If you, a friend or a family member has been struggling with cancer you might want to read this!

Hey everyone,

 

I was contacted by David Haas who is a Guest Blogger for the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance and he asked me if he could post a blog. After reading it I definitely think this is some awesome information, so check it out down below!

 

Michael

 

Exercising With Cancer

A diagnosis of cancer, and the process of treating and recovering from that cancer, may make it difficult to give a great deal of thought to maintaining a regular exercise regime. However, as the American Cancer Society points out, the inactivity from fighting any chronic illness can reduce your body’s muscle tone and strength. While keeping fit during cancer treatments or afterward may be difficult, exercise has many benefits, both physical and mental.

Muscle Tone
Being able to get around and do the things you have always done in the past requires that you maintain your muscle mass and tone. Not being active can negatively affect your recovery, since spending most of your time in bed or sitting allows muscles to waste away. In concert with a good diet, a few simple exercises each day can help you combat this problem. For example, some light exercise with dumbbells, or a stretching workout, can help you keep the muscle you need.

Heart and Lungs
During and after any cancer treatment, your body needs a good flow of oxygenated blood to help rebuild itself. This means that you should ensure that your heart and lungs and in good shape. You can use cardiovascular exercise to help you do this. Walking or slowly jogging around the neighborhood or on your treadmill is a great way to get you blood pumping.

Energy
Cancer treatments and their aftermath can be exhausting. It can sometimes take an effort just to get out of bed. By keeping yourself can physically fit as possible in spite of cancer, you will also gain a boost in energy that will help you throughout the day. That way, you may be able to continue doing the same activities as before.

Mood
One of the less obvious benefits of keeping up regular exercise when you have a diagnosis of cancer or are in recovery is that it empowers you. Often, patients feel that they have handed over all control of their life to the doctors and nurses who are helping them. By setting up and maintaining a planned exercise program, you can feel that you are taking some of that control back.

Whether you have just been diagnosed with mesothelioma or are recovering from breast cancer chemotherapy treatments or surgery, the benefits of regular exercise cannot be denied. However, you should always remember that before you begin any kind of exercise program or continue the one you had before, you should consult with your personal physician about how it will impact your particular case.

 

David Haas

Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance Guest Blogger

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