Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer and is closely linked to excess sun exposure. A new study from Australia now also links the risk for reoccurring skin cancer with certain foods in our diet.

The study consisted of 1,056 randomly selected people living in the sunny sub-tropical region.  Researchers followed up with the individuals for 10 years and found that a high intake of green leafy vegetables cut the risk of reoccurring skin cancer by 55% in people with a history of skin cancer. 

However, those individuals with a high intake of full-fat dairy products, such as whole milk, full-fat yogurt, and cheese, had 2.5 times the increased risk of reoccurring skin cancer.

The Bottom Line:

If you have a history of skin cancer and are interested in preventing future skin cancers, you may benefit from eating more leafy greens (dark romaine lettuce, spinach, broccoli, kale, beet greens, Swiss chard, etc.) and limiting your intake of high-fat dairy products. These dietary practices are also good for your heart and overall health.

Source: Hughes, et al. (October 2006). Food intake and risk of squamous cell carcinoma of the skin. International Journal of Cancer, 119:1953-60.