Cancer prevention begins with lifestyle choices. While exercise is important, diet and daily habits play an equally crucial role.
In a recent social media post, Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist trained at Harvard and Stanford Universities in the U.S., highlighted five drinks that may significantly reduce cancer risk.
Green Tea
Meta-analyses show that regular green tea consumption lowers the risk of several cancers, including breast, stomach, esophageal, colorectal, liver, and prostate cancer, according to the Hindustan Times.
Dr. Sethi explained that catechins in green tea are the key compounds behind its protective effects. Drinking green tea regularly can cut the risk of breast and colorectal cancer by 20–30%.
One study also revealed that even one cup of tea a day can reduce the risk of head and neck cancers by 9%, particularly in the lower throat.
Coffee
Dr. Sethi noted that coffee, rich in polyphenols and antioxidants, also plays a protective role. One cup per day lowers the risk of liver cancer by 15% and offers protection against endometrial cancer.
Research further suggests that 3–4 cups daily may reduce head and neck cancer risk by 17%, especially oral and pharyngeal cancers. Regular coffee drinking is also linked to a lower risk of prostate, mouth, colon, and skin cancers.
Coffee’s antioxidants help reduce DNA damage, fight inflammation, and may even encourage damaged cells to self-destruct—all of which contribute to lowering cancer risk.
Water
Staying hydrated is another simple but powerful tool. “Drinking enough water helps dilute substances that cause urinary tract cancer. Drinking more water helps reduce the risk of bladder cancer,” Dr. Sethi explained.
Studies show that women who drink five or more glasses of water a day (240 ml per glass) may lower their risk of colorectal cancer, while men may see similar benefits with four glasses. Another study found that women who drink at least four glasses a day reduce their colorectal cancer risk.
Lemon Water
Lemon juice, packed with vitamin C and flavonoids, is also beneficial. Dr. Sethi pointed out that citrus fruit consumption can cut the risk of stomach and esophageal cancers by 10–15%. Other research indicates lemon juice may also lower the risk of lung cancer.
Ginger Water
Herbal teas such as chamomile, ginger, and peppermint are rich in polyphenols and anti-inflammatory compounds. Observational studies suggest these teas may help reduce stomach, colorectal, and colon cancers.
Ginger, in particular, has demonstrated effectiveness against several gastrointestinal cancers, including stomach, pancreatic, liver, colorectal, and biliary tract cancers.
Other Beneficial Drinks
Dr. Sethi also highlighted additional cancer-fighting beverages. Pomegranate juice can help slow the growth of cancer cells, especially in prostate cancer. Berries, rich in antioxidants, have been linked to a lower risk of esophageal and colorectal cancers.