NEW YORK, Dec 30: A prominent nutritionist has revealed that two specific foods are the main culprits when it comes to increasing the risk of cancer. Nichole Andrews, a registered dietitian nutritionist and known as "the oncology dietician" online, says that while many foods are often blamed for cancer risks, only alcohol and processed meats should be avoided to reduce the chances of developing the disease.

Andrews, who specializes in oncology and has worked with thousands of cancer survivors, clarified that "processed meats" refer to pre-cooked or preserved meats such as hot dogs, deli meats, and sausages. Additionally, she emphasized that all types of alcohol, including red wine, fall into the category of cancer risk factors.

In a post on her Instagram feed, Andrews addressed common misconceptions about other foods that are often linked to cancer, such as sugar. She explained, "Sugar alone will not cause cancer or make it grow faster." Instead, she pointed out that a high-sugar diet leads to excess calorie intake, which can cause weight gain and increase fat tissue. This excess fat tissue, she explained, is what raises cancer risk, not sugar itself.

"Fat tissue is the key driver of cancer," she added. "Excess fat tissue is linked to 13 types of cancer, including breast and colorectal. Fat tissue causes inflammation and hormone imbalances that fuel cancer risk." Andrews emphasized that it's not necessary to eliminate sugar from one's diet completely. Instead, she advised focusing on reducing fat tissue by maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and building muscle, which helps lower cancer risk.

Cancer Research UK supports Andrews' findings. The organization confirms that processed meat is a proven cause of cancer, much like tobacco and alcohol. It also notes that there is no evidence suggesting that a sugar-free diet can lower cancer risk or improve survival chances once diagnosed with the disease.

Processed meats, which include items like some sausages such as salami and hot dogs, are preserved using chemicals like nitrates and nitrites. These chemicals, when consumed, can convert into harmful compounds called N-nitroso chemicals (NOCs) that can damage cells in the bowel and contribute to the development of bowel cancer.

Andrews concluded that moderation is key. "A cookie or slice of cake won’t hurt your health—balance is key!"