Physical exercise as cancer prevention
According to some studies analyzed by Personal Trainers, exercise reduces glucose and insulin levels and raises corticosteroid hormone levels, also raises levels of anti-inflammatory cytokines and increases the expression of insulin receptors in cancer cells.
It is also known that physical activity increases the production of interferon, stimulates the enzyme glycogen, improves the function of leukocytes and accelerates the metabolism of ascorbic acid, this makes it a contribution in preventing the formation of cancerous tumors.
Many studies also associate obesity with the risk of developing cancer; one of the explanations is the fact that obesity is a chronic, inflammatory disease, since adipose tissue, especially white, secretes more than 50 substances, among which are related the famous cytokines, mentioned above; therefore for individuals who have a healthy lifestyle with practice and exercise and a balanced diet, this risk decreases considerably.
"The obese are more likely to develop breast cancer, especially women after menopause. In the obese woman, there is still the frequency of cervical cancer. Other types of cancer, such as the pancreas and the esophagus, are also linked to weight, "said Fernando da Cunha, director of the Campinas Oncology Center in an interview with Brazilian National Radio Program
A comparative study of resting heart rate shows that when there is a low resting heart rate indicating good fitness there is less incidence of cancer.
It is also known that exercise in moderate / intense intensity assists in strengthening the immune system, as opposed to high-intensity exercises (such as marathons) that depress it.
The practice of physical exercise by cancer patients should be addressed, due to its numerous benefits, provided that planned and guided by duly certified exercise experts, taking into account the guidelines advised by the reference organizations.
The benefits of physical exercise can be observed from the psychological and physiological point of view. It is proven to reduce anxiety and depression, increase stamina, physical competence, self-esteem and self-control. People who practice regular physical activity report an improvement in quality of life. In terms of physiological effects, we emphasize improved functional capacity, increased muscle strength and flexibility, improved body composition (more muscle and less body fat), increased hemoglobin levels and immune cell activity, such as reduction fatigue, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, so common in cancer patients.
Text by Laura Sousa