Eating to Help Ward Off Cancer

The Cancer Research Foundation of America says that 35 percent of all cancers may be linked to diet. Are you doing all you can to eat healthy?

"To get the best cancer protection, variety is key," says Karen Huntzinger, a registered dietitian at Salem Hospital. Here's why it's important to include the following foods in your diet.

Low-fat foods-A low-fat diet helps you stay trim and decreases your chances for cancer.

Karen Huntzinger, R.D.

Fruits and vegetables-They contain nutrients such as antioxidants and carotenoids, which may help your body resist and fi ght cancers. Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and cabbage, may offer additional cancer protection.

Fiber-Get fiber by eating fruits, vegetables, beans and whole-grain foods. Fiber helps foods move more quickly through your colon, reducing the amount of time that cancer-causing agents spend in the gastrointestinal tract.