Cancer Support - Causes and Risk Factors: Nutrition, Food Preparation and Inflammation Flashcards
(14 cards)
How do refined carbohydrates contribute to cancer?
They cause hyperinsulinaemia and hyperglycaemia, increasing IGF-1, which promotes proliferation and inhibits apoptosis.
What is the Warburg effect?
Cancer cells preferentially use aerobic glycolysis, converting glucose to lactate even in the presence of oxygen.
How does chronic excess calorie intake increase cancer risk?
It increases oestrogen, insulin, IGF-1, leptin and inflammation, while reducing adiponectin.
How does inflammation contribute to cancer development?
It supports proliferation, survival, migration, angiogenesis, and activates NF-κB.
What is the role of NF-κB in cancer?
A transcription factor activated by stress and inflammation, promoting tumour progression.
How does the Western diet contribute to cancer?
It increases LPS, reduces fibre and polyphenols, and promotes oxidative stress and dysbiosis.
What is the recommended omega-6 to omega-3 ratio?
1:1 to 2:1 — Western diets typically have 15:1 to 16:1, which promotes cancer.
How does vitamin D reduce cancer risk?
By regulating the cell cycle, inducing apoptosis, promoting differentiation, and being anti-inflammatory.
What is the cancer risk associated with aspartame?
Classified as a Group 2B carcinogen in 2023, with links to liver cancer.
How does dairy intake influence cancer risk?
Dairy contains IGF-1, which promotes cell proliferation and is linked to cancers like liver, breast, and lymphoma.
What are the risks of high-temperature cooking methods?
Grilling/frying produce HCAs and PAHs, increasing cancer risk, especially colon cancer.
What are N-nitroso compounds and their source?
Carcinogenic compounds formed from nitrites in processed meats, especially when cooked at high heat.
What is acrylamide and how is it formed?
A potential carcinogen formed in starchy foods cooked at >120°C, e.g., chips, bread, cereals.
Which foods are key sources of acrylamide?
Crisps, chips, crackers, biscuits, commercial cereals, bread, coffee.
