Choosing healthy foods and drinks instead of those that are high in refined carbohydrates and often in added sugar and fat (energy-dense foods) can help us avoid overweight and obesity and thereby reduce our cancer risk.

Eat more of a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes such as beans.

A recent study found that anthocyanins — the compounds that give fruits and veggies intense red, purple, or blue hues — may slow or prevent the growth of colon cancer.

To reduce your cancer risk, eat no more than 18 oz. (cooked weight) per week of red meats, like beef, pork and lamb, and avoid processed meat such as ham, bacon, salami, hot dogs and sausages.