Smartfood Program

Epidemiological and experimental evidence shows that only a small proportion of cancers are inherited; most arise from environmental factors that drive genetic changes. These include food toxins such as mycotoxins and alcohol, as well as smoking, infectious agents, radiation, medications, industrial chemicals, and pollutants. Adopting habits that reduce exposure to these carcinogens, including following a healthy diet, can help protect against tumor-promoting mutations.

Recent research has also shown that certain dietary patterns and regular physical activity can help prevent cancer and other age-related diseases by influencing genes involved in longevity pathways and by limiting fat accumulation, a known cancer risk factor. In this sense, a healthy environment can significantly reduce our likelihood of developing cancer. Nutrition therefore represents a powerful tool for preventing cancer and many age-related conditions.

Building on our existing networks, the Smartfood Translational Research Program aims to enhance nutrition at multiple levels.

The program’s potential benefits include:

• Deepening understanding of the links between diet and longevity.
• Encouraging positive and lasting behavior change.
• Increasing awareness of major health risk factors.
• Promoting well-being and supporting active, healthy aging.
• Providing effective strategies for primary prevention.
• Helping to reduce health care costs.
• Clarifying the biological mechanisms underlying disease susceptibility.