Stomach cancer is a serious health problem that affects millions of people worldwide. The risk of developing stomach cancer can be influenced by many factors including genetics, lifestyle, and diet.

In recent years, research has shown that diet plays a significant role in the development of stomach cancer, and certain dietary habits can increase the risk of developing this cancer. In this article, we will discuss how diet can double the risk of stomach cancer and what dietary changes can help reduce the risk of this cancer.

How Diet Affects Stomach Cancer

Stomach cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the cells lining the stomach. There are several ways in which diet can affect the risk of developing stomach cancer:.

1. Processed and Red Meat Consumption

Several studies have linked the consumption of processed and red meat to an increased risk of stomach cancer. Processed meats are those that have been preserved by smoking, curing, or any other method that involves adding chemicals.

Red meats include beef, pork, lamb, and other types of meat that come from mammals. The longer the meat is cooked, the higher the risk of stomach cancer.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified processed meat as a Group 1 carcinogen, meaning that it is known to cause cancer in humans, while red meat is classified as a Group 2A carcinogen, meaning it is probably carcinogenic to humans. Eating less processed and red meat can lower the risk of developing stomach cancer.

2. Salt Consumption

High salt consumption is another dietary factor that can increase the risk of developing stomach cancer. Salt is a preservative and is used in many processed foods and fast foods.

A diet high in salt can cause damage to the lining of the stomach, leading to inflammation and the formation of cancerous cells. Reducing the consumption of salt and avoiding processed foods can help lower the risk of developing stomach cancer.

3. Low Fruit and Vegetable Consumption

A diet low in fruits and vegetables can also increase the risk of developing stomach cancer. Fruits and vegetables contain a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help protect the body from cancer.

A diet high in fruits and vegetables can lower the risk of developing stomach cancer.

4. Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol consumption is another dietary factor that can increase the risk of developing stomach cancer. Heavy alcohol consumption can cause damage to the lining of the stomach, leading to inflammation and the formation of cancerous cells.

Reducing alcohol consumption can help lower the risk of developing stomach cancer.

5. Obesity

Obesity is a condition characterized by excess body fat, which can increase the risk of developing several diseases, including stomach cancer. Obesity can cause inflammation in the lining of the stomach, leading to the formation of cancerous cells.

Maintaining a healthy weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise can help lower the risk of developing stomach cancer.

6. High Glycemic Index Foods

High glycemic index foods are foods that are quickly digested and lead to a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. Foods that have a high glycemic index include white bread, sugary drinks, and white rice.

A diet high in these foods can increase the risk of developing stomach cancer. Choosing low glycemic index foods such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help lower the risk of developing stomach cancer.

7. Low Vitamin C Consumption

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps protect the body from cancer. A diet low in vitamin C can increase the risk of developing stomach cancer. Foods that are high in vitamin C include oranges, strawberries, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts.

Increasing the consumption of foods that are high in vitamin C can help lower the risk of developing stomach cancer.

8. Low Folate Consumption

Folate is a B vitamin that helps repair DNA and prevent the formation of cancerous cells. A diet low in folate can increase the risk of developing stomach cancer. Foods that are high in folate include leafy green vegetables, citrus fruits, and beans.

Increasing the consumption of foods that are high in folate can help lower the risk of developing stomach cancer.

9. Low Selenium Consumption

Selenium is an antioxidant that helps protect the body from cancer. A diet low in selenium can increase the risk of developing stomach cancer. Foods that are high in selenium include Brazil nuts, seafood, and whole grains.

Increasing the consumption of foods that are high in selenium can help lower the risk of developing stomach cancer.

10. Low Vitamin E Consumption

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect the body from cancer. A diet low in vitamin E can increase the risk of developing stomach cancer. Foods that are high in vitamin E include nuts, seeds, and leafy green vegetables.

Increasing the consumption of foods that are high in vitamin E can help lower the risk of developing stomach cancer.

Conclusion

Diet plays a significant role in the development of stomach cancer. Certain dietary habits can increase the risk of developing this cancer while others can help lower the risk.

Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help lower the risk of developing stomach cancer. Avoiding processed and red meat, reducing salt and alcohol consumption, and maintaining a healthy weight through a healthy diet and regular exercise can also help lower the risk of developing stomach cancer.