Move to beat cancer

Cancer is no longer a shock to us as a society. But it is to those who face it. Tricky and frightening as it seems, there’s a new powerful ally, research shows, time and time again: Movement!

Sustained movement helps with the following: reduces fatigue and helps you feel more energized, improves sleep and the health of the immune system, helps build stronger bones and muscle strength, prevents weight gain and one major advantage – it improves your mood. Several studies have shown the rate of recurrence for both breast cancer and colon cancer can decrease by almost half in patients who exercised. That’s nothing to sneeze at. If you’re not an active person, do know that regular household activities do not necessarily count as exercise. Time is a precious commodity these days but give yourself the gift of physical activity time. While we suggest that you consult a professional before starting any exercise program especially if you are undergoing treatment, here’s something that will give you an idea about general recommendations for exercise.  Get out for at least half an hour of moderate level activity – brisk walking for example – five times a week. Increase to an hour and vary the type of exercise if possible, for more benefits.

Several reviews have pointed out to the fact that although exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of recurrence and it has been shown to lower the risk of many cancer, most patients do not receive specific exercise recommendations. If that’s your case or someone you know, ask your doctor about exercise as a way to prevent cancer and cancer recurrence and discuss a possible referral to a sports professional.

According to the Canadian Cancer Society, up to 35% of all cancers can be prevented by being active, eating well and maintaining a healthy body weight. A good reason to start today!

Useful links, courtesy of BC Cancer Society:

• Diet and Physical Activity (American Cancer Society)
• Dietitian Services at HealthLink BC – Free nutrition information line for residents of British Columbia.
• Eat Healthy and Get Active (American Cancer Society)
• Energy Balance: Weight and Obesity, Physical Activity, Diet (US National Cancer Institute)
• Exercise and Physical Fitness (MedlinePlus)
• Food and Nutrition (MedlinePlus)
• Nutrition (MedlinePlus)
• Nutrition and Fitness (Canadian Cancer Society)
• Physical Activity (Cancer.Net)
• Physical Activity Line – Free phone line and online resource to active, healthy living provided by CSEP Health and Fitness Program of BC and the Public Health Agency of Canada.