Getting Your Fruits and Veggies May Help Prevent Lung Cancer

Written by: MDHealthGuide Staff | Posted on: Wednesday, January 4, 2012

As we all know, the best way to avoid lung cancer is to stop smoking, but new research conducted in Europe and reported by HealthDay would suggest that eating greater amounts of fruits and veggies may decrease the risk as well—including those that do smoke (though they stress that quitting is still much more effective).

HealthDay reports: “In the study, participants who ate a diet that contained a diverse mix of fruits and vegetables appeared to have a 27 percent lowered risk of a common type of lung cancer, the researchers reported.” As mentioned, the researchers stressed the importance of quitting, but acknowledge that this isn’t the most realistic expectation of all. Regardless, the findings show great promise for anyone concerned with the possibility of lung cancer, but explains what they mean by a “diverse mix.”

Variety in this case means more than one would typically think. A serving of corn at dinner doesn’t quite qualify, nor an apple with lunch. The diet must include different varieties of vegetables and fruits. In the study, eight categories were eaten, including stalk veggies, mushrooms, onion and garlic, grain and pod vegetables, cabbages, fruiting vegetables, root vegetables, and leafy vegetables—quite a spread for the average individual. Fruits included canned, dried, and fresh fruits.

What is it about fruits and vegetables that works so well? There is no conclusive answer to this question, because so many different foods were used in the study. There was mention that eating a higher amount of fruits and veggies lowers the risk of obesity, which is a factor among many types of cancer. There’s no arguing it, however, eating a greater variety of fruits and veggies will undoubtedly make you healthier—and reduce the chance for lung cancer.

Source: Can Fruits, Veggies Help Ward Off Lung Cancer?

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MDHealthGuide staff consists healthcare professionals and wellness enthusiasts from general health, fitness, nutrition areas.
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