A: In the largest study of its kind, the Nurses’ Health Study, researchers reported a 17 percent lower rate of breast cancer among women who consumed at least two servings per day of fruits and vegetables as compared to those who consumed less than one per day. In another recent study, the consumption of more than five servings a day of vegetables versus less than three servings per day was associated with a 54 percent reduction in the breast cancer rater. The health benefits of eating fruits and vegetables have prompted the National Cancer Institute and the Produce for Better Health Foundation to co-sponsor the national “5 a Day for Better Health” program. This program is designed to encourage and provide practical ways for people to consume at least five servings per day of fruits and vegetables. However, now there is even more compelling evidence that eating 7 to 10 daily servings of fruits and vegetables, as I recommend, is even more helpful for breast cancer prevention and a number of other chronic illnesses and health problems as well.