Cancer and Your Diet Diet is just one factor in assessing your risk for cancer. That's because there are more than 100 types of cancer, with many different causes. And the average American diet has many components -- some of which may lower the risk for cancer, while others may raise it.
Cancer Prevention Despite the odds, you can take steps now to greatly decrease your chances of developing cancer. It's not just a throw of the dice, but a combination of your hereditary risk factors and the type of lifestyle you lead.
Reducing Cancer Risk
Vitamin supplements don't help prevent cancer, according to several government studies. A report that reviewed more than 4,500 studies, however, found diets high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans do reduce risks for certain cancers, according to the American Institute for Cancer Research.