How can processed foods cause cancer

Some examples of these foods include:. Eating a high concentration of sugary, starchy foods may put you at an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes and obesity. According to a study , both conditions promote inflammation and oxidative stress. This may increase your risk for certain types of cancer. According to a review , type 2 diabetes increases the risk for ovarian , breast , and endometrial uterine cancer. A high intake of sugar and refined carbohydrates may also lead to high blood glucose levels, which according to a study , may be a risk factor for colorectal cancer.

To limit the health effects of refined carbohydrates, try to swap these foods with healthier alternatives such as:. When you consume alcohol , your liver breaks down alcohol into acetaldehyde, a carcinogenic compound.

According to a review , acetaldehyde promotes DNA damage and oxidative stress. It also interferes with your immune function, making it difficult for your body to target precancerous and cancerous cells.

In women, alcohol increases levels of estrogen in the body, according to a study. This is linked with a higher risk for estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. According to scientific research, some foods contain beneficial compounds that may help reduce the risk of cancer. This includes foods like:. Processed meat, overcooked foods, and fried foods may increase your risk of some types of cancer. Dairy, sugar, and refined carbs may also raise the risk of some types of cancer.

To reduce your risk for cancer, try to limit the consumption of these foods, and focus on healthy lifestyle habits. This includes eating more foods that may lower your cancer risk, getting regular exercise, and finding ways to reduce your stress. Many foods contain beneficial compounds that could help decrease the growth of cancer.

This article looks at 13 foods that may lower your risk of…. The others develop or are added as part of the process to produce these meats.

All of these chemicals can damage the cells in the colon and rectum. As damage accumulates over time cancer risk greatly increases. If processed meat products are part of your diet, you can take steps to reduce or eliminate them. Think outside the box.

Eating less processed meat is easier than you think. Here are some healthy swap tips to get you started. Keeping a food log can help you be more mindful of just how much processed meat you are eating. Be sure to carry healthy substitutions like hummus and vegetables that can replace that deli sandwich.

Once you become of aware of your eating habits and start choosing healthier foods, reducing and even eliminating processed meats from your diet will become easier. My Chart. Donate Today. For Physicians. Cancer Moonshots. February Guide: Eat less processed meat. Previous Article. Next Article. February : Processed meat and cancer: What you need to know. For many, a turkey sandwich is a lunchtime fixture, bacon is a prized breakfast treat and cookouts wouldn't be the same without hotdogs on the grill Unfortunately, when these processed meats are preserved, cancer-causing substances form.

Body weight is not determined by a single factor, but by a number, most of which are beyond our personal control such as factors that affect how available, affordable and acceptable healthy diets or fast food are. We need a package of policies that change our food environment and system to make healthier food choices easier. Policies are needed that influence the food environment, the food system and behaviour change communication across the life course.

These policies can also help contribute to a sustainable ecological environment. Policymakers are encouraged to frame specific goals and actions according to their national context. Find out more on policy action for cancer prevention. Close Menu Exposures. Wholegrains, vegetables and fruit. Meat, fish and dairy. Preservation and processing of foods. Go meatless when you can. Otherwise, limit cooked red meat to no more than three portions per week, with each portion measuring between four and six ounces.

Enjoy fresh fruit and fruit infused water instead as a snack. Choose whole grain breads, pasta, and cereals such as oats, barley, and brown rice. Use these in place of foods made from refined flour like white bread , pasta, low fiber breakfast cereals, and white rice. Aim for a healthy weight. Avoid inactivity.