The latter are also the genotoxic carcinogens found in cancers of the breast, prostate, colon, and pancreas. Their mode of action has been reasonably well established as a basis for prevention of their action. Other nutritional factors bearing on chronic disease causation are saturated fats as regards coronary heart disease, and total fats with respect to nutritionally linked cancers. Monounsaturated oils are preferred as a low risk fat for heart disease and cancer. However, all fats are calorie dense and for that reason, their intake needs to be controlled in view of the high degree of obesity seen in the often sedentary American people.
Regular exercise is part of a healthy lifestyle.
The exciting aspect of all of this research is the acquisition of an understanding of the underlying mechanisms, going from molecular considerations to human studies. Thus, public health can be on a sound basis.