Although it’s widely known that junk food can lead to cancer, did you know that other types of food can also pose a threat? For instance, certain ingredients found in many packaged food products can pose a serious health risk.

Being informed about the various ingredients in food products can help us make informed decisions when it comes to choosing healthier options. This article will give you 17 common foods that can increase your cancer risk.

1.SODA

Aside from being jam-packed with sugar, soda also contains a caramel color, which is known to be a byproduct of the artificial coloring process. This chemical, 4-MEI, can cause cancer.

If you’re craving a sweet and fruity drink, look no further than a natural brand instead of a caramel-colored one.

2. Grilled red meat

 

High temperatures used for the cooking of red meat can cause hydrocarbons to form. This is why it’s important to limit your consumption of this type of food. Other alternatives to this type of meat include lean ground beef or organic.

3. Microwave popcorn

The butter flavoring used in microwave popcorn products can also release diacetyl, which is known to cause cancer when cooked. The perfluorooctanoic acid found in the bags itself is also known to be carcinogenic. Because of this, producers are not required to disclose if their popcorn has been genetically modified.

4. Canned food, especially tomatoes

The cans of canned goods are also lined with a chemical known as BPA, which is a hormone disrupter. This is why it’s very harmful to eat canned tomatoes as their acid can lead to the leaching of this chemical into the food. Other alternatives to canned food are frozen or fresh produce.

5. Hydrogenated oils

Vegetable oils are not extracted from their source naturally, but instead must undergo a chemical process. Later, even more chemicals are added to achieve the desired look and consistency of the product, resulting in an extremely high level of unhealthy omega-6 fats.Alternatives – Choose olive, soy, or canola oil instead; these oils are naturally extracted.

6. Farmed salmon

 

Although wild-caught salmon is considered one of the best sources of protein, farmed versions are often fed an unnatural diet that includes antibiotics, pesticides, and chemicals. This can lead to the development of harmful effects in the animals’ bodies.

7. Artificial sweeteners

Artificial sweeteners are produced through a chemical process, and there is currently insufficient evidence supporting their safety. Some studies claim that these chemicals can cause a buildup of toxins in the body, which could lead to the development of brain tumors. If you’re still worried about the safety of these products, try using a plant-based alternative instead.

8. Refined white flour

The process used to refine white flour strips away the nutritional value of the original wheat. This is done through a chlorine gas process that results in a white flour that’s very refined. Whole wheat flour is an excellent alternative to refined white flour. Before you start using this type of flour, make sure that the labels are clearly labeled.

9. Non-organic fruits & vegetables

Despite the healthy and nutritious components of fruits and vegetables, the pesticides used on them are still harmful. One of the most common pesticides that’s used on these vegetables is Altrazine, which has been banned in Europe due to its negative effects on humans.

10. Processed meat

Hot dogs, sausages, and bacon are some of the processed meats that are often added to our diet. The chemicals used in this process can lead to the development of harmful toxins in our bodies. The additives are designed to make the food look better, but they can also pose a health risk. Instead of adding these chemicals to your food, try buying organic and natural products instead.