WASHINGTON -- After Angela Christian was diagnosed with breast cancer six years ago, she knew she needed to make a change in her life. Her prognosis was good, but she didn't want to chance a recurrence.

"I do know the cancer that I had likes estrogen and estrogen is stored in the fat cells, so if you're thinner, you're not carrying as many fat cells," Christian said. "I'd pretty much watch what I ate as far as fats and things like that, but I've become more conscientious about the fat content and things like that."

So now she's changed her diet, opting for healthy, green salads and lean meats for lunch instead of fatty fare. And for good reason. According to a landmark study from the American Institute for Cancer Research, experts say to prevent cancer, shedding those extra pounds should be a top priority, especially excess fat around the waist.

"Obesity clearly is the most important finding. All the authors say this is something that really seems to cut across all cancers, to increase the risk of all cancers and something we can do about, that and exercise," said Washington Hospital Center oncologic surgeon Dr. Marc Boisvert.

The report found links between diet, exercise and six types of cancer, including breast, colon and prostate cancers. A new set of recommendations stresses limiting red meat and alcohol consumption, as well as processed foods like bacon, ham and lunch meat. The group says there's no safe amounts of these.

Boisvert said that's because they not only lack nutrition, but are chock full of nitrates.

"We've known for a long time that nitrates are carcinogenic," Boisvert. "It's what they use to process those meats and I think it's great that they're coming down this way."

Christian said even though it can be tough sticking to her diet, she has no intention of stopping anytime soon.

"Longevity. I want to be around for a long time. I have nieces, nephews I want to see grow up and if this gives me a better quantity and quality of life than it's well worth it."

One striking statistic in this report, the researchers believe that with a healthy diet and adequate exercise, and quiting smoking, cancer incidences could be cut in half.

More Information:

Diet and Cancer Report