(NaturalHealth365)  Most people are aware that regular exercise is beneficial to health.  Conversely, a sedentary lifestyle can be very dangerous, leading to conditions like obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.  Simply the truth: Physical, mental, and emotional well-being are all improved with exercise.

And now, there’s compelling evidence that exercising on a regular basis also contributes to a reduced risk of many types of cancer.  A recent review supports the prescription of physical activity for cancer prevention and even managing cancer treatment-associated symptoms and side effects post-diagnosis.  Mounting evidence suggests that higher levels of physical activity can lower cancer risk significantly for at least specific cancer types.

How exercise safeguards against cancer through body weight regulation

The protective link between exercise and cancer prevention goes beyond general health benefits.  Researchers have delved into the underlying mechanisms that contribute to this relationship, providing valuable insights into how physical activity can lower the risk of developing certain types of cancer.

One key mechanism involves the regulation of body weight and, more specifically, body fat.  Regular physical activity helps to maintain healthy body weight and lowers the risk of excess body fat.  Keep in mind, excess body fat can increase the risk of several cancers, including breast, colorectal, endometrial, and kidney cancer.  By walking, jogging, bike riding or even doing some form of resistance training (i.e. weight lifting or body weight exercises) – on a regular basis, you can greatly lower your risk of cancer.

Exercise modulates hormones and supercharges immunity for cancer defense

Exercise also influences hormone levels, another crucial factor in cancer development.  Physical activity has been shown to decrease circulating levels of estrogen, a hormone (in excess) that’s associated with an increased risk of breast and endometrial cancers.  In addition, exercise can improve insulin sensitivity, reducing insulin and insulin-like growth factor levels, which are known to promote the growth of certain cancer cells.

Furthermore, regular exercise can enhance the immune system’s ability to detect and destroy cancer cells.  It boosts the production and activity of immune cells, including natural killer cells, which play a vital role in recognizing and eliminating cancer cells in the body.  By strengthening the immune response, exercise supports the body’s natural defense against cancer.

Smart way to beat inflammation, oxidative stress, and cancer treatment challenges

Exercise also has a positive impact on systemic inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are implicated in cancer cell growth.  Regular physical activity, when done correctly, has been shown to reduce chronic inflammation and improve antioxidant capacity, reducing the potential damage to DNA and other cellular structures that can contribute to the initiation and progression of cancer.  If you’re not sure how to get started, consider hiring a personal trainer or health coach that has lots of experience.

Beyond cancer prevention, exercise can complement traditional cancer treatments.  Studies have demonstrated that physical activity can enhance the efficacy of certain approved anticancer therapies, such as targeted therapy, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy.  Additionally, exercise can help manage the symptoms and side effects associated with cancer and its treatment, including fatigue, cancer cachexia (muscle wasting), cognitive impairment, and depression.

Embrace an active lifestyle for cancer prevention and a vibrant life

Recognizing the immense impact of exercise on cancer prevention and treatment, clinical guidelines now recommend incorporating exercise into cancer rehabilitation programs.  Ongoing clinical trials continue to investigate the effects and underlying mechanisms of exercise in the context of cancer, further strengthening the evidence supporting its role in cancer prevention and overall well-being.

By embracing regular physical activity, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing certain types of cancer.  The relationship between physical activity and cancer prevention is an empowering one, don’t wait any longer.  The rewards are well worth the effort.

Sources for this article include:

NIH.gov
Sciencedaily.com