Good Lifestyle

Cancer is a complex condition, with multiple causes and triggers. Although some aspects are still unknown, it is clear that various factors influence the occurrence and evolution of this disease.

One of the most influential elements of lifestyle is nutrition. A vast series of studies shows that certain types of food can increase the risk of developing different forms of cancer.

What foods increase the risk of cancer

There are foods that can increase cancer susceptibility. These can also emphasize the risk of type 2 diabetes and obesity, both being associated with certain types of cancer. Moreover, some foods contain carcinogens, substances that can trigger cancer.

However, it is vital to understand that the presence of carcinogens does not automatically lead to cancer development. Individual genetic factors, as well as the level and duration of exposure to carcinogenic substances, play an essential role.

Let's see what foods are considered to be related to an increased risk of cancer, according to research.

Processed meat

The processed meat includes the meat that has been preserved by smoking, salting, adding preservatives or putting in canned. This type of meat is often classified as red meat. Examples of processed red meat are:

• Hot dogs
• salami
• Sausages
• Ham
• Steak of marinated beef
• Jerky beef

Ultra-processive drinks

Ultra-processive foods and drinks are indirectly associated with an increased risk of cancer due to the high sugar and sodium content, which can lead to weight and obesity.

The consumption of these ultra-processive products, with high caloric content, but poor in nutrients, can accentuate the risk of cancer by favoring fat accumulation. Obesity, in turn, can increase the susceptibility to various forms of cancer.

Dairy products

There are studies that link the consumption of dairy products to an increased risk of prostate cancer. Dairy products include:

• Milk
• Cheese
• Yogurt

A 2020 study suggests that dairy increases the level of growth factor similar to insulin 1 (IGF-1), associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer. IGF-1 can stimulate the proliferation of cancer cells of prostate.

alcohol

Alcohol turns into the liver into acetaldehyde, a known carcinogen.

A 2017 study shows that acetaldehyde can cause DNA damage and oxidative stress, while affecting the immune function and preventing the body from fighting against precancerous and cancer cells.

Moreover, research in 2015 indicates that alcohol can increase estrogen levels in women, thus increasing the risk of positive breast cancer for estrogen receptors.