Making Lifestyle Changes? Here are Foods that Increase the Risk of Cancer and You Need to Avoid

Cancer is what happens when your DNA and genes mutate, and your cells reproduce incorrectly. There are lots of things that can cause this: carcinogens, obesity, radiation, hormones, smoking, viruses, chronic inflammations, etc. We’re used to thinking of these as outside sources, but they’re actually present in the food we eat. Below, are some foods that are known to cause cancer

Microwave Popcorn

The fumes that radiate from microwave popcorn have been associated with lung cancer for some time now. Specifically, the fumes released from the artificial butter contain diacetyl, a substance that is toxic to humans. To avoid the diacetyl, you should make your own popcorn, the old school way.

Canned Goods

The majority of canned goods are lined with bisphenol-A (BPA), a product that has been proven to genetically alter the brain cells of rats. You should protect your DNA by avoiding canned goods and sticking to fresh or frozen veggies. Make sure the veggies you use have no added ingredients.

Grilled Red Meat

Grilling meat can lead to the release of a certain carcinogen known as heterocyclic aromatic amines. This is especially the case when it comes to processed meats like hot dogs and spam. Grilling read meat to the point that it is well-done can actually change the molecular and chemical structure of the meat. Choose to bake or broil your meat instead of grilling it.

Refined Sugar

Refined sugars are some of the worst cancer causing culprits out there. High-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is especially heinous when it comes to causing cancer. Insulin spikes are caused by the consumption of refined sugars like white sugar, brown sugar, and HFCS. The best options for a sweetener are honey, maple sugar, and coconut sugar.

White Flour

White flour is not only just unhealthy for you; it has all of its nutritional value refined out of it, but it has a very high glycemic index. This means that it spikes your insulin levels and can lead to insulin resistance. The simple sugars that come from white flour help to fuel the production of cancer cells.