If you have been diagnosed
breast cancer, Do not give up. Experts from the American Cancer Society argue that much more benefit will come not from moral torment, but from active physical training lasting at least 4 hours a week.
In April 2019, Breast magazine published an interesting analytical report based on 10 studies. The scientific experiments involved women who had breast cancer. As it turned out, those who played sports during treatment had a 40% lower chance of death than those leading a sedentary lifestyle. In addition, regular physical exercise reduces the risk of relapse by 40-50%.
Why is sport so beneficial for breast cancer? The fact is that exercise helps curb the growth of adipose tissue. This is important because fat cells contain estrogen, a hormone that, according to the NGO BreastCancer.org, stimulates the growth of many types of breast cancer.
And this is just the beginning. Research shows that exercising during and after cancer treatment provides other benefits, such as:
- Fewer side effects from treatment. An active lifestyle can relieve nausea associated with chemotherapy, reduce the risk of blood clots, and combat constipation.
- More energy. According to the US National Comprehensive Cancer Network, athletes experience less fatigue and adapt more quickly to changing conditions.
- Improved mood. According to research published in December 2018 in the journal Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, patients who exercise regularly have lower levels of anxiety and depression.
- More mobility. Targeted stretching exercises can reduce tension in the muscles of your arms and shoulders. Typically, tone develops as a result of scar tissue formation associated with surgery or radiation.
- Healthier and stronger bones. Anticancer therapy increases the risk of developing osteoporosis. And resistance exercise such as walking, jogging, and strength training can help combat bone loss.
- Strong muscles. Sport helps restore strength, strengthen the body and make everyday life easier. Thanks to physical activity, you will avoid the loss of muscle mass that is observed in most patients during antitumor therapy.
- No problems sleeping. According to research, exercise is one of the best remedies for insomnia in both healthy people and those with breast cancer.