorption.
4. Repeat daily.
The Diet
The protocol is more than just cottage cheese and flax oil. The plan also focuses heavily on
including the following foods in your diet:
fruits
vegetables
fiber
And avoiding:
dairy
pork/shellfish/processed meats
sugar/processed foods
refined and hydrogenated oils
The Health Benefits of the Budwig Protocol
Here are some of the touted benefits:
Cellular Oxygenation – According to Budwig’s research, this mixture helps improve oxygenation at the cellular level, which could starve cancer cells of the low-oxygen environment they need to thrive.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties – Flaxseed oil is packed with omega-3s, which have well-documented anti-inflammatory effects (NIH, 2023).
Improved Heart Health – Omega-3s are great for reducing bad cholesterol and improving cardiovascular function.
Boosts the Immune System – Many holistic health experts suggest that this protocol may help strengthen the immune system.
Natural and Non-Toxic – Unlike conventional cancer treatments, this therapy doesn’t involve radiation or chemotherapy—just whole foods.
Who Should Consider Using the Budwig Protocol?
The Budwig Protocol might be a great option if you:
Are looking for a natural, complementary approach to cancer care.
Want to incorporate more omega-3s into your diet for general wellness.
Have chronic inflammation or other metabolic issues.
Are curious about alternative health practices (and don’t mind a little cottage cheese in your life).
Risks and Considerations
While this protocol is generally safe, there are a few things to keep in mind:
Dairy Sensitivities – If you’re lactose intolerant, cottage cheese might not be your best friend.
Medication Interactions – Omega-3s can act as blood thinners, so check with your doctor if you’re on medication.
Not a Miracle Cure – While it may support overall health, it’s not a guaranteed cancer cure, and should be used alongside medical advice.
References:
NIH: Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Cancer Research (2023)
Dr. Peter Attia on Cardiovascular Benefits of Omega-3s (2024)
Dr. Mercola’s Research on Cellular Oxygenation (2023)
Dr. Josh Axe’s Take on Flaxseed and Inflammation (2024)
Gary Brecka on Natural Cancer Support (2024)
That’s a Wrap
Bottom line: the Budwig Protocol offers many potential benefits and poses little or no risk to humans. For these reasons, Budwig continues to be a logical and popular adjunct strategy that is part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Would you try it? Let us know in the comments!

Comments