Cancer, the most dreaded disease in this world, is still an enigma for the oncologists and cancer-researchers. With every passing day, we get to know a little more. Sill whatever we have accumulated and articulated till date makes up only a tiny piece of the puzzle.
We have identified several risk factors for each type of cancer affecting different organs from head to toe and also invented target therapy, immunotherapy and other types of treatment to kill the malignant cells. Still, we are years away from finding a ‘CURE’ that can eliminate the chance of cancer recurrence, metastases and successfully offer a permanent recovery from the advanced stage cancer.
Hope is always there but let us be more concerned about not getting into the zone where we need a treatment. Yes, you have guessed right – I’m talking about adopting the ways that can effectively reduce our chance of getting cancer. A healthy lifestyle can reduce your cancer risk. What makes a healthy lifestyle? According to the physicians at cancer hospitals in Kolkata, regular exercises, avoiding junk foods, smoking and alcohol, having a nutritious diet are all parts of a healthy lifestyle.
In this blog, I will talk about 3 most serious food offenders that you should avoid to stay healthy and keep diseases including cancer at bay.
Red Meat
Though red meat is rich in protein, iron and other micronutrients, it is linked to both cancer and cardiovascular disease. Problems start with excess consumption of red meat over time and when you don’t eat fruits and vegetables that can counterbalance the carcinogenic effects of red meat. Consumption of red meat and processed meat is linked to 15 types of cancer including:
- Liver
- Stomach
- Colorectal
- Esophagus
- Kidney
You don’t need to give up red meat consumption; rather limit your intake to only once per week. Eat plenty of whole grains, fruits and vegetables to decrease your risk of getting cancer. According to a study conducted on more than 50, 000 participants in Alberta, people who eat red meat along with low intake of fruits and vegetables, have a higher risk of getting different types of cancer.
Processed Meat
In 2015, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, a wing of the World Health Organization, classified processed meat as a class 1 carcinogen. Chemical, smoking and salting are used to preserve processed meat that includes hot dogs, sausages, salami and many more. Nitrates, which are used for food preservation, is a well-known agent to cause stomach and bowel cancer. Stop intake of processed meat to reduce your cancer risk.
Refined Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are a rich source of fibre and nutritional elements. So, they are good for health. But refined carbohydrates have no such nutritional value. These are easily digestible and so, will cause your blood sugar level to rise. Fibre has anti-carcinogenic properties. A diet rich in refined carbohydrates is linked to increased risk of developing breast and prostate cancer. Refined carbohydrates include:
- White bread
- White rice
- Pancakes and Waffles
- Pastries
- Bagels
- Tortillas
The oncologists at hospitals for cancer care in Kolkata suggest that people should replace refined carbohydrates with complex carbs, prefer brown rice to white rice, and use wheat flour instead of white flour for baking. Say no to refined breakfast cereals; switch to oatmeal.