The cause of most cancers is unknown. People are living longer and are more likely to get cancer as they get older. No single food protects you from or causes cancer.

Recent research shows that vegetables and fruit, cereals and grains and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a natural component in beef and milk products, may reduce the risk of getting some cancers.

Recent research at the University of Alberta shows that CLA can inhibit the production of cancerous tumours in the mammary glands of mice. More research is needed to find out the role of CLA in preventing breast cancer in humans.

Red meat does not cause cancer. Moderate amounts of meat, prepared in a healthy way, as part of a balanced way of eating is not associated with increased risk of cancer. To learn more, visit hetrocyclic amines and cancer risk.

The meat group is an important source of available iron, protein, zinc and vitamin B12. Healthy eating is about enjoying a variety of different foods from all of the four food groups - grain products, vegetables and fruit, milk products and meat & alternatives.

More references for cancer risk and red meat intake.

For more information, visit Nutrition Research.