Many factors are linked to our chances of getting a disease like cancer. Genetics, eating habits, exercise and tobacco use are all risk factors. But are there foods that we should avoid to help deter this devastating disease?

Shayna Komar, a licensed and registered dietitian at Thomas F. Chapman Family Cancer Wellness at Piedmont, recommends these basic guidelines to steer clear of cancer-causing foods:

1. Processed foods - Food processing may alter foods in ways that affect cancer risk. An example is the refining of grains, which greatly lowers the amount of fiber and other compounds that may reduce cancer risk. The processing of meat by adding preservatives such as salt or sodium nitrite to prevent the growth of germs or smoking the meat to preserve or enhance color and flavor may add compounds that increase the potential of these foods to cause cancer.

2. Sugary foods - Sugar feeds every cell in our body, even cancer cells. While research shows that eating sugar does not necessarily lead to cancer, its impact on your waistline may increase your risk for cancer and other chronic conditions, like diabetes. High-sugar diets also increase inflammation in your body, and chronic inflammation is fuel for many diseases, including cancer.

3. High-fat foods - Butter, whole milk, sour cream, ice cream, whole yogurts and red meat are examples of foods high in animal fat, which contain harmful saturated fats. Fats are necessary for overall health and body function, but unsaturated fats such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats are healthier choices. Some studies have linked various cancers to a high-fat diet, especially diets that include red meat and full-fat dairy products.

4. Fried foods - High-carbohydrate foods prepared at elevated temperatures may contain a cancer-causing chemical called acrylamide. Studies have shown that large consumption of acrylamide may cause health problems, including damage to the nervous system and increased risk of cancer. Plus, fried foods have substantially more calories and fat than baked foods.

5. Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) - Although there is no conclusive evidence, GMOs have been linked to cancer. Some animal studies have indicated serious health risks, including cancer, infertility, immune problems, accelerated aging, faulty insulin regulations, as well as changes to major organs and the gastrointestinal system. 

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