Cancer is a general term that includes a group of diseases characterized by the rapid multiplication of malignant cells, and despite significant gains in cancer research, health authorities stress that the focus must remain on prevention, and it is believed that some foods, such as salt, double the risk of developing one type of cancer. .
A study that looked at the eating, drinking and smoking habits of more than 40,000 Japanese over an 11-year period found that salt had an effect on stomach cancer risk. Of 358 cases of stomach cancer among 18,684 men, the double risk occurred among those with the highest salt intake, which is estimated to consume 12 to 15 grams of salt per day.
“In addition to salt intake, our study also shows that smoking and low consumption of fruits and vegetables increase the risk of stomach cancer, especially in men,” said study leader Shoichiro Tsugani.
Health risks associated with salt intake in general include cardiovascular disease, such as high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke, because salt intake causes water to decrease, forcing the heart to work harder.
But the study indicated that people who constantly eat high-salt diets can double their risk of stomach cancer as well, with Tim Kay, an epidemiologist working at Cancer Research UK, said the association between stomach cancer is especially strong with eating fish. Salted pickles and pickles that contain a high percentage of salt.
Initial symptoms of stomach cancer include persistent indigestion, heartburn, bloating, and frequent belching. A feeling of extreme fullness following meals may also be indicative of the disease. In more advanced stages, patients may experience blood in the stool, loss of appetite, and unexplained weight loss.
Disadvantages of consuming too much salt
Excess salt increases the risk of stomach cancer