7 Foods a Cancer Dietitian Says You Should NEVER Eat!

In a world obsessed with healthy choices, Nichole Andrews, a leading oncology dietitian based in Washington, is sounding the alarm on seven seemingly innocent foods and drinks you might want to reconsider. With her recent TikTok post amassing a staggering 2.9 million views, viewers are eager to learn what foods could be jeopardizing their health.

1. Alcohol: A Silent Cancer Risk

Andrews is a staunch advocate for sobriety, claiming that not only does alcohol raise your risk of developing cancer, but it can also promote its recurrence. According to the CDC, the consumption of any type of alcohol—from your beloved red wine to cocktails—has been linked to an increased risk of several cancers, including those of the mouth, throat, liver, and breast. The culprit? A toxic substance called acetaldehyde, which forms when your body metabolizes alcohol, causing potential DNA damage.

2. Processed Meats: A Carcinogenic Culprit

Processed meats, including hot dogs and deli meats, top Andrews’s list of foods to avoid. The World Health Organization has declared processed meats as carcinogenic, citing sufficient evidence linking them to colorectal cancer. The nitrates in these meats can convert into harmful compounds within the body, raising alarming cancer risks.

3. Soda: The Sweet Lifestyle Killer

Sugary sodas aren’t just bad for your waistline; they threaten your health too. By steering clear of sugary beverages—especially when dining out—Andrews avoids hefty calorie intakes that increase body fat, which is a known contributor to the risk of various cancers. Notably, studies have even revealed a link between soda consumption and heightened liver cancer risk in older women.

4. Red Meat: Moderation is Key

Although not categorically harmful, Andrews points out that consuming more than 18 ounces of red meat weekly could raise your risk of colorectal cancer. While it's rich in nutrients, the heme iron in red meat can also promote the formation of harmful chemicals. Andrews suggests substituting red meat with leaner options like turkey, chicken, or plant-based proteins.

5. Coffee Drinks: Dessert in Disguise

Coffee can be your friend—if consumed mindfully. While moderate coffee intake has various health benefits, sugary coffee drinks can quickly turn into calorie bombs. For a healthier twist, Andrews recommends ordering smaller sizes and reducing sugar, thereby avoiding the pitfalls of indulgent coffee concoctions.

6. White Grains: The Nutrient Dilemma

It's time to ditch the white bread! Andrews champions whole grains, as they pack more fiber and nutrients while potentially lowering the risk of some cancers. While white grains aren't directly linked to increased cancer risk, their lack of fiber makes them a suboptimal choice overall.

7. Plant-Based Milks: The Nutritional Debate

Despite the plant-based trend, Andrews argues in favor of full-fat dairy options, citing their higher protein content. The calcium found in cow’s milk is also linked to a reduced risk of colorectal cancer. Experts caution that not all plant-based alternatives provide equivalent nutritional benefits.

While each of these items may have varying degrees of risk, adopting a more cautious approach to your diet could offer significant health benefits. So, the next time you reach for a drink or meal, remember the advice from Andrews and consider making a change for a healthier future!