Healthy Lifestyle Changes after Cancer

Many people with cancer and survivors worry about cancer relapsing after treatment. Positive lifestyle changes can help prevent a cancer relapse. However, many cancer survivors are also likely to develop chronic health issues like obesity, heart problems, thinning of the bones and / or bone breakage, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels and diabetes.

These health issues can be prevented by improving your health and quality of life in the following ways:

Eating a healthy diet

Include an assortment of fruits vegetables and other unprocessed, low-fat foods in every meal. Healthy eating can also reduce the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes. Lean protein and low-fat dairy products are also recommended. Avoid highly processed foods and red meats as much as possible.

Doing physical activity regularly

Side effects from cancer and cancer treatment, such as fatigue or sleep problems, can keep you from being active. However, it is essential to lead an active life. Try to avoid sitting or lying down for long periods. Exercise during and after cancer treatment can help reduce fatigue, weight gain, and loss of strength.

Manage stress

Reducing your stress level can help you maintain your physical and mental health. Make time for fun. Get together with friends, watch a movie, walk the dog, or play with your kids. Laughter can reduce stress and improve your mood.

Accept practical and emotional support

Learn how to cope with difficult feelings. Feelings of stress, anxiety, and depression and fear of recurrence can slow a person's recovery. Having a network of supportive people is very beneficial for your health, especially emotional support. Patients with the most social support tend to have better quality of life and lived longer.

Over and above, stay in touch with your health care team. They can recommend and schedule follow-up care appointments to look for signs of recurrence and/or manage long-term side effects.