13. The Impact of Nutrition: The Unexplored Connection Between Diet and Basal-Cell Carcinoma
An area often overlooked in discussions about basal-cell carcinoma is the potential impact of nutrition on the disease’s onset and progression. Though research is in its infancy, emerging studies hint that diet may play a role, albeit an indirect one, in developing this type of skin cancer.
Take antioxidants, for example. These naturally occurring substances have long been lauded for their cancer-fighting properties. Some research suggests that a diet rich in antioxidants might lower the risk of basal-cell carcinoma, although the evidence is far from conclusive. Still, the idea is intriguing, sparking interest among medical professionals and researchers alike.
Conversely, some foods could potentially elevate the risk. Diets high in processed foods and sugars are under investigation for their role in various types of cancers, including skin cancers like basal-cell carcinoma. Though far from being proven, the theories present a fascinating avenue for future research. (13)