Good Health Isn’t Always Just Luck

Many people have at least one superstition that influences their behavior or well-being. But finding a heads-up penny from the year you were born won’t increase your longevity or reduce the risk of disease if you’re not eating a healthful diet.

A low-fat, plant-based diet is associated with lower risks of heart disease and diabetes. However, a recent study from the American Institute for Cancer Research shows that fewer than half of Americans know that a diet high in plant-based foods can reduce cancer risk. And despite the mountain of evidence showing a link between red and processed meat and colorectal cancer, only 35 percent of Americans are aware of the risks that come with eating hot dogs and bacon.

Superstitions can be murky, but the science is clear. 

Good health isn’t just dumb luck. Fortunately, we can empower ourselves with the knowledge that we can influence our risk of disease. Just fill your plate with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.