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While moast stomach cancer cases appear to arise randomly, it seems your diet, alongside a healthy lifestyle, could play a role in reducing your risk. “Most cases of stomach cancer happen sporadically and are purely a matter of bad luck,” explains Sharon Shiraga, MD, an upper-gastrointestinal surgeon with Keck Medicine of USC. However, that doesn’t mean you’re powerless against the disease.
Diet and Stomach Cancer Risk: What Does the Research Say?
stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, is a disease in which malignant cells form in the lining of the stomach. According to the American Cancer Society,approximately 1.03 million new cases of stomach cancer are diagnosed each year in the United States.
Research suggests a strong link between diet and certain types of stomach cancer.specifically, dietary factors are more closely associated with non-cardia gastric cancer – cancer that develops in the lower part of the stomach – than with cardia cancer, which occurs in the area where the esophagus joins the stomach. One might suggest that focusing on dietary changes could be particularly beneficial for lowering the risk of non-cardia stomach cancer.
Foods to Include in Your Diet
- Fruits and Vegetables: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables is consistently linked to a lower risk of many cancers, including stomach cancer. These foods are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can protect cells from damage. The National Institutes of Health highlights the protective effects of fruits and vegetables against gastric cancer.
- Fiber-Rich Foods: Foods high in fiber, such as whole grains, beans, and lentils, may offer some protection. Fiber promotes digestive health and can help reduce inflammation.
- Vitamin C-Rich foods: Some studies suggest that a higher intake of vitamin C might potentially be associated with a reduced risk.Good sources include citrus fruits, berries, and peppers.
- Garlic and Onions: These allium vegetables contain compounds that may have anti-cancer properties. research indicates they could help inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
- Green Tea: Preliminary research suggests that green tea, with its potent antioxidants, might offer some protection against stomach cancer. However, more research is needed.
Foods to Limit or Avoid
- Processed Meats: The World Health Association classifies processed meats as group 1 carcinogens,meaning there is sufficient evidence to conclude they cause cancer. High consumption of processed meats, like bacon, sausage, and hot dogs, is linked to an increased risk of stomach cancer.
- Smoked Foods: Similar to processed meats, smoked foods contain compounds that can damage cells and increase cancer risk.
- Salty and Pickled Foods: High salt intake can damage the stomach lining,increasing susceptibility to cancer. Pickled foods often contain high levels of salt.
- Red Meat: While not as strongly linked as processed meats, high consumption of red meat may also contribute to increased risk.
- Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption is associated with an increased risk of several cancers, including stomach cancer.
Beyond Diet: Other Important Lifestyle Factors
It’s important to remember that diet is just one piece of the puzzle. Other factors that can influence your risk of stomach cancer include:
- Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) Infection: This bacterial infection is a major risk factor for stomach cancer. If you suspect you may have an H. pylori infection, talk to your doctor about testing and treatment.
- Smoking: Smoking considerably increases the risk of stomach cancer.
- Family history: If you have a family history of stomach cancer, you might potentially be at higher risk.
- Obesity: being overweight or obese can increase your risk.
