Does what I eat affect the development of cancer?

There is now a substantial amount of research that shows that lifestyle factors affect the risk of developing cancer. That is, some foods are protective while others may be harmful. For instance we know that eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables can help protect against cancer developing. The reason for this is that fruits and vegetables are high in protective components referred to as bioactive food components. Some examples of these components include phytochemicals, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids. While components in foods are thought to be protective, the same can’t be said yet about taking supplements with the same components, so it is better to get these protective nutrients from food. Some research also suggests that other nutrients such as vitamin D may also prove to be protective against cancer development, however a great deal of research needs to be done still.