Heavy drinkers, especially those who use tobacco, have a high risk of cancer of the mouth, throat, and esophagus. The risk of breast cancer may be increased in women who drink alcohol. Limiting the use of alcohol can reduce these cancer risks and decrease the chances of other alcohol-related problems, such as liver disease. People who eat high-fiber foods have lower rates of colon cancer. Dietary fiber is found in whole grains, several types of vegetables, and certain fruits.
Fiber reduces the time it takes for wastes to pass through the intestinal tract.
High-fiber foods also tend to be low in fat. Eating cruciferous vegetables also helps reduce cancer risk. Cruciferous vegetables include cabbage, brussel sprouts, broccoli, and cauliflower. Eating these vegetables is thought to protect against cancer by blocking the effects of cancer-causing chemicals in other foods. Cruciferous vegetables are also high in fiber and low in fat.