C
Found in citrus fruits, broccoli and peppers, it can protect against cell damage and is important to the function of the immune system. Calcium May reduce the risk of colorectal polyps, precursors of colon cancer.

E
Found in almonds, wheat germ oil, peanuts and turnip greens, E is an antioxidant which neutralizes free radicals, the toxic oxygen-based molecules that damage cells and can lead to cancer. The National Cancer Institute is conducting a large study combining vitamin E and selenium, a mineral found in walnuts, alongside a placebo test in men aged 55 or older, to see effects on prostate cancer incidence. Results are due in a few years. May also protect against bladder cancer, according to recent research.

D
Found in fortified foods like milk, the body makes vitamin D when sunlight or ultraviolet light hit the skin. Taken with calcium, it’s linked to a lower risk of colon and prostate cancers.

Folic acid
Folate has a preventive effect on colorectal cancer; may have a preventive effect on breast cancer in women who drink.

Lycopene
A powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes and tomato products such as tomato sauce and watermelon, lycopene may reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

Selenium
A trace mineral which may destroy diseased cells is believed to reduce prostate, colon and lung cancers. Found in Brazil nuts and walnuts. The National Cancer Institute is conducting a large study combining vitamin E and selenium alongside a placebo test in men aged 55 or older to see if the combination protects against prostate cancer.

Source: MSNBC; National Cancer Institute; American Institute for Cancer Research; Dartmouth Medical School