Fruits and Vegetables Fruits and vegetables seem to be strongly associated with a lower incidence of colorectal and lung cancers, as well as several other common cancers.2,4-6, 64-70 A diet high in fruits and vegetables might therefore also be beneficial for improving cancer survival, though there are few studies that have examined this question. The WHEL Study, which is currently in progress, is testing the effect of a diet high in vegetables, fruit, fiber, and low in fat on survival of women diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer.63 The average participant in the study will be followed for six years, so results from this study are expected to be known by the end of 2004. The benefits of eating fruits and vegetables might be much greater than are the effects of any of the vitamins they contain, as it is quite likely that the various vitamins and other phytochemicals in these whole foods act in synergy to reduce cancer risk.68 In the absence of clinical trials, it is reasonable for cancer survivors to adopt the general dietary recommendations issued by many different agencies, namely, to eat at least five servings of fruits and vegetables—fresh, canned, frozen, or juiced—each day.2,4-6 A serving size of fruit or vegetable is defined as: 1/2 cup of cooked vegetables or chopped fruit, 1/4 cup dried fruit, one piece of fresh fruit, one cup of raw green leafy vegetables, or equivalent amounts from multi-ingredient foods. Veget-ables and fruits are low in fat, contribute fiber and micronutrients, and are generally more healthful than many other food choices. Remember we are NOT Doctors and have NO medical training. This site is like an Encylopedia - there are many pages, many links on many topics. Support our work with any size DONATION - see left side of any page - for how to donate. You can help raise awareness of CAM.