We all know the importance of a healthy diet, from preventing diseases to managing chronic diseases, a healthy diet can make the difference.There are many foods that we consume more often that are actually increasing the risk of cancer as per several studies. For advanced treatment in oncology in Siliguri, visit the best cancer surgeon in the region.
The impact of ultra-processed foods specifically cancer risk needs more research and is ongoing.This reading shares insights into ultra-processed foods increasing cancer risks.
Overview ofultra-processed foods
Ultra-processed foods are those foods with high levels of industrial processing. These foods have ingredients or compounds not found in your home kitchen. Such ingredients include:
- hydrolyzed proteins
- nitrites
- potassium bromate
- heterocyclic amines
- modified starches
- hydrogenated oils
- acrylamides
These harmful ingredients are present in sugary beverages, junk foods, processed meats, canned foods, soda, farmed salmon, flour, sugar substitutes, dairy products, fried foods, potato chips, sausages, pickles, instant noodles, and snacks, some frozen meals, etc.
You will see these foods often have high amounts of sugar, unhealthy fats, and salt while lacking nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals. If you keep consuming these foods, this practice may cause digestive issues, hormonal imbalance, poor heart health, sleep disturbances, increased inflammation in the body, insulin resistance, and even cancer. You can consult the top oncologists in Siliguri for advanced cancer care.
What is theconnection between cancer and ultra-processed foods?
Studies found that higher consumption of ultra-processed foods/ UPF increases the chance of cancer, such as breast cancer, colorectal cancer, pancreatic cancer, and liver cancer.
AICR’s Cancer Prevention Recommendations suggest eating more vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes. Oncology in Siliguri has come a long way with ongoing improvements led by the top cancer doctors.
How Ultra-Processed Foods Might Contribute to Cancer Risk
- Chemical additives in UPFs often contain emulsifiers, preservatives, and artificial sweeteners.These additives may have carcinogenicmaterials, such as artificial colors linked to cancer.
- Nutrient imbalance can result from UPFintake. These highly processed foods are typically low in essential nutrients like fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals, which are present in whole foods. Thus, UPFs don’t support your immune system, making you more likely to get diseases.
- Obesity and inflammation can result from your food choices. If your diet is high in ultra-processed foods, it may contribute to obesity, a potential risk factor for breast, colon, and pancreatic cancer.
- Obesity if remains unchecked can lead to chronic inflammation, increasing the risk of different types of cancers.
- Many ultra-processed foods have high glycemic index, leading to rapid spikes in your blood sugar. Plus, UPFs can interfere with your insulin levels.
- Chronic high levels of insulin are responsible for insulin resistance, which has been linked to colorectal cancer, breast cancer, pancreatic cancer, prostate cancer, etc.
To prioritize your health, have fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and whole grains in your diet. Besides that, practice regular exercise for better blood circulation, digestion, hormonal balance, et al.
The link between highly processed foods and cancer demands more studies. But, there is no doubt about the harmful impacts of such food choices on our well-being.