You have around 10,000 cancer cells in your body right now, but most never become dangerous. The science suggests cancer risk is not just about genetics, but how your body responds to these cells. So what can you do, day to day, to support your body’s natural defences?In this episode, Dr William Li, a world-renowned physician, scientist, speaker, and two-time NYT Bestselling author, explains how everyday foods can fuel cancer growth or help your body keep it under control. We explore how cancer starts, why it is part of normal biology, and explain why lifestyle and environment are more important than genetics when managing your cancer risk.Dr Li shares simple guidance on eating patterns that support your body’s defences, including increasing plant-rich foods and reducing ultra-processed foods. He also highlights everyday habits such as staying active, supporting gut health, and limiting toxin exposure as ways to tip the balance in your favour.If your body is already managing cancer cells every day, what small changes could help it do that job better?🌱 Try our science-backed and tasty wholefood supplement Daily30Get our brand-new app and Gut Health Test designed by world-leading gut health and nutrition scientists to build healthy eating habits 👉 Join ZOEFollow ZOE on Instagram.Timecodes📚Books by our ZOE ScientistsThe Food For Life CookbookEvery Body Should Know This by Dr Federica AmatiFood For Life by Prof. Tim SpectorFerment by Prof. Tim SpectorGood Mood Food (preorder) by Prof. Tim SpectorFree resources from ZOEThe Hormone Harmony Guide: Tuning Your Body’s Internal OrchestraEating for Better Brain Health: Your brain-gut blueprintHow to eat in 2026 - Discover ZOE’s 8 nutrition principles for long-term healthLive Healthier: Top 10 Tips From ZOE Science & NutritionGut Guide - For a Healthier Microbiome in Weeks Better Breakfast GuideMentioned in today's episodeEat to Beat Disease: The Body’s Five Defence Systems and the Foods that Could Save Your Life by Dr William Li Eat to Beat Your Diet by Dr William LiHuge microbiome breakthrough from ZOE, thanks to community scienceShanghai Breast Cancer Study, JAMA (2009)The Anti-Cancer Activity of Lycopene, Nutrients (2022)Health Professionals Follow-Up StudyHave feedback or a topic you'd like us to cover? Let us know here.Episode transcripts are available here.