We recommend Dr. David Herber's book entitled, What Color is Your Diet, published in 2001 by Harper Collins Publishers, Inc. It is a very informative read and has a lot of helpful information about nutrition for everyone - not just those who have cancer. The book includes recipes, a vitamin and supplement guide, herbal remedies, sample weekly menus for women and men, shopping lists designed to help you get started with his recommended diet, and more. Credit is given to Dr. Herber for the following information on nutrition. His book is the best we have found on this subject.

Why is Nutrition So Important in the Fight Against Cancer?
Normal cell death is called "apoptosis." Mutations can turn off "apoptosis" and instead of dying, the cell begins to multiply and this is the beginning of a cancerous tumor. Cancer occurs more commonly in organs where cells replace themselves often. For example, in the breasts, reproductive organs, skin, lungs and colon. Any parts of the body exposed to toxins or high levels of hormones are at risk. Cancer rates are 5 to 15 times higher in developed nations. Why? Because non-developed nations eat fresh fruits, vegetables and grains while the western diet consists of fatty meats, oils, fast food and sugar. David Herber, author of What Color is Your Diet believes that diet has the most significant effect on a cancer that has already formed. Diet can either inhibit or stimulate cancer growth. Antioxidants help to break down carcinogens (cancer-causing agents). Some antioxidants are produced by the body; others must be gotten from the foods we eat. Most antioxidants come from fruits and vegetables.

Risk Factors for Cancer.

1. Too many calories. Obesity increases the risk of breast, colon, ovarian, uterine, pancreatic, kidney and gallbladder cancers
2. Lack of fruits and vegetables in the diet. Dr. David Herber's color-coding system helps you think about more diversity in your diet.

Vitamin C
Most people are aware of the fact that Vitamin C boosts the immune system. If you are not taking Vitamin C daily, you could be doing yourself and your immune system a disservice. Check with your doctor about taking Vitamin C. We have heard that the tablets that you swallow are better than the chewable tablets. Vitamin C is found naturally in oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruit - these yummy fruits also contain antioxident cleansing agents!! Recommendation: Take 500 milligrams of Vitamin C per day and take one multi-vitamin in addition to the Vitamin C (check with your doctor first).

Tomatoes
Tomatoes are excellent for you. They contain an agent called Lycopene, which has been proven to have heart-healthy effects. Including a tomato in your daily menu can only help your heart's functioning. Plus, tomatoes contain antioxidents which can help the body cleanse itself of cancer-causing agents.

Organically Grown Foods
Fruits and vegetables that are grown organically have not been sprayed with insecticides and other chemicals. Organically grown fruits, vegetables and grains, while more expensive, are well worth it. Your body will not be ingesting pesticides, which may lead to cancer. Farmer's Markets are great places to find organic meats, fruits, vegetables and grains!