The American Institute for Cancer states on their website, “Research has shown that most cancers can be prevented. Scientists now estimate that 60 percent to 70 percent of cancers are all preventable through currently available information and simple changes in diet and lifestyle.”
With that encouraging statement in mind, this article addresses changes you can make in your day to day dietary lifestyle that will not only improve your health but help provide you with knowledge of some possibly carcinogenic foods to avoid to aid in your efforts of cancer prevention.
Potentially Carcinogenic Foods to Avoid
- BPA Lined Cans
This ingredient found in hard plastics and resins is used to coat metal cans. Laboratory studies in cells and animals have linked BPA to cancer, infertility, diabetes, and obesity. Unless a canned item is labeled BPA free, it’s likely to contain bisphenol-A (BPA). BPA can also be found in numerous plastic products and dental composites. - Cured and Smoked Foods
Nitrates and nitrites act as preservatives to prevent food from spoiling, they also add color to meats. When cooked, nitrites and nitrates change into by-products called N-nitroso compounds, such as nitrosamines and nitrosamides, which are associated with an increased risk of cancer. - Farmed Fish
Farmed fish contain higher levels of chemical pollutants than wild fish, including PCB’s, a known carcinogen. Due to overcrowding in fish farms, fish are more susceptible to disease, increasing the need to use antibiotics. - Grilled Meat
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are produced through certain types of combustion, which can increase your risk for carcinogenic exposure when fat from meat drips onto a fire. - Hydrogenated Oils
These oils, also known as trans-fats, have been linked to heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, among other chronic diseases. - Microwave Popcorn
These bags are lined with chemicals that leach into the popcorn when heated, potentially increasing your risk for tumors and cancer. - Non-Organic Fruits & Vegetables
Conventionally grown crops are grown with pesticides, herbicides, and GMO seeds, which have been associated with an increased risk of cancer. - Processed Foods
Cured meats tend to be high in nitrites and nitrates, preservatives that can potentially increase your risk of stomach and other cancers. Processed foods are also typically full of unhealthy ingredients. - Refined Sugars
Sugar has been linked to numerous health issues, including an increased risk for heart disease, obesity, and cancer. - Soda/Sports Drinks
These drinks contain ingredients that have been linked to an increased risk of cancer and other health issues.
