Good Lifestyle

Understanding risk factors related to the emergence of cancer is not one of the most pleasant tasks, especially when these factors are related to our diet.

However, with the high number of people suffering from this disease year after year, we need to be increasingly aware of the food we consume and the daily habits we have.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), in 2018 cancer was the second largest cause of death worldwide, and according to experts, the increase in the number of people affected by the disease is related to the life habits of today's society, including food. Thus, in this article we will talk about some foods that according to WHO are related to cancer, and whose consumption should be reduced or avoided by the population

Processed and smoked meats

Processed and/or smoked meats usually contain nitrite and nitrates, as well as high fat levels. Because of this, WHO recommends avoiding frequent consumption of foods such as bacon, ham, sausage, sausage, mortadella, salami, turkey breast, among others. This is because these foods raise the risk of the emergence of some diseases, such as rectum, lung and breast cancer.

Drinks and foods with added sugar

Consumption of beverages and foods with high doses of sugar added or artificial sweeteners, such as soda and stuffed cookies, are also related to cancer. These types of foods tend to lead to weight gain and consequently obesity, which is one of the risk factors for the development of the disease.

One of the most recent examples was Aspartame, one of the most commonly used sweeteners on the planet, which was classified by WHO in 2023 as possibly carcinogenic. The suggestion is that the product will be replaced by healthier alternatives, such as honey, xylitol, agave syrup and fruits that are naturally sweet.

Alcohol

For decades the harm of alcohol consumption for human health has been discussed. According to some experts, the substance raises the risk of stomach, liver, pancreas, esophagus and colorectal cancer due to damage to the tissues of these organs caused by high alcohol consumption. Because of this, those who like to consume some alcohol should do this in moderation.

Canned

The consumption of canned foods is discouraged by WHO due to the packaging of these foods. In general, canned packaging are covered by bisphenol A, better known as BPA, a compound that when contacting food and being consumed increases the risk of DNA changes, hormonal imbalances and cancer.

Fried foods

Fried foods, besides containing high doses of fat, are also responsible for raising oxidative stress in the body, favoring the occurrence of inflammation, which as a consequence, raises the risks of cancer cell multiplication.

How to have a better diet?

As important as avoiding excessive consumption of foods that increase the risk of cancer development, it is to opt for healthy habits that improve the functioning of your body.

Thus, according to experts, to have a healthy diet, it is important to consume fruits and vegetables in much of their daily meals. Prioritize the diversification of these foods and run away from a monotonous diet, so seek to assemble a colorful, varied dish.

Regarding animal proteins, red meat should be in the background, and the consumer should prioritize fish, poultry and seafood. As for plant proteins, beans, peas and lentils are excellent alternatives.

Consumer should also always opt for fiber -rich foods, such as whole grains, fruits and fresh vegetables. Nuts and seeds are important sources of good quality fatty acids, such as omega-3, which is a powerful antioxidant.