Processed Meats
Cold cuts, sausages, and smoked meats are popular products loved by many for their convenience and delicious taste. However, these foods contain chemical preservatives to keep them fresh and appealing, which can also be carcinogens.
Nitrites and nitrates in processed meats have been associated with an increased risk of cancer, especially colorectal and rectal cancers.
Microwave Popcorn
Isn’t it great to enjoy some microwave popcorn while watching a movie? However, caution is needed when consuming this snack. There was a time when people thought that inhaling the aroma of microwave popcorn could increase the risk of lung cancer.
This has been proven to be false. Instead, scientists have found another potential health hazard. It turns out that a toxic substance is present in the non-stick coating inside the popcorn bag. When we put it in the microwave and heat it up, the high temperature causes it to break down into a compound called perfluorooctanoic acid. This compound can increase the risk of cancer. Additionally, the adhesive lining around the bag can also release toxins when heated.
Carbonated Drinks
Similar to processed meats, carbonated drinks have been scientifically proven to be one of the factors causing cancer. This is because carbonated drinks contain high levels of sugar, chemicals used in food, and coloring agents that can have a negative impact on the body. They can lead to aging and create favorable conditions for the rapid development of cancer cells.
Grilled Red Meat
Almost everyone loves this dish. However, scientists have discovered that grilled red meat releases heterocyclic amines. These are common carcinogens. The National Cancer Institute also states that cooking meat at high temperatures, such as on a barbecue, can produce strong carcinogens and increase the risk of developing malignant cancer cells.
Refined Sugar
According to nutrition experts, refined sugar not only increases the risk of tooth decay and weight gain but also can cause various types of cancer such as breast, prostate, bladder, pancreas, and colon cancer.
Unsaturated Cooking Oil
Unsaturated cooking oil is extracted from plants through a complex chemical process. It contains a large amount of omega-6 fatty acids. This metabolic fat can increase the risk of heart disease or the risk of developing skin, pancreas, and colon cancers.
Canned Tomatoes
Canned foods are a concern for consumers due to worries about the quality of the tin can. Tin cans are often made of a chemical called bisphenol-A or BPA.
A study published in May 2013 showed that BPA actually affects the activity of genes in the brains of experimental mice.
Due to its high acidity, tomatoes can easily absorb BPA from the can. Therefore, you should not give canned tomatoes or any canned foods to young children.