Unexpected carcinogenic products that can endanger your family

For those who may not know, carcinogens are things that have the potential to cause cancer. These can be substances in the air, products used topically, or chemicals in common foods or drinks.

We may all initially think that cigarettes are the main cause of cancer. But there are other things, including the food we eat, that can later lead to cancer.

Processed meat

Salami, sausage, boerewors, pepperoni and bacon are just a few of the culprits. Any processed meat that contains preservatives and flavorings can increase your risk of colon cancer. Limit your consumption of cured, fermented or smoked meats.

asbestos

Asbestos is commonly found in roof and ceiling tiles, as well as certain car parts. When these fibers break loose and are inhaled, they can become lodged in the lungs and become carcinogenic. For this reason, asbestos has been banned in South Africa since 2008. However, if your home was built before that date and you suspect that your tiles or roof may contain asbestos, contact a building contractor to have it removed.

Golden brown foods

Acrylamide is a chemical that is created when foods are heated at high temperatures. According to the FDA, acrylamide can be created when you fry, boil or bake, and it is mainly found in plant-based foods like potatoes, so be careful with chips, chips and hash browns. It can also be found in grain products like cookies, cereal and toast, and even coffee.

Pro tip: Bake, roast and fry plant and grain products until they are light brown instead of golden brown.

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Furniture

This is really unusual! A chemical called formaldehyde is found in plywood or even in fabrics commonly used for furniture. Studies on rats have shown that the mere presence of formaldehyde can cause cancer.

Pro tip: Use a humidifier to circulate fresh air in your home and keep humidity to a minimum.

Skin contact

Skin treatments that use UV rays on exposed skin, such as tanning beds, UV light therapy, phototherapy, and more, increase the risk of skin cancer. UV lamps used to dry gel nails contain the same UV radiation. Most skin cancers are caused by exposure to UV rays. Prolonged exposure to the sun can have the same effect.

Pro tip: Wear sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. Before a gel nail treatment, apply sunscreen or wear fingerless gloves.

alcohol

Alcohol has been linked to breast, colon and liver cancer. This is due to the carcinogenic chemicals produced during the production of beer, liquor or wine.

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