Is cancer mostly caused by eating? Reminder: Eating 5 foods is either "feeding" cancer cells
Since her retirement, Aunt Zhang's biggest pleasure every day is to cook all kinds of delicacies for her family, and the pickled side dishes and fried snacks she makes are especially popular with the children.
But recently, Aunt Zhang always feels sick to her stomach, and she has no appetite for eating.
Daughter Xiaofang found out about Aunt Zhang's abnormality and quickly took her to the hospital, and after examination, the doctor told them that Aunt Zhang had early stomach cancer.
Aunt Zhang and Xiaofang were stunned for a moment, how could it be? How could Aunt Zhang, who has always been healthy, have anything to do with the word "cancer".
The doctor inquired in detail about Aunt Zhang's eating habits, then sighed and said, "A lot of cancer is actually 'eaten'. ”
Aunt Zhang's heart sank suddenly, and she began to wonder: Could it be that there is something wrong with her eating habits?
With the improvement of living standards, our dietary choices are becoming more and more abundant, however, some bad eating habits have quietly become the "invisible killers" of health.
So, is all cancer "eaten"? What foods might be quietly "feeding" cancer cells?
01
Scientific studies have consistently pointed out that there is a non-negligible link between food and cancer.
It is estimated that about 50% of cancer cases worldwide are associated with poor dietary habits, especially in high-income countries, where such diets are common due to the widespread availability of foods high in fat, sugar and salt.
For example, overly processed foods often contain high amounts of preservatives, colorings, and other chemical additives, and the accumulation of these ingredients in the body may have long-term health effects.
Of course, the occurrence of cancer is not accidental, but the result of a combination of factors.
Poor diet, such as regular consumption of high-calorie, high-fat and low-fiber foods, can lead to changes in the body's internal environment and increase the risk of cancer.
Not only do these foods provide excess energy, but they can also lead to obesity, which has been identified as an independent risk factor for several types of cancer.
In addition, the consumption of high amounts of red meat and processed meats (e.g., sausages, bacon) has been scientifically proven to be associated with a significantly increased risk of colorectal cancer.
This is because these foods are usually high in iron and other compounds that may promote the growth of cancer cells in the body.
In addition, preservatives (such as nitrites) often used in the processing of such foods may be converted into carcinogenic nitrosamines in the human body.
02
1. Moldy and spoiled food
Mould food produces aflatoxin, a known strong carcinogen that is extremely toxic to the liver.
Long-term or excessive consumption of these foods, especially unknowingly, can greatly increase the risk of liver cancer.
We should strictly avoid eating any moldy food and ensure that the food is stored in a clean and dry environment to prevent food from spoiling.
2. Pickled foods
Salts and preservatives, such as nitrites, are often added to preserved foods during the preparation process, which can be converted into nitrosamines, which are strong carcinogens in the body.
Long-term consumption of these preserved foods has been shown to be associated with an increased risk of stomach and esophageal cancer.
3. Barbecue food
The high temperature during the grilling process breaks down the proteins and fats in the meat, producing carcinogens such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and heterocyclic amines.
These substances in the body can cause DNA mutations that increase the risk of cancer.
You should try to minimize the consumption of food grilled at high temperatures, especially those that have not been properly protected.
4. Processed meat
Processed meats include sausages, hams, etc., which often have a lot of preservatives, colorings, and monosodium glutamate added during processing.
Nitrite is one of the most common additives, and this substance may also be converted into nitrosamines in the body, increasing the risk of cancer.
Long-term consumption of processed meat has been linked to an increased risk of several cancers, especially colorectal cancer.
5. Fried food
During high-temperature frying, certain components of food may break down to form acrylamide and other carcinogens.
Fried foods, such as fried chicken and french fries, are not only high in fat and salt, but may also contain a lot of carcinogens, and long-term consumption of large amounts can increase the risk of many cancers, and is also linked to health problems such as cardiovascular disease and obesity.
03
1. Choose a healthy cooking method
Choosing healthy cooking methods such as steaming, boiling, and grilling is more recommended than grilling and frying, as they minimize the production of carcinogens in food while retaining more nutrients.
2. Pay attention to the selection and use of cooking oil
Use healthy oils and fats, such as olive oil or other vegetable oils, and avoid oils and fats that are high in trans fatty acids, such as partially hydrogenated vegetable oils.
Try to use low- or oil-free methods when cooking, such as boiling, steaming, or using an air fryer.
3. Drink alcohol in moderation
If you choose to drink alcohol, you should limit the amount of alcohol. Excessive alcohol consumption is known to be associated with several cancer types, including oral cancer, throat cancer, liver cancer, and more.
It is recommended that no more than two servings of alcoholic beverages per day are made for men and no more than one serving per day for women.
The impact of eating habits on health is crucial, so let's start now, pay attention to our diet, cherish our health, and stay away from cancer.