Much has been made of the effect of certain chemical compounds found in a diet rich in fruits and vegetables on cancer prevention and recurrence. Although no one would argue about the benefit of proper nutrition on our health, a study published in the July 18, 2007 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association did not find evidence to support the consumption of a diet heavy on fruit and vegetables to prevent breast cancer recurrence.

• Leslie Beck, BSc, RD, and nutritionist has a weekly column in the Globe and Mail. She is author of seven books on nutrition and is a member of Dietitians of Canada and the College of Dietitians of Ontario.