Diet and Cancer Risk

Posted by Robin on April 24, 2010 at 17:38 pm

While research on the health benefits of tart cherries is ongoing, the link between some common life-threatening diseases and diet is strong and well documented. Eating a healthful diet and being physically active can reduce cancer risks, according to the American Cancer Society. Evidence suggests that one-third of the 550,000 cancer deaths in the United States each year are a result of unhealthy diet and lack of physical activity.

The American Institute for Cancer Research recommends a plant-based diet of fruits (including cherries), vegetables, whole grains and legumes. A low-fat diet that includes at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily can decrease the overall incidence of cancer by 20 percent, according to the Institute.

The case is even stronger with colorectal cancer, for which the main causes are believed to be diet and related factors. Research suggests that up to 50 percent of the colorectal cancers could be prevented by diets high in fruits and vegetables and low in fat.