What you eat can influence your risk of getting cancer. North Americans eat a variety of food, and some foods may have negative effects, such as fats, while some have positive effects, such as fiber. According to the American Cancer Society, up to 35 percent of all cancers may be related to diet. You can reduce your risk of cancer by lowering your fat intake. Within the digestive system, fat stimulates bile secretion that may in turn increase bacterial production of carcinogens (car-sin-o-jens), which are cancer-producing agents. The American Cancer Society recommends eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, which are good sources of fiber, which provides protection against cancers of the digestive system, and anti-oxidants, which repair damaged cells. For more information on nutrition and cancer, contact a healthcare professional.
