SPOTLIGHT ON…
	Cancer-Fighting Food Trends

Although predictions on the economy are all over the place, The Food Channel predicts the number one food trend for 2010 will be more home cooking as people economize. But it’s not necessarily your Mama’s home cooking.

Food Channel experts gazing into their 2010 crystal ball see ingredients that are whole, simple and sustainable. Keeping a pantry stocked with basics for quick and economical meals may be the new haute cuisine however, some of those staples may look different than they did 20 or 30 years ago.

Building a basic pantry in the new decade will still include foods like olive oil but will also contain a wider variety of spices and fresh herbs, and “exotic” whole grains such as quinoa and spelt.

Stocking Up

AICR’s recommendation to follow a mostly plant-based diet fits nicely with this trend. Building your pantry and stocking your refrigerator to develop a diet that can lower risk for cancer and other chronic diseases begins with smart shopping:

• The vegetable and fruit aisles (fresh, frozen and canned) in your supermarket are a great place to begin building your refrigerator basics. A diet with plenty of low calorie-dense foods like apples, berries and tomatoes helps keep calories low to aid your healthy weight goals.
• Many whole-grain staples such as pasta and rice can be cooked in a matter of minutes for quick, wholesome sides. Whole grains are high in fiber and help you feel fuller which may help prevent weight gain that often comes with aging.
• Herbs and spices can extend your cooking repertoire. Stock your spice cabinet with plenty of seasonings Think Indian, Italian, Middle Eastern and Southeast Asia for spice combinations to vary your basics. Laboratory studies are showing spices and herbs contain powerful substances that can prevent and “knock-out” cancer cell growth.

Beets Are the New Basics

Here’s how you can stock your pantry and fridge with old basics and some “new” basics to work towards a healthier 2010: