The statement “everything causes cancer” has become a popular hyperbole, and some people use it to justify their diet and lifestyle, especially regarding the cancer risk.

The most unhealthy foods that can cause cancer

According to the  Natural News portal, the truth is that, indeed, it has been scientifically proven that many foods substantially increase the risk of cancer. Here are the ten foods that can cause this disease and whose consumption should be avoided:

1. Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO)

GMOs have no place in a diet to remain cancer-free, especially now that It has been shown that both GMOs and the chemical products used for its cultivation cause tumours in the organism. But GMOs are everywhere, including in most foods derived from conventional corn, soy or canola. However, you can avoid them by eating certified and verified organic foods or foods grown without using biotechnology.

2. Processed meats Processed

Meat products, such as deli meats, bologna, bacon, sausages etc., contain chemical preservatives that make them look fresh and attractive but can also cause cancer. Both sodium nitrite and nitrate have been linked to a significantly increased risk of colon and other cancers, so be sure to choose cured meat products that are nitrate-free and preferably from grass-fed sources.

3. Microwave Popcorn

They may be conspicuous for their ease of preparation, but microwave popcorn bags contain chemicals linked to various types of cancer and infertility. Similarly, a compound called ‘diacetyl’ is used in popcorn to artificially flavour butter and is related to severe lung disease. Also, some of the ingredients used may contain genetically modified materials.

4. Soft

Drinks Like processed meats,  soft drinks have been shown to cause cancer. Laced with sugar, chemicals, and dyes, sodas and soft drinks acidify our bodies and feed cancer cells.

5. ‘Diet’ foods and drinks

They are even more harmful than sodas. The European Food Safety Authority found that aspartame, one of the most common artificial sweeteners, causes several diseases, including congenital disabilities and cancer. Sucralose (Splenda), saccharin, and other artificial sweeteners have also been linked to cancer.

6. White refined flour

It is a common ingredient in processed foods, but its excess carbohydrate content is a severe cause for concern. A study published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology found that regular consumption of refined carbohydrates was linked to a 220% increase in breast cancer among women. In addition, foods with a high glycemic index have been shown to rapidly increase blood sugar levels, which directly fuels the growth of cancer cells.

7. Refined sugars

The same goes for these products, which tend to increase insulin levels and fuel the growth of cancer cells. High-fructose sweeteners such as high-fructose corn syrup are particularly harmful, as they have been shown to help metabolise and increase cancer cells. Like cookies, cakes, pastries, soft drinks, juices, sauces, cereals and many other popular foods, most of them processed, contain fructose and other refined sugars, which would explain why cancer rates are on the rise.

8. Conventional apples, grapes and other ‘dirty’ fruits

Many people think they eat healthy when buying apples, grapes, or strawberries at the store. But unless these fruits are organic or verified to be free of pesticides, they could be a significant cancer risk. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) found that 98% of all conventional produce, particularly those on its fruit list, are contaminated with cancer-causing pesticides.

9. Farmed salmon

According to Dr David Carpenter, director of the Institute for Health and the Environment at the University at Albany,  USA., farmed salmon is another food with a high risk of cancer. According to Carpenter’s research, farmed salmon is not only lacking in vitamin D but is often contaminated with carcinogens, retardants, pesticides and antibiotics.

10. Hydrogenated oils

These are commonly used to preserve processed foods and keep them shelf-stable. However, hydrogenated oils alter the structure and flexibility of cell membranes throughout the body, leading to some debilitating diseases, including cancer. Some manufacturers are phasing out these oils and substituting them with palm oil and other safer alternatives, but trans fats are still widely used in processed foods.