In this review, written by M. Nathaniel Mead in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives, researchers from the World Cancer Research Fund, and the American Institute for Cancer Research, report their summary of 9 systematic literature review (SLR) teams comprising 22 panelists to summarize the literature on nutrition, physical activity, and cancer.
The teams examined 7,000 articles, reviews, and meta-analyses in all languages. Team findings went to an international panel that synthesized information for many different cancers to come up with the report’s main recommendations.
The report concluded that about 40% of all cancers are linked to poor diet, physical inactivity, and sub-optimal body weight.
Be as lean as possible without becoming underweight.
Be physically active for at least 30 minutes every day.
Avoid sugary drinks. Limit consumption of energy-dense foods (particularly processed foods high in added sugar, low in fiber, or high in fat).
Eat a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and legumes such as beans.
Limit consumption of red meats (such as beef, pork, and lamb), and avoid processed meats.
Limit alcoholic drinks to 2 a day for men and 1 a day for women.
Limit consumption of salty foods and sodium-processed foods.
Don’t use supplements to protect against cancer.
Mothers should breastfeed exclusively for up to 6 months before adding other liquids and foods.
After treatment, cancer survivors should follow these recommendations for cancer prevention.