A diet built from plant foods offers the most cancer-fighting protection of any diet plan, according to numerous studies. The National Cancer Institute research shows that as much as 50 percent of cancer risk may be related to diet. Certain diet patterns seem to have a major effect in helping people diagnosed with cancer to live longer, healthier lives.

 Join chef MiMi McGee and Food for Life cooking instructor with The Cancer Project (online at cancerproject.org) for a series of weekly nutrition and cooking classes at the Picker Family Resource Center beginning on Thursday, September 6. Learn about the right food choices that can help reduce the risk of developing cancer as well as support you on your healing journey if you are diagnosed. The four-week class series will include a discussion on maintaining a healthy weight and a variety of cancer-related nutrition topics that demonstrate how to prepare delicious and healthy meals that can easily be created at home.

As one of the participants in last year’s summer series reflected: “I have never had a class that just blew my socks off! It was explained so well and was so clear to understand. Thank you so much!” Another remarked, “I have lost over 30 pounds and have kept it off for almost a year now. I have so much more energy and zest for life. My arthritis is much improved. Feeling better allows me to exercise more and make healthy choices, and my family benefits too.” 

Fall classes will be held on Thursdays from 5:30-7:30 p.m., September 6, 20, 27 and Tuesday, October 2. The classes are open to cancer survivors, friends, family and anyone interested in cancer prevention and healthy eating. There is a $60 fee per person for the four-class series, scholarship support is available. Register in advance by calling the Picker Family Resource Center at 596-8950.

 The How Foods Fight Cancer series is offered throughout the nation and is meant to give attendees a taste of what the Food for Life program has to offer. In the classes, scientific findings are translated into simple, practical steps you can use in your own kitchen. The class provides information about the link between diet and cancer, the benefits of plant-based nutrition and the practical cooking skills needed to help you on your journey to better health. All of the classes include a cooking demonstration and tasting of delicious, healthy dishes.

 The Picker Family Resource Center is located between the Women's Health Center and Urology Building on the Pen Bay Medical Center campus, 3 Glen Cove Drive, off Route 1 in Rockport. Use the parking lot and door in the middle near the Urology side of the building. Call 596-8950 for directions if needed.