When you include the American Institute for Cancer Research in your estate plans, you make a major difference in the fight against cancer.

Corporate Champions who partner with the American Institute for Cancer Research stand at the forefront of the fight against cancer

40 Years of Progress: Transforming Cancer. Saving Lives.

The AICR Lifestyle & Cancer Symposium addresses the most current and consequential issues regarding diet, obesity, physical activity and cancer.

The Annual AICR Research Conference is the most authoritative source for information on diet, obesity, physical activity and cancer.

Cancer Update Program – unifying research on nutrition, physical activity and cancer.

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Whether you are a healthcare provider, a researcher, or just someone who wants to learn more about cancer prevention, we’re here to help.

Read real-life accounts of how AICR is changing lives through cancer prevention and survivorship.

We bring a detailed policy framework to our advocacy efforts, and provide lawmakers with the scientific evidence they need to achieve our objectives.

AICR champions research that increases understanding of the relationship between nutrition, lifestyle, and cancer.

Are you ready to make a difference? Join our team and help us advance research, improve cancer education and provide lifesaving resources.

AICR’s resources can help you navigate questions about nutrition and lifestyle, and empower you to advocate for your health.

November 18, 2010 | 2 minute read

Cancer Protection: More (Veggies & Fruits) Matters

How many Americans do you think eat the recommended amount of vegetables each day?  Fruit?

Not many, according to a new report “State of the Plate” by the Produce for Better Health Foundation.  In fact, only 6% reach the target for vegetables and 8% for fruit.  And this includes juice and fresh, frozen and canned fruits and vegetables.

Most Americans know that veggies and fruits are valuable health promoting foods, but clearly that’s not enough to get these cancer fighting powerhouses into our diet.

Although several groups have increased fruit consumption and a few have increased vegetables, older adults are eating fewer fruits and vegetables compared to just 5 years ago.  Those aged 65 and over are taking in almost 10% less than in 2004.

For older Americans, a healthful diet rich in fruits and vegetables is one key to preventing cancer, diabetes, heart disease and other chronic illnesses.  Risk for all these diseases increases as we age, but it is never too late to lower your risk.

Here are some ideas for increasing your vegetables:

1.            Start your dinner with a green salad or cup of vegetable soup.

2.            Fill your lunch and dinner plate with vegetables first – and make it cover at least 1/3 of the plate.

3.            Keep a container of carrots, celery, peppers and broccoli cut up and available in the refrigerator for snacks and to add to lunch.

4.            Stock your freezer with bags of frozen veggies – they’re easy to microwave or quickly steam to go with lunch or dinner.

5.            Go for “Meatless Monday” and try some new veggie dishes.

Check out Recipes from the AICR Test Kitchen.

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