Why Exercise is Key for Cancer Patients

This article has been written by Liz Davies, a guest writer on my blog!

Daily activity is an important piece of a healthy existence for anyone, and it is just as essential for cancer survivors as it is for people who have never seen the disease. Cancer does not discriminate against anyone and neither do the benefits from exercise. Daily activity is powerfully linked with a decreased probability for reoccurrence of cancer paired with an increased life expectancy.

These are not the only benefits from exercise. Physical activity also decreases the uncomfortable symptoms of cancer treatments such as depression, nausea and fatigue. In general, physical activity enhances the immune system which is critical for patients who are fighting the disease and others who are trying to evade infection or anything else that could be health compromising.

Being overweight and leading an inactive lifestyle are connected to a variety of different diseases, including many cancers. It is imperative to lose the extra pounds or stop it from ever becoming an issue. This is overwhelmingly right for hormone-dependent cancers since daily activity provides regulation of the endocrine system. The stress hormone, cortisol, causes weight gain and be conquered by an average amount of physical activity.

Other ways that daily activity will provide benefits after cancer:

-          Allows deep and restful sleep throughout the night

-          Cures imbalances in musculature

-          Detoxifies the body (this is especially key after toxic chemotherapy)

-          Increases amount of oxygen throughout the body

-          Promotes relaxation

-          Overall, improves life quality

Depending on the type of cancer there are special considerations regarding recommendations and limitations when it comes to a recommended routine. A patient going through breast cancer treatment is going to have far different suggestions than someone receiving mesothelioma treatment.  It is very important for cancer patients to talk to doctors and certified cancer exercise trainers before beginning an exercise regimen.

Of course it is ideal for cancer patients to find exercises that are the most enjoyable for them. This way an exercise routine will be more strictly followed.  Yoga, pilates and other forms of stretching often invoke peace and harmony while offering the benefits of increased flexibility and range of motion. Other exercises like swimming and walking are often found extremely enjoyable and can be non-strenuous if need be.  No matter what type of exercise it is, the important part is that physical activity is being done to improve one’s life.

Liz Davies is a recent college graduate and aspiring writer especially interested in health and wellness. She wants to make a difference in people’s lives because she sees how cancer has devastated so many people in this world. Liz also likes running, playing lacrosse, reading and playing with her dog, April.