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Cancer & Exercise

The University of California at Berkeley recently provided their findings and options regarding Cancer and how to best prevent the same. In 1996, I provided an informal health lecture regarding the very same topic to a group of cancer survivors, but was very discouraged to realize that this particular group was not interested in hearing anything which might indicate a change of lifestyle was necessary. Nor were they ready to make any concessions regarding limiting the amount of those "favorite" foods they had become accustomed to, let alone put forth any real effort into the theory regarding how exercise could strengthen their bodies attack against free radicals activity. In fact, it is my opinion that these individuals were really looking for a "quick-fix magic pill" which would guarantee a long and healthy life. Needless to say, I was aghast! For were it me, I would have been willing to go to any lengths to protect and strengthen my body and not only lengthen my life, but enhance the quality of it

Today however, many Universities such as the University of California which I am quoting here, are advocating just such changes in everyones lifestyle. Exercise reduces ones chances of developing heart disease, diabetes, stroke and osteoporosis. It helps to ward off osteoarthritis and the mental decline that can develop in middle age. But it might possibly even be a good defense against colon cancer. Exercise helps in maintaining ones' ideal weight, boosts the metabolism and strengthens the Immune System. It can prevent obesity and exercisers have a lower risk of dying prematurely from chronic diseases than do sedentary people.

Exercise stimulates the internal organs into performing optimally, thereby preventing fluid accumulation and/or constipation. It enhances the circulation which in turn, increases the oxygen utilization All of which increases ones' available energy. It stimulates the production of hormones which affect ones mood, and can overcome some forms of mild depression caused by hormonal imbalances. Must I say more?

Yet often the first reply to such information are all of those excuses of why one simply cannot exercise; I'm too tired, I have a bad back, I have bad feet, I have a weak heart, I don't have time, I don't have enough energy, and on and on and on. Certainly one with diabetes or a bad heart should surely consult with his/her doctor before consulting an exercise program. But, often walking or water exercises are encouraged even for those with such complaints. An one needs for walking essentially is a good pair of shoes.

See your medical physician and stop procrastinating and get started! See the fall leaves this year from a bike.