According to recent medical studies, certain familiar flavors in our daily meals may unintentionally become the ideal "lifeline" for cancer cells.

Our eating habits not only affect our appearance but also directly influence the risk of chronic diseases, especially cancer. Alarming research shows that some of the most common flavors in our diet actually nurture cancer cells. What's more concerning is that many people, especially in Vietnam, consume these flavors daily without realizing they are "feeding" cancer.

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1. Rich, Greasy Flavor from Oily Foods: A Trigger for Inflammation and Abnormal Cells

Fried dishes like grilled pork belly, french fries, and crispy fried chicken are loved by both kids and adults. However, according to the Chinese Institute of Medical Research (May 2024), diets high in saturated fat not only disrupt metabolism but also weaken the immune system — creating the perfect condition for cancer cells to grow silently.

High-fat diets alter gut microbiota, causing the release of amino acids that stimulate immunosuppressive T cells, thereby reducing the body's ability to destroy mutated cells. Over time, this leads to chronic inflammation and tumor formation.

Nutrition expert Dr. Duong Hao (Shanghai) recommends limiting fat intake to no more than 25g per day. Instead of frying, opt for healthier cooking methods like steaming, boiling, or stewing to protect gut health and reduce toxin accumulation.

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2. Strong Sweetness from Refined Sugar: A “Fuel” for Breast, Liver, and Pancreatic Cancer

Refined sugars — found in candies, soda, and bubble tea — are fast becoming cancer cells’ “best friends.” Epidemiological studies in the U.S. and Europe confirm a strong link between high sugar consumption and an increased risk of breast, liver, and pancreatic cancer.

A 2022 study published in Current Developments in Nutrition revealed that women who drank more than one sugary beverage per day had a 78% higher risk of developing liver cancer compared to non-consumers. Sugar not only increases the risk of insulin resistance (a major cause of diabetes) but also fuels inflammation and hormonal disorders, providing fertile ground for abnormal cell growth.

One cup of bubble tea or a can of soda may contain 30–50g of sugar — far exceeding the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommendation of no more than 25g per day.

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3. Strong Salty Flavor from Salt and Pickled Foods: A Silent Destroyer of the Stomach

While rich and sweet flavors appeal to the younger generation, salty foods are deeply ingrained in traditional Vietnamese meals. Dishes like braised fish, caramelized meat, and pickled vegetables are familiar but are now being flagged as major contributors to stomach cancer.

According to the “Digestive Cancer Prevention Guidelines” released by the Chinese Anti-Cancer Association in 2023, a high-salt diet can damage the stomach lining and promote the growth of Helicobacter pylori — a bacteria directly linked to gastric tumors.

A meta-analysis of 26 international studies shows that people with high salt intake have a 25% higher risk of stomach cancer than those with lower salt consumption. Asians, in particular, are more vulnerable due to cultural dietary preferences.

WHO recommends no more than 5g of salt daily (about one teaspoon). However, actual consumption in Vietnam often doubles or even triples this limit.

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Healthy Eating to Prevent Cancer: Golden Guidelines to Follow

To proactively prevent cancer, health experts recommend a balanced, health-focused diet:

• Increase vegetables and fresh fruits: At least 400g/day for fiber and antioxidants

• Choose healthy fats: Like those in salmon, avocado, and olive oil to reduce inflammation and protect cells

• Opt for lean protein: From white meat, soy, eggs, and low-fat dairy instead of processed meats

• Limit grilled, fried, and smoked foods: These produce carcinogenic compounds like acrylamide and nitrosamine

• Drink green tea daily: Polyphenols in tea help suppress cell mutations

• Control salt, sugar, and oil intake: The closer to WHO recommendations, the lower the cancer risk

Although no one can completely eliminate the risk of cancer, managing your diet is one of the most effective early prevention strategies. Identifying and reducing the three “favorite” flavors of cancer cells — fatty, overly sweet, and overly salty — is a crucial step toward long-term health for you and your loved ones.