Alcohol
Alcohol consumption leads to the breakdown of alcohol into acetaldehyde, a compound classified as carcinogenic. This substance induces DNA damage and oxidative stress and impedes the immune system’s ability to target precancerous and cancerous cells. In addition, in women, alcohol consumption heightens estrogen levels, correlating with a higher risk of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. [7] [8]
Overcooked Foods
Overcooking foods, particularly meats, creates carcinogens such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heterocyclic amines (HCAs). These substances have the potential to alter the DNA of your cells, increasing the risk of cancer. High-heat cooking methods like grilling, barbecuing, or pan-frying will likely produce these harmful compounds. Furthermore, overcooking starchy foods like potatoes can accelerate acrylamide formation, a chemical recognized for its potential to cause cancer.
Adopting healthier cooking practices, such as poaching, pressure cooking, or baking at lower temperatures, can significantly decrease the formation of these carcinogens.
