THE ROLE OF NUTRITION IN OBESITY AND ITS INFLUENCE ON THE DEVELOPMENT OF CANCER

Abstract

This article sought to analyze, through a literature review, the role of diet in obesity and the development of cancer. Diet plays a crucial role in obesity and cancer development. Diets rich in ultra-processed foods, sugars, and saturated fats, combined with low intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, promote hypertrophy of white adipose tissue, chronic inflammation, and hormonal and metabolic changes, such as insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and increased IGF-1. These factors contribute to greater cell proliferation and reduced apoptosis, favoring carcinogenesis, especially in hormone-dependent tumors such as breast and endometrial tumors. On the other hand, balanced diets, such as the Mediterranean diet, with high consumption of vegetables, fruits, fish, and nuts, and restriction of processed meats and saturated fats, have a protective effect, reducing inflammatory markers and improving the metabolic profile. It is concluded that a combination of healthy eating, weight maintenance, physical activity, and moderate alcohol consumption constitutes an effective strategy for preventing cancer and promoting population health.