Beat Cancer with
Fitness
David Haas
A happy, active and energetic person may find himself or herself in a deep state of shock after being diagnosed with cancer, even a rare lung disease such as mesothelioma. While it can be a difficult adjustment moving from normal everyday life to that of a cancer patient, it does not have to be the end of fitness. Research has shown that engaging in regular physical activity during and after treatment has many benefits to those trying to regain health.
The effect of exercise on a cancer patient's energy level can be profound. Treatment regimens often cause fatigue, which can lead to patients staying in bed or otherwise not being as active as they should be. While going to the gym may be out of the question, a quick walk each day can help maintain muscle integrity and help the patient to control their weight while gaining energy.
Exercise may also keep cancer away in the future. Patients who take up or resume a regular physical activity routine after treatment may have a lower incidence of recurrence and are less likely to develop diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Being active is not a cure for cancer or any other ailment, but it does make the immune system stronger and better able to resist breakdown.
Going out to exercise each day brings social benefits to the patient by providing time with friends and family or other people going through treatment. Talking about the cancer experience with others who have survived it can be an inspiration if the patient is struggling. It also helps to avoid the isolation and loneliness that can occur, especially early in the treatment process when side effects are the most disturbing.
The best benefit of exercise is the sense of control and well being it provides to the patient. Something as simple as walking a little farther between the car and the house can make the patient feel accomplished. Physical activity can also keep depression and anxiety from taking over. This can improve the quality of the patient's life before and after treatment.
Anyone who is going through or has just finished cancer treatment should speak to his or her doctor before starting an exercise program. This will ensure the patient is healthy enough for physical activity and at what level they should begin. It is usually best to start out with low intensity exercise and gradually move into moderate intensity activities as energy levels permit. The patient should keep in mind that periods of rest are just as important as exercise in order to keep the body in balance.
Cancer is not the end but is actually a second chance at life. Being physically active is good for body, mind and spirit and can help patients make the most that gift. So get out there, fight back and get active!
A happy, active and energetic person may find himself or herself in a deep state of shock after being diagnosed with cancer, even a rare lung disease such as mesothelioma. While it can be a difficult adjustment moving from normal everyday life to that of a cancer patient, it does not have to be the end of fitness. Research has shown that engaging in regular physical activity during and after treatment has many benefits to those trying to regain health.
The effect of exercise on a cancer patient's energy level can be profound. Treatment regimens often cause fatigue, which can lead to patients staying in bed or otherwise not being as active as they should be. While going to the gym may be out of the question, a quick walk each day can help maintain muscle integrity and help the patient to control their weight while gaining energy.
Exercise may also keep cancer away in the future. Patients who take up or resume a regular physical activity routine after treatment may have a lower incidence of recurrence and are less likely to develop diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Being active is not a cure for cancer or any other ailment, but it does make the immune system stronger and better able to resist breakdown.
Going out to exercise each day brings social benefits to the patient by providing time with friends and family or other people going through treatment. Talking about the cancer experience with others who have survived it can be an inspiration if the patient is struggling. It also helps to avoid the isolation and loneliness that can occur, especially early in the treatment process when side effects are the most disturbing.
The best benefit of exercise is the sense of control and well being it provides to the patient. Something as simple as walking a little farther between the car and the house can make the patient feel accomplished. Physical activity can also keep depression and anxiety from taking over. This can improve the quality of the patient's life before and after treatment.
Anyone who is going through or has just finished cancer treatment should speak to his or her doctor before starting an exercise program. This will ensure the patient is healthy enough for physical activity and at what level they should begin. It is usually best to start out with low intensity exercise and gradually move into moderate intensity activities as energy levels permit. The patient should keep in mind that periods of rest are just as important as exercise in order to keep the body in balance.
Cancer is not the end but is actually a second chance at life. Being physically active is good for body, mind and spirit and can help patients make the most that gift. So get out there, fight back and get active!
I think it's wonderful that people care so much about the health and well-being of others and are willing to share their knowledge. Let's keep the discussion going, do you have anything to add? If so, let me know and we can really keep each other informed.
Thank you again David for all of the information, I hope others read it and become more informed!
No comments:
Post a Comment