8 Foods That Cancer Doctors Avoid

It seems like every day there's a new report about a food that's bad for you. When you know that something is bad for you, you probably avoid it. But it's not always that cut and dry.

One day a study will say to stay away from a food and the next day another will say that it’s fine to eat. It’s hard to know what to do.

When it comes to foods that cause cancer, things are just as unclear.

consult doctor cancer causing foodsDo you want a smart way to help you make your food choices? It’s simple. Just stay away from foods that cancer doctors avoid.

If there is anybody who knows what foods are clear dangers, it’s the people who spend every day treating people who have the disease.

So, what are the foods that cancer doctors stay away from?

8 Foods That Cancer Doctors Avoid

1. Processed meat

Processed meats are any meats that are smoked, cured, or have salt or preservatives added to them. They include bacon, hot dogs, sausage and ham.

The reason that they are dangerous is that cancer-causing compounds form during the processing.

You can look for nitrate-free versions of these meats as a better option. 

2. Microwave popcorn 

microwave popcorn causes cancer

This food may seem innocent, but the ones that are flavored with artificial butter contains a compound called diacetyl that has been linked to lung cancer.

Even if you choose the type without butter flavoring, the bags that the snack is packed in contain an acid that may be carcinogenic.

Invest in an air popper if you just can't give up popcorn on movie nights.

3. Farmed salmon

When you go to the market, farmed salmon is cheaper than wild salmon, and there’s a reason why.

The farmed salmon has 16 times higher levels of contaminants called PCBs that cause cancer. Salmon is very good for you, but you have to choose the right type.

Look for wild caught salmon for your next fish dinner.

4. Charred meats

Everybody loves grilling, but it’s not good for your health if you overcook meats.

When meats are cooked at high enough heats to char them, it creates certain cancer-causing agents.

Some have even said that red meats and processed meats can be as dangerous as cigarettes.

Don't worry, you can still enjoy a nice grass-fed, pasture raised steak on the grill, just make sure you're cooking it to rare or medium temperature and skip the well-done meats.

5. Artificial sweeteners

Studies have linked those little packets of aspartame and (the others that come in yellow, blue or pink) to cancer.

You’re better off with honey (just don't be fooled by tricky labeling) or maple syrup. You can also opt for Stevia or coconut sugar, which are plant-based sweeteners. 

6. Alcohol in Excess alcohol cancer causing food

There is nothing wrong with a drink every now and then, but cancer doctors say there is a clear link between alcohol and cancer.

The link is especially high to head and neck cancer, liver cancer, breast cancer, and colon cancer.

Limit yourself to a couple of glasses per week, or even less.  Here are 7 tips on how to balance your healthy yet tipsy lifestyle.

7. Trans Fats

Trans fats are the oils found in vegetable shortening, margarine, and a host of crackers, cookies, cereals, and other popular foods.

It's made by turning liquid oil into solid fats. They have not been yet linked to cancer, but they have been tied to obesity and most experts will tell you to avoid trans fats like the plague.

8. Bagels

This one is hard to believe, and it’s all because of the processed white flour that bagels are made with.

They have a high glycemic index that boosts blood sugar levels and may cause lung cancer.

Opt for Ezekiel bread as a healthier and super tasty option.

We can't always avoid diseases but we can do our best to take steps to lower our risks. If you want more tips on this read:

5 Simple Habits to Lower Your Risk of Heart Attack

Top 9 Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Stroke

Cancer Fighting Quinoa Fruit Salad

Yours in health and happiness,

Danette

P.S. Please help me spread the word about these risky foods by sharing this article. Which food on this list surprises you the most?