How to care for your body post Chemo

Over the recent years, cancer has been the monster creeping in our homes, distorting the peace, bring with it all this emotional, physical and financial strains with it, so when someone makes it through chemotherapy, that is a win, a thing to celebrate, as you have defeated this cruel monster, and you are the real MVP, a #cancersoldier.

Here are some tips on how to take of your body after going through chemotherapy;

1. Exercise; 

Working out has a way of getting you relaxed and keeping your mind occupied. It also increases your sense of well being after chemo’ and can speed up your recovery. Exercise has many benefits, and some early studies suggested that it may also reduce the risk of a cancer recurrence and reduce the risk of dying of cancer. Many cancer survivors are concerned about cancer recurrence and want to do all they can to avoid it.

• Eat a balanced diet:

Vary your diet to include lots of fruits and vegetables, as well as whole grains. When it comes to selecting your entrees, the American Cancer Society recommends that cancer survivors:

• Eat at least 2.5 cups of fruits and vegetables every day.
• Choose healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, such as those found in fish and walnuts
• Select proteins that are low in saturated fat, such as fish, lean meats, eggs, nuts, seeds and legumes
• Opt for healthy sources of carbohydrates, such as whole grains, legumes, and fruits and vegetables.

This combination of foods will ensure that you’re eating plenty of the vitamins and nutrients you need to help make your body strong.

• Maintain a healthy weight.

You may have gained or lost weight during treatment. Try to get your weight to a healthy level. Talk to your doctor about what a healthy weight is for you and the best way to go about achieving that goal weight.

• Reduce Stress;

As a cancer survivor, you may find that the physical, emotional and social effects have taken a toll on your psyche. Though there’s no evidence that managing stress improves chances of cancer survival, using effective coping strategies to deal with stress can greatly improve your quality of life by helping relieve depression, anxiety, and symptoms related to the cancer and its treatment.

Effective stress management strategies may include:

• Relaxation or meditation techniques, such as mindfulness training
• Counseling.
• Cancer support groups.
• Medications for depression or anxiety
• Exercise.
• Interacting with friends and family.

• Do what you can;

While you may worry that it will take an entire overhaul of your lifestyle to achieve all these goals, do what you can and make changes slowly. Easing into a healthy diet or regular exercise routine can make it more likely that you’ll stick with these changes for the rest of your life.