No diet or lifestyle plan can completely eliminate the risk of developing any type of cancer, but a new study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association has found that a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy grains may be associated with a higher rate of ovarian cancer survival.

The American Cancer Society estimates that 21,550 new cases of ovarian cancer were diagnosed in 2009, resulting in 14,600 deaths. Ovarian cancer in particular is associated with a poor outlook because the early stages of the disease have no symptoms, so it is usually not diagnosed until a later stage. Five-year survival rate is about 45%.

The researchers, from the University of Illinois-Chicago, examined a study on the self-reported diets of 351 women for three to five years prior to a diagnosis of epithelial ovarian cancer. They found that those who ate more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and less meat and dairy before their diagnosis had longer survival rates.

The vegetables found most beneficial are the cruciferous variety, which include broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale, and cauliflower. Those who had the best survival rate ate these foods three or more times a week. One of the phytochemicals in these vegetables called sulforaphane can stimulate enzymes in the body that can detoxify carcinogens before they damage cells.

Among the unhealthiest food in relation to ovarian cancer survival was red meat, processed and cured meats, and milk and milk-based foods. The researchers found a threefold risk of dying for women who ate four or more servings of red meat per week when compared to women who only ate one serving per week.

The study follows the advice of the American Cancer Society to follow a mostly plant-based diet as a defense against developing many types of cancer. Fruits and vegetables contain high levels of antioxidants, fiber, and other nutrients (such as vitamins C and E) that may improve overall health by reducing oxidative stress that damages cells and are thought to be a component to the development of some cancers.

Cynthia A. Thomson, PhD RD who co-authored an editorial to the study said it best. “Lifestyle matters – and lifelong lifestyle habits. Yes, you may still have a difficult diagnosis to deal with, but if you go in being a healthy eater, in the long run you may have a better prognosis and survival.”