Research suggests that hot drinks may increase your risk of cancer. With winter approaching, it may be tempting to run the kettle more often. Whether you prefer herbal teas or a cup of coffee, it may be helpful to keep an eye on the temperature of the beverage. Experts state that consuming very hot drinks frequently can be very harmful.
Triggers Aesophageal Cancer
Esophageal cancer is defined as the abnormal growth of cells anywhere in the esophagus. Anything with a temperature higher than 50 degrees can injure the skin by burning it. If it is in contact with a temperature above 70 degrees, you will burn instantly. Coffee that boils at almost 100 degrees is hot enough to cause severe burns on the skin and especially the sensitive cells lining the esophagus.
TRIPLE THE RISK
The research, published in the journal Clinical Nutrition, also warns that hot beverages can almost triple the risk of this cancer. Experts emphasize that the risk of esophageal cancer increases by 2.8 in those who drink coffee and tea regularly. Those who drank hot or very hot coffee had an increased risk of esophageal cancer by 5.5 and 4.1, respectively.
Beverages can increase gastroesophageal reflux and increase esophageal inflammation, both of which can increase the risk of developing cancer. He explains that very hot drinks damage esophageal tissue and signal your body that it’s time to heal. However, the faster and more often your body produces new cells to heal, the more room there is for “genetic errors” such as abnormal cells or cancer cells.