Stomach cancer, also called gastric cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the stomach. Symptoms of the disease include dark stool, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting. Eating a healthy and well-rounded diet can possibly reduce your chance of developing the disease. Speak to your doctor about any concerns you have of your diet putting you at risk for stomach cancer.
Expert Insight
According to a 2009 study performed by the Catalan Institute for Oncology in Barcelona, eating a Mediterranean diet protects against stomach cancer. Researchers found that participants who ate a Mediterranean diet were 33 percent less likely to develop stomach cancer. A Mediterranean diet consists of fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, fish, nuts, seeds and whole grains. Dairy and red meat are very limited in the eating plan.
Considerations
You are at a higher risk of getting stomach cancer if you consume foods that have not been prepared or stored properly. Wash your hands before food preparation and cook all meats to the proper temperature. Check internal temperatures with a meat thermometer. Refrigerate and freeze foods that require this type of storage. Look at expiration dates and toss out foods that have spoiled.
Types
Avoid eating foods that have been smoked if you want to reduce your risk of stomach cancer. Instead of eating smoked and grilled meats and other food items, prepare foods in a healthier manner. Preferred cooking methods include steaming, baking, boiling and sauteing with olive oil.
Prevention/Solution
Reduce your sodium intake in order to prevent stomach cancer. Foods high in salt to avoid include lunch meats, canned vegetables, processed frozen meals, chips, table salt, bacon and soy sauce. Instead of using salt to flavor your food, you should add in herbs and other spices for seasoning.
