Although more research is needed, studies have raised concerns over cancer-causing foods and beverages that contain lots of sugar, salt, and saturated fat, as well as the role of consuming alcohol. Given that obesity is a risk factor for several cancer types, a healthy diet to maintain weight may also limit your risk.
This article presents five types of foods that may cause cancer. It discusses research findings about these foods and offers a few food alternatives that may help to limit your cancer risk.
Red meat consumption may be associated with:
Breast cancer Esophageal cancer
How the meats are prepared plays a role in what carcinogens (cancer-causing chemicals) are released. One study found that well-done meats cooked at high heat over an open flame, as well as smoked meats, may increase prostate cancer risks.
Processed meats are linked to an increased risk of developing cancer. They also tend to have more salt and saturated fat as ingredients, which may add to the risk.
These foods include:
Hot dogsLunchmeats, like corned beef or salamiBacon, ham, and sausageBeef jerky
Consuming these foods has been associated with colon and rectal cancers, but it may also play a role in pancreatic cancer, lung cancer, stomach and esophageal cancers, and cancers of the nose and throat.
Sugars including fructose, lactose (a natural sugar found in milk), and maltose often are ingredients in foods ranging from breakfast cereals to beverages. Their presence in the diet has been implicated in different cancer types, including breast cancer.
One study of 101,279 people, followed on average for nearly six years, found that total sugar intake was associated with higher overall cancer risk.
The authors concluded that people who modify their diets by reducing sugar consumption may benefit from a lower cancer risk.
However, studies have not demonstrated a direct link between lung cancer and sugary foods, or for that matter with any type of cancer.
Saturated fats pose a number of health risks including high cholesterol and heart disease. Some studies suggest a link between saturated fat consumption and breast cancer, as well as how an existing cancer advances in people who consume them.
Options to replace foods high in saturated fats include olive oil and foods (like some types of fish) that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, an essential nutrient with many health benefits.
Breast cancer Mouth and throat cancers Digestive tract cancers, including colon and esophageal cancers
Moderate alcohol use may increase cancer risk too, but it’s excessive drinking—especially if you also smoke—that dramatically increases your chances of developing cancer.
High blood pressure, kidney function, and even your immune system health may be affected by the salt you use. Salt consumption also may play a role in development of certain cancer types, although studies remain inconclusive.
What is clear is that salt leads to chronic inflammation, which may influence how cancer develops. A number of cancer types, including breast, prostate, liver, and stomach cancers, may be associated with salt intake because of sodium’s key cellular role in the body.
Summary
The role of certain foods in causing cancer, such as red meat consumption that increases the risk of colon and rectal cancers, or alcohol use and liver disease, is well-established.
But for many other foods, an understanding of the direct link between food and cancer continues to evolve. Research evidence does suggest a relationship between dairy foods and breast cancer, for example, but more study is needed.
Healthy food choices may prevent cancer but they’re also important when reducing your risk of other health conditions. Lifestyle choices like getting more exercise, avoiding tobacco, and improving your diet are steps you can take to protect your health. Talk to your healthcare provider if you have specific concerns about cancer and the foods you eat.
