conquering the food pyramid

For cancer survivors, eating a quality, well-rounded diet could significantly lower their risk of dying from cancer. A University of Florida study has found that, compared with survivors who ate poorly, cancer survivors who maintained a balanced diet faced a decreased mortality risk. The study based a balanced diet on one that was nutrient-dense and consisted of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, proteins and dairy.

The study, conducted by UF researchers, utilized health data obtained between 1988 and 1994 by the National Center for Health Statistics. Researchers combed through the data and analyzed the participants, 1,200 of which were cancer survivors. Having identified these survivors, the team moved on to assess their diets. Investigators turned to the Healthy Eating Index, which measures diet quality, and scored individuals based on how well they conformed to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Dietary Guidelines for Americans. Their next step was to follow up on the participants by consulting the records in the National Center for Health Statistics

Linked Mortality Files all the way through 2011. Researchers worked to find a link to associate cancer survivors’ diets with their deaths, whether that was any cause or specifically cancer related. They determined that cancer survivors were 65 percent less likely to die from cancer when they scored high on the Healthy Eating Index. Though the study indicates correlation between diet and risk of death, researchers cite the study as initial evidence that needs further study to prove direct causation. Still,

65%

Less Likely To Die

changing your diet to a more healthful, varied range of food will not have adverse e ects. Here’s how to do it.

› Aim for an inclusive diet, and eat different foods in moderation. This method is known as the total diet approach.

› Focus on vegetables and fruits, with at least one serving every day of whole fruits and a mix of different veggies.

› Vary the proteins you eat, and avoid added sugars, sodium and saturated fat.

› Choose fat-free milk, or switch to dairy-free alternatives such as almond milk.

Studies like the University of Florida’s public health research are important because they promote the knowledge and understanding of the general public. By being conscious of what you consume, you can improve your overall health in the short-term and in the future.