Building Health And Strength When Fighting Cancer

SmithFit is proud to have David Haas as a guest blogger!


It may seem contradicting to say that health and cancer can work cooperatively to give you the best shot at survival, but there is significant science that says otherwise. Regardless of what your lifestyle was like in the past, you now have the power to take health and fitness into your own hands and fight cancer with full force.






Diet Is Everything






Plenty of fruits and vegetables will be the key to keeping you energized. Avoid processed foods at all costs, as these will simply make you feel worse on top of treatment. You need high-energy foods that will fuel your body. When you feel weak, eat something that is higher in carbohydrates, fiber and protein. Snack frequently and eat foods that have a high-nutrient density. Going vegetarian is often touted as a way to help increase health alongside cancer treatments.






Cancer treatment medications can make you feel awful and make you want to avoid certain foods. Have plenty of healthy snacks and foods you enjoy available at all times. A family member may be willing to prepare meals ahead of time for you, so that you have easy access to ready made food. Eating properly is so very important for going through cancer treatment.






Drugs that treat cancer also cause dehydration. Adequate water will help you feel energized, and it will help the nutritious food you eat go through your system. Drink as much as you can, unless something in your treatment program says otherwise.






Daily Fitness Will Help






It doesn't matter what you choose to do for activity. Any amount of physical exertion will help you stay energized, build immunity and help you fight the cancer, even with a mesothelioma diagnosis.






Some ideas for activity include walking, running, yoga, tai chi, boxing and group aerobic classes. Don't forget to include strength training. Traditional cancer treatments can cause the muscles to atrophy, and you will need to work on keeping them strong to be at your best level of health.






In the beginning, you may feel exhausted from treatment and your diagnosis. Keep up with the physical activity, and you will notice an improvement overtime. Numerous studies indicate that individuals who stay active during cancer treatment often overcome the cancer easier.






Ten minutes per day is sufficient for maintaining a certain degree of health. You may want to aim for at least 150 minutes per week. Cardiologists recommend this number for optimal heart strength and heart health. This is only 30 minutes per day, five days per week.






Get Group Support






Building health and strength for fighting cancer requires group support. Other survivors can give you tips on health and wellness, as well as provide friendship in your time of need. Family members are wonderful support systems, but there is nothing like the embrace of fellow survivors to motivate you along. Participate in cancer walks and group fitness sessions to help you make it through your journey with strength and radiant health.

written by:
davdhaas@gmail.com