Is there an ‘anticancer’ diet?

Kind of, but it’s more about your pattern of eating than specific foods.

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Today’s Ingredients Cancer is the one area of nutrition where it’s easy to get tangled up with claims and counterclaims about which foods may cause it, prevent it, or make no difference at all. With more than 2 million people in the United States expected to receive a cancer diagnosis this year, we thought it would be a good idea to call in an expert to help tease it all apart. Below, registered dietitian Kirsten Seele clears up what your diet really does, and doesn’t do, when it comes to cancer.   • Food to enjoy: Egg scramble with everything bagel seasoning   • News to know: Just 2 hours of strength training a week may help you live longer   • Tips to live well: 9 ways to get rid of butt cellulite Let’s eat to live, Tim Snaith Newsletter Editor, Healthline   Written by Tim Snaith June 9, 2026 • 3 min read Let’s Ask the Dietitian Q: What role can your diet play in cancer prevention and management? A: While no one food can cause or cure cancer, your diet does affect your overall risk. Your body needs adequate nutrients to produce and maintain healthy cells and keep the immune system strong. So one of the best ways to reduce your risk of cancer is to follow a nutrient-rich eating pattern that includes: fruits and veggies (variety is key) whole grains high fiber foods like legumes nuts and seeds plant-based proteins, fish, or poultry We also can’t forget about antioxidants. These molecules fight off free radicals, which have been linked to cancer. Foods high in antioxidants include: berries leafy greens green tea dark chocolate turmeric Fun fact: Vitamins C and E are both antioxidants! Observational studies have also found links between certain types of cancer and diets high in certain foods. For example: Excessive alcohol consumption has been linked to at least six types of cancer. Eating red meat and processed meats, like deli meat, bacon, and hot dogs, may increase the risk of cancer. This could be due to cancer-promoting compounds, such as heterocyclic amines produced during high temperature cooking, and nitrates, found in processed meats. Milk and milk products may increase the risk of prostate cancer (however, these foods may decrease the risk of bowel and breast cancer). Lastly, let this serve as a reminder to check with your doctor about your risk factors and yearly cancer screenings. Kirsten Seele, Registered Dietitian Want to learn more about food, diets, cooking, or some other nutrition subject? Let us know at nutritionedition@healthline.com and we’ll look into it for you! (Heads up, we may use your response in an upcoming newsletter.) RECIPE PICK Cilantro Lime Shrimp Salad with Feta and Watermelon This salad combines juicy watermelon, salty feta, crisp greens, and tender shrimp tossed in a simple citrus-herb dressing for a fresh, satisfying meal. GET THE RECIPE → HEALTHLINE VIDEO How To Eat Intuitively According to a Registered Dietitian Val Goldberg shares the basics of mindful eating and how to embrace intuitive eating in your life! Learn to listen to your hunger cues and adopt healthy eating habits that support you. WATCH NOW the takeout What we’re digesting 🫀 Complications of transthyretin amyloidosis. The heart condition that often gets mistaken for ordinary heart failure. ❓ Some unusual symptoms of diabetes. Dizziness and fruity breath are among the signs that are rarely discussed. 💊 Erectile dysfunctions and vitamins. Which supplements might actually help, and which are mostly marketing? 🤧 Can you be allergic to cinnamon? The spice hides in everything from curries to toothpaste. Until next time, Take care of yourself, and we’ll see you again soon!   This edition was powered by marinated anchovies on toasted bread. ️

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