Research shows that cancer and diet are linked with each other, and dietary changes can significantly reduce cancer risk. A healthy diet can also help people who are dealing with the disease. Studies have also shown that certain foods are more likely to cause cancer than others. Thus, by avoiding certain food items, you can potentially decrease your risk of cancer.

Cancer-causing foods that you must ignore are as follows:

• Red meat and processed meat
  Red meat like beef, veal, pork, goat, and lamb are often touted as foods that increase your risk of cancer. Meat that is cured, salted, smoked, or fermented is also identified as potentially carcinogenic, and can also increase mortality rates. The International Agency for Research on Cancer, a branch of the World Health Organization, classifies processed meat as a Group 1 carcinogen, which can cause cancer in humans, especially colorectal cancer. Research shows that red meat and processed meat contain mutagens that can alter your genetic makeup. Processed meat also has additional preservatives like nitrates and nitrites, which can potentially elevate the cancer risk. When red meats are exposed to high temperatures during cooking, the amino acids in meats react to the heat to form carcinogenic compounds, which increase the risk of cancer.

• Sugar and refined carbohydrates
  Research has shown that sugar and carbohydrates lead to the growth of cancer cells. As a result, it is essential for people with cancer to avoid sugary foods at all costs. On the other hand, high-sugar and low-fiber food items also play a crucial role in increasing cancer risks. Stomach cancer, breast cancer, and colorectal cancer are associated with an increase in blood glucose levels. The chances of death from colon cancer are also significantly elevated in people who consume foods that are high in refined carbohydrates. Elevated levels of insulin and blood glucose also cause inflammation in the body, resulting in the growth of cancer cells.

• Processed foods
  Processed foods are among the most insidious cancer-causing foods to avoid, as many processed food items seem to be good for health. Certain food items, which are considered healthy, contain harmful cancer-causing compounds. Research shows that a 10% increase in the proportion of ultra-processed foods like baked goods, sugary drinks, and ready-to-eat meals can lead to a rise of 12% in the risk of cancer, and an 11% rise in the risk of breast cancer. Processed foods can also lead to obesity, which also significantly increases the risk of cancer.

Besides reducing the consumption of cancer-causing foods to avoid, it is also essential to cut down on your overall calorie consumption, as obesity is one of the greatest risk factors for cancer. Obesity can increase the risk of cancer in your esophagus, colon, pancreas, and kidney. Moreover, it can significantly decrease your chances of survival if you have cancer.