For those diagnosed with cancer and going through chemotherapy, exercise is probably the furthest thing on their mind. But exercise may be just what the doctor orders to help battle cancer-related fatigue.
A study published in the May 1, 1997 issue of Cancer reported patients that participated in an aerobic exercise program after undergoing chemotherapy experienced better physical performance, increased hemoglobin levels, and less fatigue than patients who did not exercise. The program consisted of walking five days a week for six weeks, gradually increasing in duration from three minutes per day in the first week to 30 minutes per day during the final week. Up to 30 percent of cancer survivors report a loss of energy after treatment.
This impairment in physical fitness is a significant contributor to a decreased quality of life in cancer patients. Traditionally, patients are advised to rest and limit daily activities but these recommendations might unintentionally perpetuate fatigue. By exercising, patients in the study were able to keep their muscles in shape, which made daily tasks easier.
The secondary benefit of exercising was an improved state of mind and mood, increased self-confidence, decreased depression, and higher levels of physical independence.
A second study, published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research in 1998, included 20 cancer patients that had undergone radiation and/or chemotherapy.
After participating in a 10-week program that consisted of aerobics, strength training, flexibility and relaxation, the results were amazing. The average increase in strength was 43 percent, while endurance increased 50 percent.
The American Cancer Society (ACS) continues to research the correlation between cancer recovery and exercise.
The ACS suggests that patients should talk with their health care professional before starting exercise.
The benefits of healthy eating during cancer treatment and recovery can not be stressed enough.
Some patients react to medication and lose their appetite while others gain weight due to fluid retention.
Cancer patients need to arm their bodies with the best nutrition possible so that the healing process can begin.
A balanced intake of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, water and vitamins and minerals will help to keep the body strong. While undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiation, the body does not heal itself as quickly and some patients find that they do not respond to exercise like they normally might. This is common. The body can only repair so many things at once. Sticking with your workout routine throughout treatment will help you to get back to normal as soon as possible.
Kim Springer and her husband, Mike, are certified personal trainers and owners of Springer Training. They can be reached at 233-9442 or at their Web site www.springertraining.com.
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