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5 unexpected things that may increase one’s cancer risk

The incidences of cancer have been estimated at 442.4 per 1,00,000 men and women in the country. This health condition has emerged as a major cause of concern. However, interventions for cancer are becoming more advanced and successful. Following a prescribed treatment course and making some lifestyle changes can help in the symptom management of cancer. But here are some things you probably never knew could increase one’s risk for this disease.

Chimneys
Chimney sweeping results in exposure to large volumes of soot and dust. Ingestion of wood fumes, coal, and other burnt substances have been found to cause scrotal skin cancer or scrotal carcinoma, now commonly called as Pott’s cancer. Historically, children, particularly young boys, were ordered to clean chimneys due to their petite sizes. The prevalence of chimney sweep cancer among these children led to the discovery of this cancer type by doctor Percivall Pott in London in 1775.

Hair straighteners
According to recent studies the use of hair straighteners and relaxers may increase women’s susceptibility to uterine cancer. Moreover, it suggested that women of African descent may be at higher risk for this type of cancer than others.

Scented candles
Scented candles are often the ideal props to set up the perfect romantic dinner or date night. However, studies have found that scented candles emit certain cancer-causing chemicals like formaldehyde and benzene. Although occasional burning of scented candles is unlikely to trigger cancer, repeated exposure to these candles in poorly ventilated spaces can increase one’s susceptibility to bladder cancer.

Grilled foods
Cooking over high flame releases heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). These elements are carcinogens that may increase one’s risk for cancer. The grilling process as well as grilled foods can contribute to cancer; therefore, one should limit the intake of grilled foods and protect one’s skin from carcinogens by wearing appropriate clothing while grilling.

Extremely hot beverages
It has been found that having piping-hot beverages, such as those above 65° Celsius, can increase one’s vulnerability to esophageal cancer (EC). In such cases, EC is typically triggered by thermal injury caused to the esophageal mucosa. It’s advisable to allow all beverages to cool down to room temperature before drinking them.

In some cases, lawsuits have also been filed against such household products that increase one’s risk of developing cancer. Thus, consumers must be vigilant while purchasing products, looking for safer alternatives to ensure overall well-being.

Hyperkalemia – 10 foods to avoid

Potassium plays a huge role in the health of our heart muscles and nerve cells. And high levels of this element in the blood cause hyperkalemia. If you consume meals high in potassium, your doctor may advise you to decrease portion sizes and concentrate on fruits and vegetables with a lower potassium content. Here is a list of foods rich in potassium that must be avoided if you have hyperkalemia. Yogurt and dairy products A serving of nonfat yogurt weighing eight ounces has roughly 625 mg of potassium, making it one of the dairy aisle's highestÂ sources of potassium. Even reduced fat milk contains 366 mg of potassium in a glass of cow's whole milk. Ricotta and cottage cheese are also high in potassium. Goat cheese is a low potassium food, proving that not all cheeses are made equal. Likewise, About 131 milligrams of potassium may be found in a half cup of vanilla ice cream. Bananas When people consider foods high in potassium, bananas frequently come to mind. A banana normally contains 422 mg of potassium. Among all the fruit, bananas are athletes' favorite as they provide energy. However, it could be highly dangerous for someone suffering from hyperkalemia. Consult your doctor if you have hyperkalemia and stick to fruits such as apples and berries. Leafy vegetables About 420 milligrams of potassium can be found in only a half cup of cooked spinach. Raw spinach, young or mature, has roughly 167 mg per cup. Fennel, bok choy, beet greens, and Swiss chard are also high in potassium. You can opt for kale instead. Kale has more nutrients than these other dark leafy greens, but it has less potassium. 73 mg is present in one cup of raw kale. Fish Clams, which provide 534 mg of potassium in just 3 ounces, are the finest source of protein from seafood. Around three ounces of skipjack tuna offers 444 mg, another major source of potassium. One of the most popular fish, salmon, frequently has a lower potassium content. Keeping a check on what type of fish you are eating if you have hyperkalemia is a must. Kidney beans Beans are a balanced addition to any meal plan as they're rich sources of protein and fiber. However, according to data from the USDA, one cup of the kidney-shaped type has 713 mg of potassium. A half-cup of black beans has 489 mg of potassium. Avocado This creamy, green-fleshed fruit is packed with 690 mg of potassium and is high in fiber and heart-healthy lipids. Although it might seem good for your heart, you should avoid it if you have hyperkalemia. Potatoes Potassium is heavily concentrated in potatoes; 925 milligrams of potassium may be found in a baked potato. A three-ounce portion of french-fried potatoes has 470 mg of potassium and a lot of fat and calories. The potassium content in an ounce of potato chips is 465 mg. Indulging in fast foods like fries is adverse for those with hyperkalemia. Oranges A single orange has 240 mg of potassium, making it a food with a high potassium content. With 450 mg per 8 oz glass, orange juice is a more potent source of potassium. Fruits vary in their potassium content. Berries are a poor source of potassium and can be a decent substitute for oranges and orange juice. Another good option is apples. Dried fruits The nutrients in fruit, including potassium, that have been dried are concentrated. You get roughly 750 milligrams from half a cup of dried apricots. Also, even though raisins and dried plums make a fantastic snack, they should be avoided by someone with hyperkalemia. Legumes and beans Legumes are a significant source of potassium as well. White beans have the most, with 600 mg of potassium in a half cup. In half a cup serving, other legumes such as lima beans and pinto beans have between 300 and 350 mg.

