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Nichole Andrews, a Washington-based oncology dietitian and author, has garnered attention for her insights on how nutrition can influence cancer risk. In her viral TikTok video, which has gained over 2.9 million views, Andrews reveals seven foods and drinks that she advises people to avoid in order to reduce their chances of developing cancer or experiencing a recurrence. told by The NY Post.
“I know how amazing and powerful nutrition can be to help survivors have better treatment outcomes and reduce risk of recurrence,” Andrews said in the video. “Sadly, there is so much misinformation out there that people cannot eat well – so I am so happy to clear up that confusion and help people eat with confidence.”
1. Alcohol According to Andrews, alcohol tops the list of substances to avoid. “I do not consume any alcohol. All types of alcohol — including red wine — are going to increase your risk of six different cancers,” she stated. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) supports this claim, noting that alcohol can raise the risk of cancers in the mouth, throat, esophagus, colon, liver, and breast. Alcohol is metabolized into acetaldehyde, a chemical that can damage DNA, increasing cancer risk the more you drink.
2. Processed Meats Processed meats, such as pepperoni or pre-cooked varieties, are also on Andrews’ list. “Processed meats increase colorectal cancer risk at any consumption,” she explained. The World Health Organization classified processed meats as carcinogenic in 2015, linking them directly to colorectal cancer. The nitrates found in these meats may interact with compounds in the body to damage cells, heightening cancer risk.
3. Soda Soda is another drink Andrews avoids, especially when dining out. She opts for water or unsweetened iced tea, as sugary drinks can lead to excess calorie intake. “Excess body fat tissue can increase the risk of 13 different cancers,” Andrews noted. Even diet sodas are not a safer alternative, as artificial sweeteners like aspartame have been classified by the World Health Organization as “possibly carcinogenic to humans.”
4. Red Meat Red meat consumption in moderation is acceptable, but Andrews recommends limiting intake to no more than 18 ounces per week. “More than that has been associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer,” she shared. Red meat contains heme iron, which can promote the production of potentially carcinogenic chemicals.
5. Coffee Drinks While coffee can have health benefits, Andrews warns that sugary specialty coffee drinks can undo these advantages. She advises ordering kid-sized portions and asking for half-sweet options to cut down on sugar and calorie content. report from The Mirror.
6. White Grains Andrews is an advocate for whole grains over white grains. “Whole grains will help you reduce the risks of colon and breast cancer, and they’ll give you more fiber and nutrients because it’s less processed,” she explained. White grains lack the fiber and nutrients found in their whole-grain counterparts, making them a less beneficial option.
7. Plant-Based Milk Finally, Andrews prefers full-fat dairy over plant-based bowls of milk, citing the nutritional differences. “I don’t do the plant milks because they are so low in protein,” she said. Dairy is rich in calcium, which has been shown to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
With these recommendations, Andrews aims to provide clarity in a world where misinformation about diet and cancer risk is rampant, encouraging people to make informed choices for their health.
