Life Matters mode: take care of your health after cancer

This message was written by Deanna sipe, npPPG – Integrative medicine.

Cancer survival is a trip, not just a medical status. With growing research supporting the link between Life style and long -term healthIt is more important than ever for survivors to take care of their well-being. Making informed choices can help prevent recurrences, reduce other health risks and improve the quality of global life. Let’s explore how daily habits can have a lasting impact.

What does healthy for you mean?

Your health is not only marked by the absence of illness or injury. It also includes your state of physical, mental and emotional well-being. Cancer survivors are often faced with new challenges and redefine health means that can be the first step towards healing and prosperity. This personal definition opens the way to significant and lasting lifestyle changes.

To determine what health is like for you, remember to take a moment to think about these questions:

• How your Cancer diagnosis And treatment Your body, your emotions and your mind?

• What aspects of your health are the most important to you?

• What lifestyle changes can you bring to support your physical and mental health?

• What resources are available to help you manage your health after cancer?

The change in therapeutic lifestyle is a proven approach approved by trusted organizations such as the American Cancer SocietyTHE Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the American Heart Association. From nutrition to physical activity,, sleep And Stress managementThe lifestyle choices form the foundation of good health.

Lifestyle and cancer factors

It is estimated that the modifiable lifestyle factors cause up to 42% of new cases of cancer in the United States, which means that almost half of all cancers are potentially avoidable. The main contributors include the regime, physical activity,, weight management And alcohol consumption. ObesityIn particular, is a major risk factor for various types of cancer.

Inflammation, obesity and chronic disease

Chronic inflammation and obesity are the main engines of many health problems, in particular cancer,, Metabolic disorders And liver disease. Inflammation can be triggered by:

These factors disrupt the natural balance of the body and create an environment where the disease can prosper.

Nutrition: the power of whole foods

A Full diet based on plants is one of the most effective strategies to reduce the risk of cancer and support recovery. But what exactly does that mean?

Whole foods are at least and resemble their natural shape. Examples include:

• Fruits and vegetables

• Legumes and nuts

• Eggs, seafood and lean meats

• Herbs and spices

• Whole grains and dairy alternatives based on plants

Treatment methods such as freezing, roasting and grinding are generally acceptable if they do not remove nutritional value. Avoid ultra-transformed foods that are chemically changed, stripped of natural ingredients and loaded with additives such as artificial flavors, preservatives and excess sugar, fat and salt. These include:

• Transformed meats (bacon, cold meat, sausage)

• Fried foods (fries, chicken nuggets)

• Sugary drinks

• Popcorn in the microwave

• Red meat

• Excess alcohol

These foods have been linked to a higher risk of cancer and other chronic diseases. Focus on creating meals that include:

• A variety of colored vegetables

• Whole grains like oats and brown rice

• Enough proteins, in particular wild fished fish (acronym: smash-cod: salmon, mackerel, anchovies, sardines, herring and cod)

• Healthy fats like extra virgin olive oil, nuts, seeds and avocado

The goal is to eat with conscience and feed your body with nutrients that support healing.

The movement counts

Regular physical activity Not only helps weight management, but also reduces inflammation, improves mood and supports better sleep. Even light exercise, like walking, can have significant advantages.

Make lasting changes

Changing habits is not easy, but with good mentality and good tools, it is possible to build a healthier life.

1. Make a plan that works for you. Define realistic, specific goals And note them. Whether it’s walking 20 minutes a day or cutting soda, the consistency is the key.

2. Start small and divide the long -term objectives into manageable weekly tasks. Small victories trust And keep you motivated.

3. Focus on a change at a time. Try to change everything can be overwhelming. Prioritize behavior at a time until it becomes a habit.

4. Find a boyfriend. Have a friend Or a family member joining you on your trip can strengthen responsibility and make the process more pleasant.

5. Ask for support. Do not hesitate to reach out to a support grouphealth coach or mental health professional. Sometimes the use of a professional support person can make a big difference by staying on the right track.

You are not alone in this trip

The path of each survivor is different, but you don’t have to sail it alone. Lifestyle changes may seem intimidating, but they are also stimulating. At each stage – whether it is a healthier meal, a walk in the block or a night of sleeping sleep – you recover your health and your future.

To find out more about the services offered at the Parkview Physicians Group – Integrative Medicine, please visit our website here. To plan a new patient meeting and establish care with one of our providers, call our office at 260-672-6590. Or contact your primary care provider to ask you how they can help you make healthier life choices.