Dietary Phytochemicals in Cancer Prevention and Treatment

Abstract

The widespread enthusiasm for phytochemical research is obvious from the participation in this conference. However, the emerging research findings from this field can be confusing to consumers, who report they are frustrated with conflicting advice from the “experts.” The media’s instant coverage of new discoveries, sometimes without placing the new findings into a broader context, can have a negative impact on consumers’ motivations to change unhealthy dietary behaviors. You, as researchers, can help prevent this deleterious effect when you report your research results by referring consumers to the National Cancer Institute’s 5 A Day for Better Health Program. We do not yet know which combination of phytochemicals confers protection, but there is adequate evidence to recommend that consumers eat 5 or more daily servings of a variety of fruits and vegetables.