Telly actress Chhavi Mittal was recently diagnosed with breast cancer. The actress didn't shy away from sharing about her chronic disease with her fans and followers. Ever since she got diagnosed with the health issue, she has been quite active on her social media and sharing updates on her health online.
Recently, Chhavi Mittal shared a video of herself having food at the hospital post her surgery. She thanked her friends for sending her home-cooked food following the meal restrictions shared by her doctors.
On her post, Chhavi Mittal also shared that cancer patients should completely avoid eating whit sugar. However, they can consume jaggery made desserts.
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We spoke to Megha Mukhija, Nutritionist, Founder and Chief Dietitian at Health Mania and asked her to share about foods which cancer survivors and patients shouldn't consume. She said, "We exactly do not know what causes cancer. While certain foods may protect against cancer, other foods may increase your risk. To reduce the risk of cancers or fight cancer quickly, one must reduce the intake of certain foods and beverages or avoid them altogether."
Foods Cancer Survivors Or Patients Should Completely Stop Eating
Alcohol
When one consumes alcohol, the liver breaks it down into acetaldehyde, a carcinogenic compound. This compound is believed to promote DNA damage and oxidative stress. This compound also interferes with the immune function of the body and makes it difficult for the body to fight cancerous cells. According to numerous studies, women who consume alcohol are at a higher risk of breast cancer. Alcohol is a cancer-causing agent and shouldn't be consumed. If one wants to consume it, they should not have more than 1 drink per day.
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Processed Meats
Processed meats are meats that are preserved by salting, smoking, and canning. Most of them are red meats. Some red meats which are processed are sausage, ham, hot dogs. The methods through which meats are processed create carcinogens which are a major cause of stomach cancer.
Overcooked Foods
Overcooking of foods also leads to the production of carcinogens. carcinogens increase the risk of cancer by altering the DNA of the cells. Foods are usually overcooked when they are prepared at high temperatures or over an open flame. Some of these cooking methods are grilling, pan-frying, and barbecuing.
According to some studies, overcooking starchy foods like potatoes is also harmful. To reduce the risk of carcinogens, healthier cooking methods should be used such as pressure cooking, baking, roasting, and poaching.
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Sugar
Just like Chhavi Mittal shared in her post, sugary foods (tips to control sugar cravings) are a complete no-no for cancer patients. They increase the risk of cancer. Eating high sugary foods also puts one at the risk of health problems like obesity and type 2 diabetes. Both the conditions promote inflammation in the body and lead to oxidative stress. This increases the risk of certain types of cancer.
Some common sugar-rich foods are -
- Sweetened drinks like soft drinks, sports drinks, energy drinks
- Cookies
- Dairy desserts like ice cream and yogurt
- Candies
- Cakes
Refined Carbohydrates
Refined and processed carbohyrate-rich foods like pizza, bagels, breads, pastries should also be avoided completely. Instead, one should consume foods like whole-wheat bread, brown rice, and cereals. These foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber.
If you are a cancer patient or survivor, you should check with your doctor before adding any of these foods to your diet. Otherwise, also, we suggest you speak to your doctor about your regular diet to stay safe and healthy.
For more such expert backed health stories, stay tuned!