Eating a healthy diet is important for overall health, but it can also impact your risk of developing certain diseases, including cancer. One area that has received a lot of attention in recent years is the role of sugar and carbs in cancer risk.

Here’s what you need to know:.

What Are Sugar and Carbs?

Sugar is a type of carbohydrate that is found naturally in fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. It is also added to many processed foods, such as candy, soda, and baked goods.

Carbohydrates, or “carbs” for short, are a macronutrient found in many foods, including grains, fruits, and vegetables.

How Do Sugar and Carbs Affect the Body?

When we eat sugar and carbs, our body breaks them down into glucose, which is used for energy. However, eating too much sugar and carbs can lead to health problems, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

These conditions have all been linked to an increased risk of cancer.

Does Sugar Cause Cancer?

While there is no direct link between sugar and cancer, there is some evidence to suggest that a high-sugar diet may increase the risk of certain cancers.

One study found that women who consumed a diet high in sugar-sweetened beverages had an increased risk of endometrial cancer. Another study found that mice fed a diet high in sugar were more likely to develop breast cancer.

However, it’s important to note that these studies are preliminary and more research is needed to fully understand the link between sugar and cancer.

Do Carbs Cause Cancer?

Like sugar, there is no direct link between carbs and cancer. However, some studies have suggested that a diet high in carbs, particularly refined carbs like white bread and pasta, may increase the risk of certain cancers.

One study found that women who consumed a diet high in refined carbs had an increased risk of breast cancer. Another study found that men who ate a diet high in carbs had an increased risk of prostate cancer.

Again, more research is needed to fully understand the link between carbs and cancer.

What Foods Should You Eat to Reduce Your Risk of Cancer?

While the link between sugar, carbs, and cancer is still being studied, there are certain foods that have been shown to reduce the risk of cancer. These include:.

Fruits and vegetables: These are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can help protect against cancer.
Whole grains: These are a good source of fiber and other nutrients that can help reduce the risk of cancer.
Lean protein: This can come from sources like fish, poultry, and beans, which can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of cancer.
Healthy fats: These can come from foods like nuts, seeds, and olive oil, which can help reduce inflammation and protect against cancer.

In addition to eating a healthy diet, it’s important to maintain a healthy weight, exercise regularly, and avoid tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption to reduce your risk of cancer.

Conclusion

The link between sugar, carbs, and cancer is still being studied, but there is some evidence to suggest that a high-sugar or high-carb diet may increase the risk of certain cancers.

Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can help reduce your risk of cancer and other chronic diseases.