News of possible new treatments for prostate cancer has filled the media recently—the vaccine Provenge leads the list. In addition to these exciting developments, there is continuing evidence that healthy eating is a another “weapon” in the arsenal for battling prostate cancer. And as I’ve said many times before, controlling what we eat is something we can all do—now!

Part of the key to a successful diet is having some sensible homemade foods on hand when you’re looking for a snack, in order to avoid overdosing on cookies or potato chips—in my house Pringles are not allowed within a 3 mile radius!

For me, having a boldly flavored rice or vegetable salad in the refrigerator keeps me on the path to healthy eating, whether I’m foraging for snacks or looking to quickly make a light lunch. Plus, most salads are an easy way to get more fiber and antioxidants into your diet.

Recent studies have challenged the idea that individual vitamin supplements may prevent cancer or slow its spread. The growing consensus is that people should focus on getting their vitamins not from supplements but from plant foods, such as vegetables and whole grains, which contain hundreds and even thousands of compounds that work together synergistically in ways that cannot be replicated by taking a single supplement.

I’ve always maintained, based on my continuing research that a balanced, reduced-fat diet, with lots of fruits and vegetables is the best approach for a healthy lifestyle. With the increasing number of farmers markets, food co-ops, and more organic fruits and vegetables available in the produce sections of many supermarkets, the range of what’s available is much more exciting than even a few years ago.

And don’t be hesitant or shy about trying a new vegetable. As an example,