AIIMS gastroenterologist shares 8 beverages that lower cancer risk

Cancer prevention is increasingly linked to everyday lifestyle choices, and what we drink plays a vital role in supporting our body’s natural defences. Dr Saurabh Sethi, a gastroenterologist trained at AIIMS, Harvard, and Stanford, shares that simple beverage choices can significantly impact cancer risk. In a post on Instagram, he highlights eight powerful drinks, ranging from green tea and coffee to pomegranate juice and herbal teas, that are rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, and anti-inflammatory compounds. Incorporating these beverages into daily routines, alongside a balanced diet and healthy habits, may help protect against various cancers and promote overall gut and metabolic health.

8 cancer-fighting drinks including green tea, coffee, and more

Green tea

Dr Sethi highlights green tea as a potent source of EGCG catechins, a type of polyphenol responsible for most of its health benefits. “Regular green tea drinkers have a 20–30% lower risk of breast and colorectal cancers,” he explains in his Instagram post. The gastroenterologist adds that its antioxidant properties help neutralise free radicals in the body, supporting cellular health and potentially reducing cancerous cell formation.

Coffee

According to Dr Sethi, coffee is rich in polyphenols and antioxidants that offer protective effects against liver and endometrial cancers. He notes in the post, “Every extra cup of coffee per day contributes to lowering the risk of liver cancer by almost 15%.” The gut specialist emphasises that moderate coffee consumption, particularly without excessive sugar or cream, can be part of a cancer-preventive lifestyle.

Water

Adequate hydration plays a crucial role in cancer prevention. Dr Sethi explains that drinking sufficient water daily helps dilute urinary carcinogens, which can reduce the risk of bladder cancer and other urinary tract-related issues. “Staying hydrated is not just for overall wellness; it directly helps the body eliminate potential toxins that may trigger disease,” he mentions in his Instagram clip.

Pomegranate juice is another beverage Dr Sethi recommends. Rich in ellagic acid and polyphenols, it may slow the growth of cancerous cells. “In prostate cancer patients, pomegranate juice slowed PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) doubling time,” he shares. The gastroenterologist explains that these compounds support the body’s antioxidant defence system, potentially reducing the progression of certain cancers.

Dr Sethi points to turmeric golden milk as a drink with anti-cancer properties due to curcumin. “Curcumin reduces DNA damage and inflammation. Human trials show reduced oxidative stress markers with daily turmeric,” he states in his post. He adds that incorporating turmeric into a daily routine, either through golden milk or other preparations, can provide both anti-inflammatory and cancer-protective benefits.

Berry smoothies

Berries are abundant in fibres and anthocyanins, flavonoid compounds responsible for their bright colours and linked to reduced cancer risk. Dr Sethi explains, “Diets rich in berries are linked to lower esophageal and colorectal cancer risk.” In his Instagram post, he adds that berry smoothies are an easy way to include these antioxidants in daily diets, supporting gut health and reducing oxidative stress.

Rich in vitamin C and flavonoids, lemon juice is associated with cancer prevention, according to Dr Sethi. “Citrus intake is linked with approximately 1–15% lower risk of stomach and esophageal cancers,” he mentions. However, he cautions that individuals with heartburn or acid reflux may experience aggravated symptoms, so moderation is key. Dr Sethi demonstrates in his post how lemon juice can be consumed safely as part of a balanced diet.

Herbal teas

Chamomile, ginger, and peppermint teas are packed with polyphenols and anti-inflammatory compounds. Dr Sethi points out that observational data suggests people who regularly consume herbal teas have a reduced risk of gastric and colorectal cancer. In the Instagram post, he recommends including at least one cup of herbal tea daily to support digestion, reduce inflammation, and potentially lower cancer risk.

Dr Sethi emphasises that while no single beverage can prevent cancer entirely, integrating these drinks into a balanced, healthy lifestyle may contribute to lowering cancer risk. “Simple, consistent choices like drinking green tea, coffee, pomegranate juice, or herbal teas can strengthen the body’s natural defences,” he concludes in his Instagram post. Alongside a nutritious diet, regular physical activity, and stress management, these beverages can form part of an effective preventive strategy against cancer.

Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or lifestyle change.

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