Stomach Cancer: Cancer cases have risen rapidly worldwide. Let us explain what lifestyle changes you need to make to avoid stomach cancer.

Symptoms of stomach cancer

Stomach Cancer Symptoms: Stomach cancer has become a serious health problem worldwide. Millions of people are affected by this disease every year. Although genetic factors and environmental factors also play a role, doctors believe that diet and lifestyle have the greatest impact on stomach health and cancer risk. Making small changes to our diet and habits can improve digestion, boost immunity, and reduce the risk of cancer in the long run.

Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a trained gastroenterologist from AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford, recently shared four simple and effective ways to reduce your risk of stomach cancer in an Instagram post. His advice includes a healthy diet, gut-friendly habits, avoiding processed meats, and testing for bacterial infections like Helicobacter pylori. These steps not only improve gut health but also strengthen the body from within and make it more capable of fighting cancer.

Include cruciferous vegetables in your diet

Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, and kale are considered highly beneficial for cancer prevention. The natural compound sulforaphane found in them detoxifies the body, improves liver function, and reduces oxidative stress, which can cause cancer. According to Dr. Sethi, including these vegetables regularly in your diet, whether boiled, roasted, or lightly sautéed, improves digestion, immunity, and gut health. The vitamin C, K, and folate present in them help the body fight infections and diseases.

Make garlic an essential part of your diet

Garlic has always been considered a superfood. The allicin found in it is rich in anti-cancer and antibacterial properties. According to Dr. Sethi, garlic protects the inner lining of the stomach, kills harmful bacteria, and helps prevent infections like H. pylori. It can be easily added to everyday meals, such as soups, vegetables, stir-fries, or salads. Raw garlic has the highest concentration of allicin, but its benefits remain even when cooked lightly. Regular consumption not only enhances food's flavor but also provides natural protection for the stomach.

Stay away from processed meats

Processed meats like bacon, sausage, hot dogs, and deli meats contain chemicals called nitrates and nitrites, which increase the risk of stomach cancer. Excessive consumption of these increases inflammation in the digestive tract and can damage cells. According to Dr. Sethi, replace these with chicken, fish, pulses, or plant-based proteins. Cook fresh meat at home and avoid overcooked or burnt meat, as these release cancer-causing compounds.

Get tested for Helicobacter pylori.

H. pylori is a bacterium that causes infection in the inner lining of the stomach and can be a major cause of gastritis, ulcers, and stomach cancer. If you experience frequent stomach pain, gas, indigestion, nausea, or burning, it could be a sign of an H. pylori infection. Dr. Sethi advises getting tested early and, if necessary, seeking treatment from a doctor. This infection is treatable with antibiotics and acid-suppressing medications. Maintaining cleanliness, avoiding dirty water, and undercooked food from outside are also important.