Binding with bile acids in the intestinal tract, some of which could convert to co-carcinogens. Besides decreasing cancer risk, eating more fruits, vegetables, and less fat will also help reduce the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and diabetes. The National Academy of Sciences, U.S. Department of Agriculture, and the National Cancer Institute all recommend that 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables be eaten every day to reduce the risk of cancer and other chronic diseases and maintain good health. Both recommend that Americans eat between 5 and 9 servings of fruits and vegetables every day. The 5 a Day Program emphasizes eating a variety of fruits and vegetables.
Research indicates that fruits and vegetables are generally protective against cancer.
However, the possible cancer-reducing properties of individual nutrients and food constituents are still being investigated. French fries do not count towards the 5 a Day goal because of their high fat content. However, Americans still need to increase their fruits and vegetables. In addition, according to the 1993 survey, only one in ten Americans now say they need to eat only two or fewer daily servings - a dramatic drop from 1991 when one in three Americans said one or two servings a day of fruits and vegetables was enough. Those who think they should eat more fruits and vegetables do so.