This article explores everyday dietary changes that can not only boost your overall health but also help you steer clear of certain foods linked to cancer risk. By making informed choices about what you eat, you can reduce exposure to potential carcinogens as part of a proactive cancer prevention strategy.
1. BPA-Lined Cans
Many metal cans are coated with BPA—a chemical commonly found in hard plastics and resins—unless they’re specifically marked as BPA-free. BPA is also present in various plastic products and dental composites, making it important to read labels carefully.
2. Cured and Smoked Foods
Nitrates and nitrites are used as preservatives in cured meats, helping to prevent spoilage and enhance color. However, when these compounds are heated, they can form N-nitroso compounds (such as nitrosamines and nitrosamides), which have been associated with an increased risk of cancer. It’s wise to limit processed meats like bacon, sausages, hot dogs, pepperoni, prosciutto, beef jerky, and salami.
3. Farmed Fish
According to Food and Water Watch, fish raised on farms tend to accumulate higher levels of contaminants like PCBs—known carcinogens—compared to their wild counterparts. Overcrowded conditions in fish farms also lead to a greater need for antibiotics and pesticides, further increasing chemical exposure.
4. Grilled Meat
When meat is grilled, especially over wood or coal, it can form polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) due to fat dripping onto the heat source and creating smoke. These PAHs then adhere to the meat, raising your exposure to carcinogenic substances.
5. Hydrogenated Oils
Often referred to as trans fats, hydrogenated oils are chemically altered to remain stable and prolong shelf life. These fats are linked to inflammation, an overactive immune response, and chronic conditions like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Their production involves various chemicals that alter their natural flavor and smell.
6. Microwave Popcorn
Microwave popcorn bags are typically lined with chemicals such as perfluoroalkyls, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) to prevent oil leakage. When heated, these substances can migrate into the popcorn, turning into blood pollutants. PFOA, in particular, has been associated with cancer in animal studies and an increased risk of prostate cancer in exposed workers.
7. Non-Organic Fruits & Vegetables
Conventional farming often relies on pesticides, herbicides, and genetically modified seeds, all of which may contribute to cancer risk. Pesticides, in particular, have been implicated in various studies. For further details, check out EWG’s 2015 “Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce.”
8. Processed Foods
Many processed foods are loaded with preservatives like nitrites and nitrates, especially in cured meats, which can elevate the risk of stomach and other cancers. Additionally, these foods are frequently high in refined white flour, sugars, unhealthy oils, artificial colors, and flavorings—ingredients that can be harmful in large quantities.
9. Refined Sugars
A diet high in refined sugars has been linked to a host of health problems, including unhealthy blood lipid levels, low HDL (good cholesterol), increased risk of heart disease, elevated triglycerides, obesity, immune suppression, and arthritis. Moreover, cancer cells tend to thrive on sugar, making it an important factor to monitor.
10. Soda and Sports Drinks
Beverages like soda and sports drinks provide minimal nutritional benefits while packing in high fructose corn syrup, sugar, artificial colors, brominated vegetable oil (a flame retardant), and aspartame—a sweetener that has been linked to cancer risk.
By choosing healthier alternatives and staying informed about the ingredients in your food, you can help reduce your exposure to these potential carcinogens and support your overall well-being as part of your cancer prevention efforts.