5 Things Doctors Say You Should Never Give Your Children to Help Lower Cancer Risk

Cancer is one of the most devastating illnesses a family can face. It does not only affect the person diagnosed but ripples through the lives of everyone who loves them. The fight can be long, painful, and heartbreaking, and tragically, not every battle ends in survival.

What makes it even more painful is that cancer does not spare children. From infants to teenagers, young lives can be touched by this disease far too early.

Luke Morin and Garrett Matthias were both just five years old when cancer took their lives.

Luke survived only 17 days after being diagnosed with Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG), one of the rarest and most aggressive childhood brain cancers, with no known cure. His family says their son was “stolen from them,” and they now work tirelessly to raise awareness and funding in hopes of future breakthroughs.

Garrett fought a rare childhood cancer for ten months. He understood his illness and even wrote his own obituary. Instead of a traditional funeral, he asked for a celebration. His parents honored that wish with a life celebration that included a bounce house, snow cones, and a themed farewell inspired by Thor’s mother from the movies.

Both boys were deeply loved and cared for. Their parents did everything possible to keep them safe and healthy. Yet cancer still came.

That reality is important. Parents are not to blame. Cancer can be genetic and unpredictable. While no one can fully control whether it happens, doctors say there are ways to reduce certain risks, especially during childhood.

Here are five things many medical experts recommend avoiding or limiting for children.

1. Ultra-Processed Meats (Hot Dogs, Bacon, Sausages)

The World Health Organization classifies processed meats such as ham, bacon, salami, and frankfurters as Group 1 carcinogens, meaning there is strong evidence linking them to cancer.

These foods contain nitrates and nitrites, preservatives that can form cancer-causing compounds in the body, particularly affecting the colon. Because children’s digestive systems are still developing, they may be more vulnerable to these effects.

Healthier alternatives include fresh lean meats, grilled chicken, turkey, or plant-based protein options.

2. Sugary Drinks (Sodas, Energy Drinks, Even Some Juices)

Soft drinks, energy drinks, and many packaged juices contain extremely high sugar levels. Regular consumption is strongly linked to obesity and diabetes, both of which are associated with increased cancer risk later in life.

Even diet sodas are not necessarily safer. Some experts believe artificial sweeteners may disrupt metabolism and increase hunger signals. These drinks can also contain dyes and preservatives that have raised concerns in laboratory studies.

Better choices include water, fruit-infused water, or smoothies made from whole fruits.

3. Plastic Containers and Bottles Containing BPA

Many plastic food containers and bottles contain Bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical that can leach into food and drinks. BPA acts as an endocrine disruptor, mimicking estrogen in the body, which may raise the risk of hormone-related cancers such as breast or prostate cancer.

Even products labeled “BPA-free” may contain similar chemicals like BPS, which researchers are still evaluating for safety.

Safer options include glass, stainless steel, or food-grade silicone. Experts also advise never microwaving food in plastic.

4. Heavily Fried or Charred Foods

Foods cooked at very high temperatures, especially when fried or charred, can produce harmful compounds such as acrylamide and heterocyclic amines (HCAs). These chemicals have been linked to cancer risk in research studies.

Healthier cooking methods include steaming, baking, boiling, or lightly sautéing.

5. Talc-Based Baby Powder and Products Containing Formaldehyde

Some talc-based baby powders have been associated with cancer concerns due to possible asbestos contamination. In addition, certain baby care products like wipes, shampoos, and lotions may contain formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, which are considered carcinogenic.

Parents are encouraged to choose talc-free powders and personal care products labeled formaldehyde-free, preferably from brands focused on natural or low-toxin ingredients.

Small everyday choices can make a meaningful difference over time. Children’s bodies are still developing, which makes them more sensitive to environmental toxins and chemicals.

While no strategy can eliminate cancer risk entirely, reducing exposure where possible is one way parents can support long-term health.

Sharing information like this helps families make more informed decisions and encourages broader awareness about prevention.