Eat More Fruits, Vegetables

The lifestyle choices you make each day can affect your risk for cancer. The American Cancer Society says that not smoking is the main way to cut your cancer risk. If you're a nonsmoker, choosing to a healthy diet and being physically active are the most important things you can do to reduce your risk for many types of cancer.

Several studies have found that diets rich in fruits and vegetables help prevent certain cancers, including cancers of the esophagus, oral-cavity, stomach, colon, rectum, lung and larynx, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI).

The NCI and the U.S. Department of Agriculture recommend eating 5-1/2 cups of fruits, vegetables and juices every day.

The NCI defines a serving as one medium fruit, 6 ounces of 100 percent fruit or vegetable juice, 1/2 cup cooked or raw vegetables or fruit, one cup of raw leafy vegetables or 1/4 cup dried fruit. Even eating just one extra serving of fruits and vegetables each day can help you avoid a dietary deficit.

Try to eat fruits and vegetables with the most color, which indicates high nutrient content.