7 food sources that adversely impact hearing

Organs in the body rely on a delicate balance of nutritional food intake and supplements to support peak performance. Sensory organs, especially the ears, are at a high risk of losing optimal function due to certain changes in daily foods and beverages. Some foods may not directly impact or trigger hearing loss. But deficiencies can certainly increase the risk of health complications that eventually affect hearing. Here are seven food sources that negatively influence hearing abilities. Foods rich in sodium Smoked, canned, and frozen cuts of meat, processed or prepackaged breads, grains, snacks, chips, and all other condiments used in cooking are all rich in sodium. Research shows that excess sodium intake increases blood pressure, restricts blood vessels, and lowers the blood flow to the cochlea (the part that converts sound into nerve impulses). These symptoms increase the risk of hearing loss associated with tinnitus and Meniereâs disease. Processed foods Salty chips, fried foods, ready-to-eat meals, packaged snacks, tinned vegetables, microwavable recipes, cakes, biscuits, and bread are commonly consumed as processed foods. These are loaded with saturated fats, trans fats, additives, artificial flavorings, colorings, and preservatives. Studies show excess intake of processed foods can lower hearing efficiency by 39% among adults. Foods rich in refined sugar Candies, cookies, pastries, pies, baked goods, confectionaries, sweet rolls, desserts, and even soft drinks are all foods and beverages that contain refined sugars. Intake of excess sugar increases the risk of diabetes and triggers an imbalance in blood glucose levels. Studies show how high blood sugar can damage the blood vessels and nerves inside the ear. Due to this damage, the brain will not be able to send and receive signals efficiently, causing impairment in hearing abilities. Gluten rich foods Gluten is a natural protein found in common grains like wheat, barley, and rye. These grains are used for baking breads, making pastas, cereals, and several other baked foods. However, people with gluten intolerance cannot digest this protein and, as a result, develop a reaction. Gluten intolerance triggers swelling, congestion, and fluid buildup in the ears, triggering temporary hearing loss. Refined carbohydrates White bread, pasta, pizza dough, pastries, white flour, white rice, and many types of sweet desserts are foods rich in refined carbohydrates. This imbalance can cause insulin resistance to affect the blood vessels in the ear. High insulin levels also affect the way sound is processed and converted into electrical signals for the brain to process. The risk is elevated with existing ear problems, including tinnitus and Meniereâs disease. Fatty meats Deli meat cuts like sausages, bacon, salami, and hot dogs are laced with additives and preservatives to improve shelf life. Further, curing, salting, and smoking regular cuts of beef, pork, and lamb increase the risk of diseases that affect blood pressure and blood sugar levels. This, in turn, increases the risk of hearing impairment triggered by associated symptoms of such health complications. Dairy products Dairy intake does not directly impact hearing. However, it is advisable to cut back on full-fat milk, heavy cream cheese, and other processed cheese or dairy products bought off the shelves in the supermarket. Including such fatty foods and beverages in daily meals increases body mass index (BMI). Several studies indicate an unhealthy increase in BMI increases the risk of hearing loss by 25% among adults.