“Christmas Bread”© by 42Jules, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0
It is quite common to see burnt or charred portions when toasting and grilling food. Some may find it appetizing, while others will find it revolting. These burnt bits are carcinogens, substances that promote the growth of cancer in your body. Burnt food is not the only type of carcinogens that exist. The most common carcinogens that many people consume are tobacco, alcohol, and processed foods. There are many other carcinogens, but aren’t as harmful.
Carcinogens affect the human body by causing mutations in the DNA and genomes that are in your body. When these mutations develop, tumours develop. Carcinogens can also increase cell division, which overloads the cell division processes, increasing the chance of overlooked mutations.
Currently, there are only a little over 100 carcinogens known to harm humans, but new carcinogens are being discovered everyday. However, scientists and governments are working to identify these carcinogens from our food systems. Nevertheless, the government cannot stop society from consuming carcinogens, and the responsibility lies in your own hands. A regulated diet and healthy lifestyle greatly reduces the chance of carcinogens entering the body, and increases cancer and mutation elimination.
While carcinogens do increase the chance of developing cancer, don’t let it frighten you. They are a natural part of our environment and you consume them regularly without noticing it. The only thing you should do is avoid consuming large amounts of carcinogens in your lifestyle.
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