Raw Diets & Cancer

The raw food diet is a vegan diet that only allows consumption of uncooked foods. Followers of the raw food diet believe that cooking foods leaches vitamins and nutrients from them and destroys healthful enzymes. They claim to enjoy improved energy, vibrant skin and overall improved health. Little research has been conducted on the raw food diet and its impact on illnesses such as cancer. Characteristics of the diet have been investigated, however, and can help form a picture of the potential impact a raw food diet may have on cancer.

Red Meat

The raw food diet is usually a vegan diet, meaning that animal products including red meat, dairy and eggs are not consumed. According to an article published in the 1994 issue of the journal "Cancer Research," consuming red meat increases risk of developing colon cancer. A 2006 article published in the journal "The Archives of Internal Medicine" showed that women who consumed 1.5 or more servings of red meat per day were at higher risk for developing estrogen-positive and progesterone-positive breast cancer than women who consumed three or fewer servings per day. The American Cancer society recommends limiting red meat intake to reduce your risk of endometrial, colon, pancreatic and prostate cancers.

Cooking

Some supporters tout the health benefits of the raw diet because cooking may produce carcinogens, substances that can cause cancer if ingested regularly. A 2007 study by Dr. Janneke Hogervorst of the Maastricht University in the Netherlands found a link between acrylamide and ovarian and endometrial cancer. Acrylamide is classified as a potential carcinogen and is produced when carbohydrates like potatoes are cooked at a temperature of more than 250 degrees Fahrenheit.

Fruits and Vegetables

Five to 10 percent of cancers may be attributed to low fruit and vegetable consumption, according to a 2003 report by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. The Cancer Council of Australia advises that consuming fruits and vegetables may help to prevent cancer by preventing obesity, a condition that increases your risk for multiple types of cancer. Fruits and vegetables also provide fiber, vitamins and minerals that are crucial for healthy bodily functions.

Considerations

Cancer risk is determined by genetics as well as lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, cigarette smoking and alcohol consumption. The American Cancer Society advises leading a healthy, active lifestyle to decrease your risk of cancer. Consult your doctor before beginning a raw diet or if you are concerned about your risk of developing cancer.