Cancer

So much to say about this topic. There are many different types of cancers, and some of them are genetic and some are lifestyle. It is possible to have a fully healthy lifestyle and still get a diagnosis of cancer due to genetics and what you may be predisposed to. However, lifestyle has a large influence as well.

Lung cancer is one of the most common versions of this disease, and is also one of the most avoidable with lifestyle changes or methods. Smoking is a massive leading reason for the diagnosis, and simple avoidance decreases your chance significantly. Liver is another common version, and you can decrease chances of having this by avoiding over consumption of alcohol. Small amounts of alcohol are not necessarily detrimental to health, as some studies show benefits of 1 glass of red wine a day, but this is not 100% proven and should not be taken as hard scientific fact. Moderation is very important, as binge drinking significantly increases chances for liver disease which includes cancer. Most (not all) cancers decrease risk when living a healthy lifestyle and maintaining a healthy weight and activity level.

What about if you already have a type of cancer? Do you have to stop exercising? Great questions, and this must be cleared with a doctor. Most of the time improved exercise and nutritional habits come with improved health, however there are some kinds of cancer that the most important thing is rest and exercise may not be suitable. One general rule of thumb when working with cancer is to avoid heavy fatigue. It will likely take longer to recover from more intense exercise and this type is generally avoided. I have personally worked with many people with a diagnosis of cancer, and exercise has helped all of them in some way. Please reach out if you have questions and I will help to the best of my abilities while staying within my scope of practice!