The New American Plate

Science-based Approach

AICR's expert report, Food, Nutrition, Physical Activity, and the Prevention of Cancer: a Global Perspective, found that a predominantly plant-based diet – as in the New American Plate – may reduce the risk of cancer. Not only do vegetables, fruits, whole grains and other plant-based foods provide an array of cancer-protective compounds, but a predominantly plant-based diet is a powerful tool in weight management. The fiber and water in plant foods gives a feeling of fullness without supplying a lot of calories.

The report concluded that maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most important things you can do to reduce your risk of cancer.

The three strategies for both cancer prevention and weight loss are similar.

Strategies for Cancer Prevention:

1. Eat mostly plant-based foods, which are low in energy density
2. Be physically active
3. Maintain a healthy weight (via steps 1 and 2, as well as reducing portion size)

Strategies for Weight Loss:

1. Eat a greater proportion of plant-based foods, which are low in energy density
2. Be physically active
3. Reduce your portion size