Last Updated on February 9, 2022 by Neelam Singh
Cancer is a complex disease that has many risk factors. Researchers are contemplating if an unhealthy diet can induce DNA damage. However, there is no evidence that suggests diet can change the genetic material. The existing research supports that an unhealthy diet can induce obesity, stress or depression which are major risk factors of cancer.
Studies have shown that processed meat, fried food, overcooked food, dairy products, sugar and refined carbohydrates, alcohol, tobacco, etc., can induce cancer. Moreover, prolonged consumption of alcohol and tobacco can cause damage to the DNA to cause cancer in the mouth or gastrointestinal tract.
That being the case, the western diet is widely criticised by many researchers as it can potentially cause cancer. A western diet is high in desserts, sweets, processed food, red meat, processed meat, dairy products and refined grains, whereas, it is low in whole grains, vegetables, legumes and fruits. Doctors recommend cancer patients avoid eating a western diet.
On the contrary, a Mediterranean diet is good for people with cancer. A Mediterranean diet is exactly the opposite of the western diet as it is high in fruits and vegetables and low on processed and refined food.
If you are diagnosed with cancer, it is recommended to visit your doctor and devise a diet plan as per your signs and symptoms. A healthy and customized diet can help you live a happy life.
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