Most people know that smoking, excessive sun exposure, and exposure to certain chemicals increase the risk of cancer, but few people realize that their diet can also have a big impact on their cancer risk.
There are certain foods and beverages that have been linked to a higher risk of cancer. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the things you should avoid to minimize your risk of cancer.
Sugar
Sugar has been linked to numerous health problems, including an increased risk of cancer.
The American Society of Clinical Oncology has warned that sugar consumption is linked to an increased risk of cancer, and numerous studies have found that high levels of sugar consumption can lead to obesity, which is a major risk factor for many types of cancer. Try to limit your sugar intake as much as possible. Avoid sugary beverages like soda or sports drinks, and opt for water, herbal tea, or unsweetened coffee or tea.
Processed Meats
Processed meats like bacon, sausage, and deli meats have been linked to an increased risk of cancer.
When processed meats are cooked at high temperatures, they can form cancer-causing compounds called heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). If you must eat processed meats, try to choose ones that are uncured and free from nitrites and nitrates.
Alcohol
There is a strong link between alcohol consumption and an increased risk of cancer. Drinking even small amounts of alcohol can increase the risk of several types of cancer, including breast, colorectal, and liver cancer.
If you do choose to drink alcohol, limit yourself to one drink per day if you’re a woman, or two drinks per day if you’re a man.
Red and Processed Meats
Red meats like beef, lamb, and pork have been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including colon, rectal, and prostate cancer. Processed meats like bacon, sausage, and deli meats have been linked to an even higher risk of cancer.
Try to limit your consumption of red and processed meats as much as possible.
Charred/Fried Foods
Foods that are charred or fried at high temperatures can contain cancer-causing compounds like acrylamide and HCAs. Try cooking your food at lower temperatures and avoid blackened or charred areas.
Artificial Sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners like aspartame, saccharin, and sucralose have been linked to an increased risk of cancer.
While more research is needed to determine the extent of this risk, it’s a good idea to limit your consumption of artificial sweeteners as much as possible. If you need to sweeten your food or drinks, try using natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
Salt
High levels of salt consumption have been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer, including stomach and esophageal cancer. Try to limit your salt intake and avoid adding salt to your food.
Check the labels on packaged foods and choose lower-sodium options whenever possible.
GMOs
Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) have been linked to an increased risk of cancer. While the research is still inconclusive, it’s a good idea to avoid GMOs as much as possible.
Choose organic produce and avoid processed foods that contain genetically modified ingredients.
Pesticides
Pesticides have been linked to an increased risk of cancer, especially in farmers and farm workers who are exposed to high levels of pesticides. Try to limit your exposure to pesticides as much as possible.
Choose organic produce and wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating them.
BPA
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical found in many plastic products, including food containers and water bottles. BPA has been linked to an increased risk of cancer, as well as other health problems.
Try to limit your exposure to BPA by avoiding plastic containers and choosing glass or stainless steel containers instead.