More than half of the human body is made up of water, and maintaining hydration is the foundation of a healthy lifestyle. But in addition to plain water, we consume dozens of other beverages daily. And not all of them are equally safe.
1. Alcohol
The link between alcohol consumption and cancer has long been reliably proven. This is especially true for tumors of the oral cavity, larynx, esophagus, liver, intestines, and breast. Ethanol is considered the main harmful factor.
Doctors recommend strictly limiting alcohol consumption: no more than one drink per day for women and no more than two for men.
2. Coffee
Unlike alcohol, black coffee without sugar or cream can have a positive effect on health. Studies have shown that regular coffee consumption lowers the risk of recurrence in people who have had colon cancer.
Scientists also note that coffee drinkers are less likely to develop liver and endometrial cancer. Thanks to its antioxidants, coffee has also been linked to a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease.
3. Green Tea
Green tea is rich in catechins, potent antioxidants. In laboratory studies, they can slow tumor cell growth and prevent tumor spread.
However, doctors emphasize that green tea is not a cancer treatment and should not be considered a replacement for therapy.
4. Energy Drinks
While no direct link has been established between energy drinks and cancer, their regular consumption raises other serious concerns. High caffeine and sugar content can lead to heart problems, seizures, and heart rhythm disturbances.
Experts recommend limiting energy drinks to no more than one serving per day or avoiding them altogether.
5. Sports Drinks
These drinks themselves are not considered carcinogenic. However, they are high in sugar and fast carbohydrates. If a person doesn’t engage in intense exercise, excess calories quickly lead to weight gain and obesity—a risk factor for many diseases, including cancer.
6. Soda
Dark sodas use caramel coloring, which contains 4-MEI. Studies have shown that it can increase the risk of cancer.
7. Bottled Water
It’s not the water itself that’s causing concern, but the plastic used to make the bottles. In particular, bisphenol-A (BPA), a substance that can affect the hormonal system, is a concern.
Animal experiments have shown that even small doses of BPA can harm the reproductive system and increase the risk of breast and prostate cancer.
National and international cancer organizations are increasingly emphasizing that lifestyle factors play a significant role in cancer prevention. What we drink every day is just as important as what we eat.