Nutrition

30 common carcinogenic foods you may be eating

Learn about the 30 common carcinogenic foods that you may be eating every day. Find out how processed meats, deep-fried foods, alcohol, and more increase your risk of cancer by margotmills
Estimated reading time: 5 min 5 sec
30 common carcinogenic foods you may be eating Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko on Pexels

It’s no secret that the food we eat plays a significant role in our health. But did you know that some foods can actually increase your risk of cancer? Here are 30 common carcinogenic foods you may be eating:.

Processed Meats

Processed meats such as hot dogs, bacon, sausage, and deli meats have been linked to an increased risk of colorectal and stomach cancer. This is due to the nitrites used to preserve and color the meats which can form carcinogenic compounds in the body.

Grilled or Charred Meats

Cooking meats at high temperatures can create carcinogenic compounds such as heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).

These compounds are formed when meat is cooked at high temperatures and can increase the risk of colorectal, prostate, and pancreatic cancer.

Deep-Fried Foods

Foods that are deep-fried contain acrylamide, which is a carcinogenic compound formed when starchy foods are heated to high temperatures. This includes fried chicken, donuts, French fries, and potato chips.

Canned Foods

Canned foods often contain a chemical called bisphenol A (BPA), which has been linked to an increased risk of breast and prostate cancer. BPA can leach into food from the lining of the can.

Refined Sugar

Consuming too much refined sugar has been linked to an increased risk of colorectal, breast, and pancreatic cancer. Sugar can also contribute to obesity, which is a risk factor for many types of cancer.

Soda and Sweetened Beverages

Soda and other sweetened beverages contain high levels of sugar and artificial sweeteners, which can increase the risk of colorectal, pancreatic, and ovarian cancer.

Alcohol

Drinking alcohol has been linked to an increased risk of breast, liver, colorectal, and oral cancer. The risk increases with the amount of alcohol consumed.

White Flour

White flour has been stripped of its natural nutrients and fiber, leaving only the starchy part of the grain. This can contribute to high blood sugar levels, which has been linked to an increased risk of colorectal and breast cancer.

Artificial Sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners such as aspartame and saccharin have been linked to an increased risk of bladder and brain cancer. They are commonly found in diet soda, sugar-free gum, and other products marketed as low calorie.

Trans Fats

Trans fats are a type of fat that is commonly found in processed foods such as baked goods, fried foods, and margarine. They have been associated with an increased risk of heart disease and cancer.

Red Meat

Consuming red meat has been linked to an increased risk of colorectal, pancreatic, and prostate cancer. Experts recommend limiting red meat consumption to no more than 18 ounces per week.

Non-Organic Produce

Non-organic produce is often sprayed with pesticides and herbicides, many of which have been linked to an increased risk of cancer. Opt for organic produce whenever possible to reduce your exposure to these chemicals.

Salami and Other Smoked Meats

Smoked meats such as salami, pepperoni, and pastrami contain nitrites and nitrates, which can form carcinogenic compounds in the body. They have been linked to an increased risk of colorectal, stomach, and pancreatic cancer.

Bagels, Bread, and Other Baked Goods

White flour is often used in bagels, bread, and other baked goods. This can contribute to high blood sugar levels, which has been linked to an increased risk of colorectal and breast cancer.

Related Article A list of cancer-causing foods you consume regularly A list of cancer-causing foods you consume regularly

Hydrogenated Oils

Hydrogenated oils are a type of fat that is solid at room temperature. They are commonly found in margarine and processed foods, and have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and cancer.

Soy Products

Soy products such as soy milk, soy burgers, and tofu contain phytoestrogens, which are chemicals that mimic estrogen in the body. This can increase the risk of breast cancer in women who have estrogen-receptor positive tumors.

Potato Chips

Potato chips and other fried snack foods contain acrylamide, which is a carcinogenic compound formed when starchy foods are heated to high temperatures.

Cookies and Cake

Cookies and cake often contain white flour, refined sugar, and trans fats, all of which have been linked to an increased risk of cancer.

Pesticides in Produce

Produce that is not organic may be sprayed with pesticides and herbicides, many of which have been linked to an increased risk of cancer. Be sure to wash all produce thoroughly before eating.

Canned Fruits

Canned fruits often contain high levels of sugar and preservatives, which have been linked to an increased risk of cancer. Opt for fresh or frozen fruits whenever possible.

Candy

Candy often contains high levels of sugar, artificial colors, and preservatives, which have been linked to an increased risk of cancer.

Refined Grains

Refined grains such as white rice and white bread have been stripped of their natural nutrients and fiber, leaving only the starchy part of the grain.

This can contribute to high blood sugar levels, which has been linked to an increased risk of colorectal and breast cancer.

Shrimp and Shellfish

Shrimp and other shellfish may contain high levels of cholesterol and heavy metals such as mercury, which have been linked to an increased risk of cancer.

Dairy Products

Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt contain hormones and growth factors that have been associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer.

Highly Processed Foods

Highly processed foods such as frozen dinners, chips, and snack cakes have been linked to an increased risk of cancer. These foods often contain artificial colors, preservatives, and other additives.

Baked Goods Made with White Flour and Sugar

Baked goods made with white flour and sugar include cookies, cake, and other treats. These foods have been linked to an increased risk of cancer.

Processed Cheese

Processed cheese often contains high levels of salt, preservatives, and artificial colors, which have been linked to an increased risk of cancer.

Cured Meats

Cured meats such as salami and ham often contain higher levels of salt, preservatives, and nitrites, which have been linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer.

Sugar-sweetened Drinks

Sugar-sweetened drinks such as soda, sweetened tea, and sports drinks often contain high levels of sugar, which can contribute to weight gain and an increased risk of cancer.

Disclaimer: This article serves as general information and should not be considered medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance. Individual circumstances may vary.

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