This archive report was first published on 5 November 2019.
Foods Linked to Cancer: What You Need to Know ¶
According to studies, a diet high in processed sugars, refined carbs, and processed meat can increase the risk of cancer. On the other hand, a healthy diet can help prevent cancer by building the body's immune system and reducing the risk of infections and diseases.
Here are some foods that have been linked to an increased risk of cancer:
1. Foods High in Sugar and Refined Carbs ¶
Consuming high amounts of sugar and refined carbs can increase the risk of cancer, including breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and stomach cancer. This is because insulin tends to stimulate cell division, which supports the growth and spread of cancer cells.
Adults who consume diets high in refined carbs are twice as likely to die from colorectal cancer compared to those who eat a diet low in refined carbs.
2. Processed Meat ¶
Processed meat, such as ham, bacon, and hot dogs, has been linked to an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Studies have found that people who eat large amounts of processed meat have a 20 to 50 percent increased risk of getting colorectal cancer.
Even consuming small amounts of processed meat, such as 50 grams per day, can increase the risk of colorectal cancer by about 18 percent.
3. Overcooked Food ¶
When certain foods are cooked at high temperatures, such as frying, grilling, sautéing, and barbequing, harmful compounds like heterocyclic amines and advanced glycation end products are produced. These compounds can contribute to inflammation and play a major role in the development of cancer.
Foods like animal products that are high in fat and proteins and processed foods are likely to produce these harmful compounds when exposed to high temperatures.
4. High Intake of Dairy Products ¶
High consumption of dairy products has been linked to an increased risk of prostate cancer. A study found that high consumption of whole milk increased the risk of the disease progressing and death.
It is believed that the findings in relation to dairy products being a risk factor in causing cancer are due to high intake levels of calcium, insulin-like growth factor 1, and oestrogen hormones from pregnant cows.
