Hello all, this is my first post, so if my posting etiquette is in err or there are rules I should be aware of please feel free to tell me.

I have recently experienced some people close to me discovering they had contracted differing forms of cancer. After my initial distress and worry for them, I have begun to look at my own health and wonder if there is anything more I could be doing to help prevent cancer.

After preliminary research on the internet and talking to various personal resources, I have seen quite a division regarding natural health products. More specifically antioxidants. I was wondering what people's opinions here are regarding natural health products, and whether they are of any benefit (which the AHA and like seem to think not) or just more pills that realy have no more than a placebo effect.

I have sourced out some products, but I am unsure whether this is the route I should pursue. I have already decided to alter my diet and obtain antioxidant ingredients via food, but want to know if these supplements are a waste of time.

Thanks for your help, have a nice day.

Unfortunately, Benny, no one can say for sure what works and what doesn't. There are studies being done all the time but, as you may have seen in your research, they can produce contradictory results.

My own feeling is that following a good diet, one that is low in fat (especially saturated and trans fats), includes a good variety of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats (and not too much red meat), is the best one can do. That and making sure you get plenty of exercise.

There are so many different types of cancer, and each of them has its own cause/effect, that trying to develop one "prevention" method is like trying to cure the common cold...it probably ain't gonna happen! On the other hand, many more cancers are curable now than even 5-10 years ago, so progress is definitely being made.

One of my favorite sayings is a John Lennon quote: "Life is what happens while you're making other plans." Don't let your life go by while you are consumed with worrying about what MIGHT happen. Just try to incorporate the things we know are good for us (the diet and exercise component), and get on with your life, doing the best you can to enjoy each day as it comes, and let the future take care of itself.

Ruth