Cancer is a disease caused by uncontrolled cell growth. The body has mechanisms to prevent cells from growing out of control. However, some things can disrupt those mechanisms and allow cells to divide uncontrollably. Certain foods increase the risk of developing cancer.
Before we explore the crucial topic of foods potentially linked to cancer, it’s important to discuss the advancements in cancer treatment and the role of healthcare coverage. Understanding these can provide peace of mind and a well-rounded approach to cancer prevention and care.
The landscape of cancer treatment has seen remarkable advancements. Pharmaceuticals like immunotherapy drugs, which boost the body's immune system to fight cancer, and targeted therapies, which focus on specific genetic changes in cancer cells, are at the forefront of modern oncology. For example, drugs like pembrolizumab (Keytruda) and trastuzumab (Herceptin) have revolutionized treatment for certain types of cancer.
In addition to these innovative treatments, traditional therapies such as chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery continue to play a vital role. These treatments are often used in combination, tailored to the type and stage of cancer, and the patient’s overall health.
Navigating the financial aspect of cancer treatment is crucial. Medicare, the federal health insurance program, and Medicare Advantage plans provide significant coverage for cancer treatment, including many of the aforementioned therapies. Understanding the specifics of these plans, including what is covered under Part A (hospital insurance), Part B (medical insurance), and Part D (prescription drug coverage), is important for anyone at risk or diagnosed with cancer.
Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans, offered by private companies approved by Medicare, often provide additional benefits, such as prescription drug coverage, that are crucial for cancer patients. These plans may also offer extra services like transportation to chemotherapy sessions or access to specialized cancer care networks.
Armed with this knowledge about cancer treatments and the importance of comprehensive healthcare coverage, it’s also essential to focus on prevention. Part of this preventive approach includes being aware of dietary choices. The following section on “10 Cancer Causing Foods That You Should Avoid” is intended to guide you in making informed decisions about your diet, which is a key component of cancer prevention.
These foods include red meat, processed meats, fried food, and alcohol. These foods contain high levels of carcinogens or toxins that can damage DNA and cause cancer. Discussed below are 9 cancer-causing foods that you should avoid.
Processed meats (particularly bacon) have been linked to an increased risk for colon cancer. One study found that eating more than 20 grams per day of cured pork products doubled your chances of getting this type of cancer.
Fried foods are loaded with saturated fats that make them very hard on the digestive tract. This includes French fries, doughnuts, pizza crusts, and other baked goods. When digested, saturated fat has been shown to raise LDL cholesterol or “bad” cholesterol. Saturated fats also interfere with insulin signaling, resulting in higher blood sugar and promoting weight gain.
Green vegetables such as broccoli and spinach are great sources of fiber. They are low in calories and rich in vitamin K, A, C, E, B6, folate, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium. But do not think that they are free of chemicals. Chemicals called nitrosamines, when ingested, can be converted into nitrates and nitrites. Nitrite can combine with protein-rich foods to form carcinogenic compounds known as heterocyclic amines. It has been suggested that heterocyclic amine levels rise after consuming green leafy vegetables. Studies have also shown that dietary nitrates and nitrites increase the risk of stomach tumors. So, cutting down on them may help reduce cancer risk.
Red meat contains large amounts of saturated animal fats and selenium. One study reported that consumption of 50 grams or more of cooked beef per week was associated with a 15% increased risk of colon cancer. And 50 grams of hamper week was associated with a 30 percent increased risk of colon cancers.
Drinking too many soft drinks may increase the risk of colon cancer. Soda and sweetened beverages have been the focus of attention because of their high fructose corn syrup content. The link between excessive intake of fructose and increased risk of cancer is still unclear. But studies have indicated that drinking any amount of soda may put you at greater risk of obesity, diabetes mellitus, heart diseases, liver cirrhosis, and colorectal cancer.
Coffee contains caffeine which stimulates the adrenal glands. Too much caffeine can lead to insomnia, nausea, headaches, and anxiety. Over time it can cause serious problems like high blood pressure, stroke, and even death. According to research performed in 2014, coffee drinkers were almost twice more likely to develop Parkinson’s disease.
Salt is a source of sodium, which has been strongly connected to developing chronic diseases such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and coronary artery disease. There is also some evidence that salt contributes to bladder cancer formation. People who consume more than five grams of sodium daily have been shown to have an increased risk of prostate cancer.
Sugar has its benefits, but there is no need to eliminate it from your diet. Cut back to less than 10 teaspoons a day. Consuming too much sugar makes you store more belly fat and puts you at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. It can also contribute to tooth decay and harm cell membranes.
Alcohol is a known carcinogen. Ingesting alcohol increases the chances of developing mouth and throat cancer. Beer and hard liquor are the most common forms of alcohol people consume. Drinking several alcoholic beverages a day increases the risk of breast cancer. A 2005 study showed that women who drink three glasses of wine each day had significantly lower odds of getting breast cancer. While another study conducted in 2015 concluded that light-to-moderate drinking might reduce the risk of pancreatic cancer. At least moderate consumption of red wine seems to protect against the disease. Other than this, alcohol reduces immunity causing us to become vulnerable to infections. Women who smoke while pregnant suffer from higher mental disorders like schizophrenia and depression.
You should avoid the foods mentioned above if you want to stay away from diseases and maintain good health. However, remember that not all these food items are perfect for everyone. Some people can eat them without negative effects on their health. Therefore, try different combinations until you find out what works best for you.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.