Dr. Saurabh Sethi Reveals: The Worst Foods That Can Raise Your Cancer Risk

When it comes to preventing the cancer, most people think of the routine screenings and early detection. 

But according to Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a Harvard-trained gastroenterologist, what you eat every day can be just as much important, if it's not more.

In his recent health advisory, Dr. Sethi sheds deep light on how the certain common foods are scientifically linked to the increased cancer risk, and why it's very crucial to limit or avoid them. 

These aren't just exotic or rare ingredients, but they're the strong staples that many people consume daily without even realising their long-term damage.

The Top Cancer-Linked Foods to Avoid According to Dr. Sethi-

Ultra-Processed Meats (like bacon, sausages, ham):

Dr. Sethi warns that these are among the most worst for increasing the cancer risk, especially colon cancer, due to the chemical preservatives and nitrites.

Sugary Drinks (sodas, energy drinks):

These drinks are linked to the faster cancer progression, as the excess of sugar can feed the abnormal cell growth and spike in insulin levels.

Deep-Fried Foods (like french fries and fried snacks):

Loaded with the trans fats and advanced glycation end products (AGEs), these highly contribute to chronic inflammation, creating a fertile ground for the disease.

Charred or Burnt Meats:

High-temperature cooking forms the carcinogens like heterocyclic amines (HCAs), which can lead to the DNA mutations and potentially even cancer.

Alcohol:

Especially dangerous in the context of hormone-related cancers like the breast and liver cancer. Dr. Sethi emphasises the moderation or abstinence for high-risk individuals.

Ultra-Processed Packaged Foods:

These products are filled with additives, preservatives, and even hidden sugars, can highly cause silent inflammation, one of the root causes of many chronic illnesses also including cancer.

“You don't need a medical degree to eat smart,” Dr. Sethi says. “If it comes in a box, it has a long shelf life, or even contains ingredients which you can't pronounce, so always think twice.”

His prime recommendation? 

Whole foods, plant-based meals, and some mindful eating over the calorie counting or even diet fads. Prevention always starts in the kitchen.

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