Eric Bakker N.D.May 13, 2022

In order for a food or beverage to be labelled as a carcinogen, there must be conclusive proof connecting its consumption to an elevated risk of cancer as well as showing how cancer may arise as a result of its use

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5 Foods That May Cause Cancer

Here is a list and by no means a definitive list of foods and beverages that are linked with cancer through research. You don’t necessarily have to avoid all of these, just be aware and consume accordingly. In moderation and as part of a balanced healthy diet.

1. Alcohol

  • Along with tobacco, alcohol is one of the very few substances that has been conclusively proven to raise the chance of developing cancer. It does not really make a difference what kind of alcohol you drink.
    Consuming alcohol is associated with an increased risk of having cancer of the mouth, throat, and voice box. Additionally, drinking alcohol is associated with an increased risk of developing breast cancer, liver cancer, and colon cancer. The likelihood of a person acquiring one of these malignancies increases in direct proportion to the quantity and duration of alcohol consumption over time. Alcohol is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen, meaning it is strongly linked.

2. Animal Proteins

When it comes to foods that contain animal protein, the greatest cause for concern in terms of the development of cancer is red and processed meats. Pork, beef, veal, and lamb are all examples of different types of red meat. Bacon, ham, lunch meats, meat jerky, salami, and other cured meat products are examples of processed meats. Other processed meats include hot dogs and salami. A larger consumption of processed meat in any amount and of fresh meat in excess of approximately 18 ounces (500 grams) per week is more closely connected with an increased risk of cancer than those eat a lot less or who abstain.


3. Salted Fish (Asian style)

  • The preservation of food, particularly fish, through the application of salt is a time-honoured tradition that is still widely practised in China and South-East Asia. Unfortunately, this method of preservation results in the formation of by-products that are carcinogenic, which means that it has the potential to cause cancer in humans. Similar to processed meat, Chinese-style salted fish is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen.

4. Soda Drinks

  • Being obese is a major risk factor for a number of different cancers, it is therefore essential to keep a healthy weight in your quest to avoid cancer. This can be accomplished by following a diet that is healthy and balanced, and takes into account all of the different food groups, especially fruits and vegetables. Sugary drinks can cause weight gain and obesity if they are eaten on a consistent basis and in large enough quantities. Research has shown that being obese puts you in a much higher risk of developing a cancer than maintaining a normal weight.

5. Take Away or Processed Foods

  • Having a greater amount of body fat increases the risk of developing a variety of malignancies. It is recommended by the World Cancer Research Fund to limit consumption of ‘fast foods’ and other processed foods that are rich in fat, carbohydrates, or sugars. Doing so assists in the control of calorie consumption and the maintenance of a healthy weight.Sushi, salads, and sandwiches made from scratch on bread baked with whole grains are some much healthier options.
    Removing or reducing the amount of carcinogenic foods in your diet can help minimise the risk of cancer. Additionally, doing so can help you maintain a healthy weight, enhance your focus, and contribute to an overall improvement in your well-being.


Your Diet And Lifestyle Can Cause Cancer

Almost one in three cancers could be prevented through healthier eating, a major international conference heard this week.
The European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) is one of one of the world’s largest studies investigating the relationship between the disease and what people eat. The study has confirmed many previous studies showing that some food can increase the risks of cancer while others can have a protective effect on the human body.
However, it has also provided some new ideas and raised doubts about previously long-held theories.
The study, which is looking at the diets of more than 500,000 people from nine European countries, has confirmed once again that eating fruit and vegetables can ward off the disease, in particular colon and rectal cancer.
However, curiously the study found no evidence to suggest they can ward off cancers of the stomach and lungs.
The preliminary results have also raised questions about the long-held belief that eating red meat can increase the risk of cancer.
For years many have been fearful that red meat, particularly beef, lamb and pork, could increase the risk of colorectal cancer. The study looked very closely at this issue and the results don’t support that.
The study is looking into the different types of meat and why processed meat may be a greater risk than fresh meat and to see what is in processed meat that may increase the risks.
The study found that excessive smoking and drinking combined can increase cancer risks by 50 times. No surprise here.
One researcher acknowledged that the findings could prove confusing for patients who want to change their diet to protect against cancer.
The study, which is ongoing, is not due to finish until at least 2003. But the research team is planning to publish a scientific paper examining the links between cancer and food in 2002.

Reference:  European Conference on Nutrition and Cancer in Lyon, France June 22, 2001

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