Bowel cancer is one of the leading causes of death in men. According to studies, the risk of developing bowel cancer increases with age, with most men diagnosed with the disease around 70 years of age.

While there are several factors that can increase the risk of bowel cancer, diet plays a significant role. Here are the top 30 foods that increase the risk of bowel cancer in men:.

1. Red and Processed Meats

Red meat and processed meats like sausages, bacon, and salami contain high levels of saturated fat, which can lead to the development of bowel cancer.

Studies have shown that consuming more than 500 grams of red meat per week can increase the risk of bowel cancer.

2. Alcohol

Regular and excessive alcohol intake can damage the lining of the bowel, increasing the risk of cancer. It is recommended that men consume no more than 14 units of alcohol per week.

3. High-Fat Foods

High-fat foods like cheese, butter, and fried foods can raise the risk of bowel cancer. A diet high in fat can also lead to obesity, which is another major risk factor for bowel cancer.

4. Refined Carbohydrates

Refined carbohydrates like white bread, pasta, and rice have little to no nutritional value and can increase the risk of bowel cancer. These foods can also lead to weight gain and obesity, which can further increase the risk of developing cancer.

5. Sugar

Excessive sugar intake can lead to weight gain and obesity, which are linked to bowel cancer. It is important to limit the consumption of sugary foods and drinks.

6. Fried Foods

Fried foods like French fries, fried chicken, and onion rings are high in fat and calories. They can raise the risk of bowel cancer, especially when consumed regularly.

7. Processed Foods

Processed foods like chips, snacks, and fast food can contain high amounts of salt and sugar. Consuming these foods regularly can increase the risk of bowel cancer.

8. Cured Meats

Cured meats like ham, bacon, and salami contain nitrites and nitrates, which can damage the lining of the bowel and lead to the development of cancer.

9. Charred Meat

Grilling, frying, or barbecuing meat can create carcinogens that can increase the risk of bowel cancer. To reduce the risk, it is recommended to cook meat at lower temperatures and for shorter periods of time.

10. Dairy Products

Dairy products like milk, cheese, and butter contain high levels of saturated fat, which can increase the risk of bowel cancer. It is recommended to choose low-fat dairy products.

11. Shellfish

Shellfish like shrimp and crab can contain high levels of heavy metals like mercury, which can increase the risk of bowel cancer and other health problems.

12. Sodas and Soft Drinks

Sodas and soft drinks are high in sugar and calories, which can lead to weight gain and obesity. These two conditions are linked to the development of bowel cancer.

13. Vegetable Oils

Vegetable oils like soybean, corn, and sunflower oil can contain high levels of omega-6 fatty acids, which are linked to inflammation and bowel cancer. It is recommended to use healthier alternatives like olive oil or coconut oil.

14. Caffeine

Excessive caffeine intake can irritate the bowel lining, increasing the risk of bowel cancer. It is recommended to limit caffeine intake to two cups of coffee per day.

15. Processed Snacks

Processed snacks like crackers, chips, and pretzels can contain high amounts of salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats. Regular consumption of these foods can increase the risk of bowel cancer.

16. Charred Food

Grilling, frying, or barbecuing food can create carcinogens that can increase the risk of bowel cancer.

17. Ice Cream

Ice cream is high in sugar and fat, which can lead to weight gain and obesity. These conditions are linked to the development of bowel cancer.

18. Preserved Vegetables

Preserved vegetables like pickles and sauerkraut can contain high levels of salt and preservatives, which can damage the bowel lining and increase the risk of cancer.

19. Refined Grains

Refined grains like white bread and pasta can raise the risk of bowel cancer. It is recommended to choose whole grain options.

20. Baked Goods

Baked goods like pies, cakes, and cookies are high in sugar and unhealthy fats. They can lead to weight gain and obesity, which are linked to bowel cancer.

21. Soy

Soy products like tofu and soy milk contain compounds that can disrupt hormones and increase the risk of bowel cancer in men.

22. Hydrogenated Oils

Hydrogenated oils like margarine and vegetable shortening can contain trans fats, which can increase inflammation and the risk of bowel cancer.

23. Energy Drinks

Energy drinks are high in caffeine and sugar, which can lead to weight gain and obesity. These conditions are linked to the development of bowel cancer.

24. Non-Organic Foods

Non-organic foods may contain pesticides and other chemicals that can damage the bowel lining and increase the risk of cancer.

25. Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners like aspartame and sucralose can disrupt hormone balance and increase the risk of bowel cancer in men.

26. High-Salt Foods

High-salt foods like processed meats, snacks, and canned goods can increase the risk of bowel cancer. It is recommended to limit salt intake to less than 5 grams per day.

27. Alcohol Mixers

Alcohol mixers like tonic water and soda can contain high levels of sugar and empty calories, which can lead to weight gain and obesity. These conditions are linked to the development of bowel cancer.

28. Processed Cheese

Processed cheese like American and Velveeta can contain high levels of salt, unhealthy fats, and additives that can increase the risk of bowel cancer.

29. Conventional Milk

Conventional milk may contain hormones and other chemicals that can disrupt hormone balance and increase the risk of bowel cancer in men.

30. Low-Fiber Foods

Low-fiber foods like white bread, pasta, and rice can increase the risk of bowel cancer. It is recommended to choose high-fiber options like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.