Reducing cancer risk with vitamins C, e, and selenium.

Abstract Current research has provided evidence that nearly 90 percent of all cancers may be related to diet, environment, and lifestyle. Of this number, 30 to 40 percent of cancers in men and up to 60 percent of cancers in women may be related to diet and nutrition. The two-stage process in the formation of many cancers, defined as initiation and promotion, is influenced by many dietary components. Vitamins C, E, and the mineral selenium are nutrients that function as antioxidants, reducing potential cancer-causing chemicals in the body. These natural anticarcinogens are thought to alter the cancer process and are currently under study for their cancer prevention properties. The functions, Recommended Dietary Allowances, food sources, research evidence for cancer prevention, and recommendations for supplementation are presented for these three nutrients. Research suggests that the proper and prudent use of nutrients, along with a healthy diet and lifestyle, may offer protection against this devastating disease.