We've all heard the phrase, "You are what you eat." But it’s just as accurate to say you are what you don't eat.

According to the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR), eliminating specific foods from your diet can significantly reduce your risk for a variety of cancers. Foods to avoid include red and processed meats, any foods with added sugars and syrups, and over-the-top alcohol consumption.

But you can do more than reduce your cancer risk. You can mount an effective battle against cancer by indulging freely in the top cancer-fighting foods.

• Berries and strawberries deliver phytochemicals that reduce inflammation and ellagic acid, which battles tumors.

• Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli are known for their sulfhydryl compounds that decrease cancer formation.

• Kale contains glucosinolate, which can cause cell death in tumors. Spinach has carotenoids, folate, and glycoglycerolipids, all of which contribute to the battle against cancer.

• Beans and lentils are high in fiber and there is evidence that helps prevent colon cancer.

• 100% whole grains are associated with lower risks of colorectal, colon, gastric, pancreatic, and esophageal cancers, and with a 6% to 12% lower risk of any cancer.

• Coffee (decaf and regular) appears to decrease the risk of endometrial and liver cancers, and there is evidence that it may also decrease the risk of skin cancers and cancer of the larynx and pharynx, according to the AICR.

• Taking a multivitamin for 20 years, when added to a healthy diet, seems to decrease cancer risk by about 18%.