Decrease cancer risk by avoiding these 5 foods

Many factors are linked to our chances of getting a disease like cancer. Genetics, eating habits, exercise and tobacco use are all risk factors. But are there foods that we should avoid to help deter this devastating disease?

Dietitian, Shayna Komar, of Thomas F. Chapman Family Cancer Wellness at Piedmont, shares tips for avoiding foods linked to cancer:

1. Processed foods - Food processing may alter foods in ways that affect cancer risk. An example is the refining of grains, which reduces fiber and other nutrients that may help protect against cancer. Processing meat with preservatives like salt or sodium nitrite, or by smoking, can add compounds that may increase cancer risk.

2. Sugary foods - Sugar feeds every cell in our body, even cancer cells. Research shows sugar doesn’t cause cancer, but excess weight can raise cancer and diabetes risk. High-sugar diets also increase inflammation in your body, and chronic inflammation is fuel for many diseases, including cancer.

3. High-fat foods - Animal-fat-rich foods, including butter, whole milk, and red meat, contain saturated fats. Fats are important, but choosing unsaturated fats can support better long-term health. Some studies have linked various cancers to a high-fat diet, especially diets that include red meat and full-fat dairy products.

4. Fried foods - High-carbohydrate foods prepared at elevated temperatures may contain a cancer-causing chemical called acrylamide. Research links excessive acrylamide consumption to nervous system problems and increased cancer risk. Plus, fried foods have substantially more calories and fat than baked foods.

5. Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) - Although there is no conclusive evidence, GMOs have been linked to cancer. Some animal studies suggest risks including cancer, infertility, immune dysfunction, accelerated aging, and digestive system changes. 

Need to make an appointment with a Piedmont physician? Save time, book online.