Myth Busters: Does This Food Cause Cancer?
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The internet is chock full of recommendations of what to add or remove from your diet to stave off cancer. Eat broccoli. Drink green tea. Cut sugar. Don't overcook your food. But how often do these claims hold water? Are there really superfoods that can prevent cancer or bad foods that can cause or worsen the disease? Nutrition does play an important role in our overall health, and a poor diet can influence our chances of developing cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 5 cancers in the U.S. and about 1 in 6 cancer deaths can be linked to poor nutrition, being overweight, not exercising, or alcohol. The American Cancer Society recommends healthy eating habits, which include lots of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, as well as limiting red meats, sugary beverages, highly processed foods, and refined grains.
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@lata All cells in our bodies, including cancerous ones, use sugar molecules, also known as carbohydrates, as their primary source of energy. But that's not the only source of fuel for our cells. Cells can use other nutrients, such as proteins and fats, to grow. Scientists are, however, investigating whether certain diets can help slow the growth of tumors. For instance, some preliminary evidence from trials in rodents and humans shows that the ketogenic diet, which is low in carbohydrates and high in fat, may help slow the growth of some types of tumors, such as those in the rectum, when combined with standard cancer treatments like radiation and chemotherapy.