New study links alcohol, processed meats and obesity to stomach cancers

Late last month, the American Institute for Cancer Research and World Cancer Research Fund released a report providing evidence that links alcohol, processed meat and obesity to stomach cancers. All three lifestyle factors have been linked to colon and breast cancer among others, but according to NBC News, this is the first time they've been linked to stomach cancer.

The research

The report, Diet, Nutrition Physical Activity and Stomach Cancer, showed that drinking three or more alcoholic drinks every day increases the risk of developing stomach cancers. Eating 1.8 ounces of processed meats every day increases one's risk by 18 percent and being obese showed a 23 percent increase in developing cardia stomach cancer. The researchers analyzed 89 global studies that examined stomach cancer, diet, physical activity and weight - this was the first review performed since 2007. There were 17.5 million adults analyzed in the studies and 77,000 of those were diagnosed with stomach cancers.

The results

What the researchers found may be unsettling - there are approximately one million new cancer cases each year worldwide, which makes it the No. 5 most common cancer. Because the evidence gathered linked stomach cancer to alcohol, processed meats and obesity, the researchers reported that about 4,000 stomach cancer cases in the U.S. alone could easily be prevented if more people made healthy lifestyle changes. Dr. Alice Bender, head of nutrition programs at AICR, said the result of this research should be alarming and motivate people to be more proactive about a healthy lifestyle.

“This report is a real wake-up call,”

she said.

“Obesity is now linked to eleven types of cancer and we want Americans to know there are steps everyone can take for cancer prevention and better health, like eating more vegetables, beans, fruits and other plant foods along with squeezing in a few more steps every day.”

Follow the Hallelujah Diet

Unfortunately, the American Society of Clinical Oncology estimated that 10,730 deaths in the U.S. will occur this year due to stomach cancer. In order to reduce your chances of developing this disease, AICR strongly suggested removing alcohol and processed meats from your diet to help maintain a healthy weight. But making healthy choices in your diet doesn't only reduce your risk of developing cancer, it can also boost your energy levels, strengthen your immune system and restore your health to ensure you live a longer, more fulfilling life. The Hallelujah Diet recommends eating a diet that is rich in raw fruits and vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts and seeds. If you're not sure how to jumpstart your new and improved lifestyle, check out the Get Started Guide. It shows you exactly which foods you should be eating and which ones you are suggested to avoid. By simply eating a healthier diet, you can rejuvenate your body back to its self-healing ways.