Reframe as: Let's label it as 'the Diet Against Cancer' instead
Obesity Linked to Increased Risk of Over a Dozen Cancer Types, Study Finds
According to extensive research, obesity is associated with an increased risk of more than a dozen types of cancer. Furthermore, obesity can worsen prognosis and survival rates, creating an environment within the body that favors cancer growth.
A study analyzing data from the 2017 European Prospective Investigation Into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study found that obesity heightens the release of harmful molecules from fat tissue, contributing to increased breast cancer risk. Another study showed that fat, particularly belly fat, releases a protein that can turn non-cancerous cells cancerous.
In light of this, the question arises: How can we lower the risk of obesity-related cancers? Although reversing obesity remains the ultimate goal, a recent study offers an interim solution — adhering to a Mediterranean diet.
Researchers evaluated data from 450,111 participants in the EPIC study, which enrolled participants aged 35 to 70 across Europe. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was measured on a nine-point scale, with high adherence associated with a 6% lower risk for obesity-related cancers compared with those with the lowest adherence. Site-specific cancers, such as colorectal, liver, and kidney cancers, were linked to up to a 48% lower risk with high adherence.
The study revealed that the reduction in cancer risk was greater in current and former smokers, as well as among those who drank only moderate amounts of alcohol and had a lower meat intake.
In terms of specific foods that contribute to this reduced risk, the Mediterranean diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, and whole grains. Lean meats, low-fat dairy, and olive oil should be consumed judiciously. If your diet currently consists of ultra-processed foods, try to replace one meal each day with Mediterranean-style choices, such as an olive oil-dressed salad with tuna or salmon.
By adopting a Mediterranean diet, you may find yourself on the path to defending against obesity-related cancers, particularly site-specific cancers like colorectal, liver, and kidney cancers.
- Adherence to a Mediterranean diet, rich in fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, and whole grains, may lower the risk of obesity-related cancers by up to 6%.
- In the study, high adherence to the Mediterranean diet was associated with a 48% lower risk for site-specific cancers such as colorectal, liver, and kidney cancers.
- The study indicated that the reduction in cancer risk was more significant among current and former smokers, moderate alcohol consumers, and those with lower meat intake.
- To defend against obesity-related cancers, consider replacing one meal a day with Mediterranean-style choices, like an olive oil-dressed salad with tuna or salmon, to incorporate the benefits of this healthy diet.
