Cancer is categorized into five different types based on the part(s) of the body it affects. These types are defined as carcinoma, sarcoma, melanoma, lymphoma, and leukemia. Carcinoma affects the skin, lungs, breasts, and pancreas. Sarcoma affects soft or connective tissues such as bone, muscle, fat, blood vessels, and cartilage. Melanoma affects the skin and its pigment cells. Lymphoma affects the body’s lymphocytes, while leukemia affects the blood. Research suggests that certain foods carry a higher risk of cancer risk if eaten regularly.

Below is a list of cancer-causing foods:

1. Alcohol
A great deal of research has been done which links the amount of alcohol consumed to a person’s risk of developing specific types of cancer. These include esophageal cancer, as well as neck, breast, liver, or colorectal cancers. Alcohol carries such a high risk because the body’s process for metabolizing alcohol produces a substance called acetaldehyde, a compound that has the potential to damage otherwise healthy DNA.

2. Processed meats
Many processed meats contain chemical preservatives to help them last longer. These preservatives are believed to contribute to cancer if the body is exposed to them regularly.
Examples of processed meats include things like bacon, hot dogs, pepperoni, beef jerky, or sausage. This also includes salted or cured meats as they are also treated with chemical preservatives to increase shelf life.

3. Charred meats
Cooking meat at extremely high temperatures can trigger a chemical change in the material, forming chemical bonds that develop into carcinogenic compounds. These can damage your DNA in large doses. Avoid eating large or consistent portions of well-done, barbequed, or fried meats. You can also marinate meats before cooking to decrease the risk factor a bit. Cancers associated with charred meat include prostate, pancreatic, and colorectal.

4. Red meat
It’s also a good idea to avoid large portions of red meat, as red meats have been connected to cases of pancreatic, prostate cancer, and colorectal cancer, as well. Some examples of red meats include pork, beef, veal, lamb, mutton, horse, or goat.

5. Hot beverages
Drinking hot beverages has been linked to an increased risk of esophageal cancer, according to a study published in the International Journal of Cancer. This can include any drink prepared at a heat of 149 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. It’s recommended to let the beverage cool down before consuming.

6. Fatty or sugary foods
This is more of a general consideration because there is a strong connection between obesity and cancer. Much of the obesity problem, in America at least, is linked to added sugars. To reduce the risk of obesity, look at your ingredients and switch out as many sugar-rich foods as you can manage. Some cancer causing drinks includes sodas and juices, both of which are high in sugar. Remember that a cancer resistant diet includes large amounts of grains, fruits, and vegetables, with a limited intake of saturated fats.

Cancer affects the DNA on a cellular level and is so dangerous because of its capacity to spread throughout the body. There is no surefire cure as of yet, and treatments are known to be expensive and physically taxing. As such, it is best to take preventative measures and adapt your lifestyle. Consider some diet and exercise changes based on the advice of a doctor or health professional if you feel you are at risk.