Oncologists Say This Popular Air Fryer Mistake Could Increase Cancer Risk
AOL.com • • health
Key Points:
- A Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean or plant-based proteins is associated with a reduced risk of developing many cancers and may help survivors maintain remission.
- Cooking methods impact the cancer-protective qualities of foods; over-cooking or over-crisping, especially in air frying, can create harmful compounds like acrylamide, HCAs, and PAHs that are linked to increased cancer risk.
- These harmful compounds primarily form in overdone animal-based proteins and charred foods, potentially causing DNA damage and inflammation that may contribute to cancer development.
- Oncologists advise avoiding frequent consumption of over-crisped or burnt foods, recommending gentler cooking techniques such as braising, stewing, steaming, or sous-vide to preserve nutrients and minimize cancer risk.
- Occasional consumption of over-crisped food is unlikely to significantly increase cancer risk; balance and long-term dietary patterns are more important for cancer prevention.
