exercise, nutrition and mental health

After receiving the news of her cancer diagnosis in March 2024, Catherine, Princess of Wales, recently released personal update about his treatment, expressing relief that his chemotherapy cycle was over.

Millions of people around the world receive chemotherapy every year – and that number is likely to augment. 2019 study The number of patients needing chemotherapy is expected to augment by 53%, from 9.8 million in 2018 to 15 million in 2040.

So how best to take care of your body during and after the procedure?

In addition to surgery and radiotherapy, chemotherapy is one of the most commonly used treatment methods. cancer treatmentThe goal is to stop cancer cells from growing by killing them or stopping them from dividing.

But chemotherapy does not differentiate between cancer cells and fit cells, so it is related to diversity With side effects including fatigue, hair loss, mouth ulcers, nausea and vomiting, infections, problems with memory and concentration – and emotional problems ranging from mood swings to anxiety and depression.

Chemotherapy can also have long term impact on the body. Slow effects may include neuropathy (nerve damage) heart complicationsAND suppression of the immune system – all of these symptoms can occur months or even years after treatment.

Management and maintenance

Undergoing chemotherapy is physically and mentally exhausting, and some patients find that their quality of life is seriously affected due to side effects of treatment.

But research shows that many patients can cope better with chemotherapy by focusing on nutrition, exercise and their mental health both before and during treatment.

Patients undergoing chemotherapy may experience changes in taste and appetite, so maintaining adequate nutrition during treatment can be challenging. But healthy diet is crucial to assist the body alleviate the side effects of chemotherapy – and eat well can assist keep patients’ weight stable and avoid malnutrition.

Easily digestible foods with a neutral taste, such as oatmeal and eggs, may be better tolerated during treatment. Rich in nutrients and energy Foods such as nut butters, dried fruits, avocados, nuts and seeds can also be good options. Some chemotherapy drugs can cause “lips after chemotherapy” – when the treatment affects the taste to such an extent that even water can become unpalatable. In this case, drinking clear broth can assist keep you hydrated.

Exercise can also be very beneficial during chemotherapyeven if patients are I’m struggling with fatigueGentle movement such as walking, stretching, or yoga can assist maintain mobility, reduce treatment-related fatigue, and improve mood.

Studies have shown that that regular moderate exercise during cancer treatment can augment patients’ energy levels, improve the quality of their sleep, and reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. Although it is crucial not to overexert yourself, even a few minutes of daily activity can make a difference.

As the Princess of Wales shared in her update, cancer treatment is a deeply emotional journey, as well as a physical one. Dealing with anxiety, depression, and stress is key to overall well-being.

AND Study 2022 It has been found that maintaining a forceful emotional support network can reduce the stress of treatment and improve quality of life. Counseling, therapy, or support groups can provide a unthreatening space to express emotions and fears.

Recovery after treatment

After chemotherapy, recovery is gradual – the body needs time to regain strength and regenerate from the effects of treatment.

In her film, the princess and her family walk and play in the fields and forest, emphasizing the value of activity and contact with nature. Participants Study 2023 reported that “nature was the most crucial resource in dealing with cancer.” studies have shown that “exposure to and interaction with the natural environment” can assist improve the health of people recovering from cancer.

However, running outdoors may be the last thing on your mind after chemotherapy. After treatmentpatients may experience severe fatigue, muscle weakness, and decreased endurance. Some types of physical activity is essential to aid in recovery.

Regular exerciseincluding cardiovascular and endurance training, helps rebuild muscle strength, improves cardiovascular health and reduces the risk of cancer recurrence. Start with gentle exercises such as walking, swimming, or stretching. Over time, patients can augment the duration and intensity of their activities as their body allows.

This period after treatment is a time to focus on mental and emotional recovery, as well as rebuilding physical strength. As patients adjust to life after treatment, can face feelings anxiety, uncertainty or fear of the cancer coming back. The princess spoke of the emotional difficulties of explaining her illness to her children and coping with uncertainty about her future. Mental resilience plays a key role in long-term recovery: research shows that solving mental health problems Power improve significantly the patient’s quality of life.

The recovery process from chemotherapy is multifaceted, including physical rehabilitation, dealing with long-term side effects, and emotional healing. By exercising, maintaining a fit diet, and focusing on mental health, patients can rebuild their strength and well-being—and, as Catherine told others going through cancer treatment, “let that airy shine brightly.”