Oncology Self-Help

Cancer: Exercise, Nutrition and Support

According to many doctors, a healthy attitude can help the body fight disease. A positive outlook and a focus on doing things that are good for you and that make you feel good, can help patients play a major role in cancer treatment.

Exercise is one of the keys to guarding health. It can help the body fight off infection, improve the quality of life, and lift your spirits during treatment. It is important to consult a doctor before beginning an exercise program.

Helpful Tips:

Make a habit of going outdoors every day with your spouse, another family member, or a friend.
Perform stretching exercises while watching TV.
Perform light tasks outside (e.g., rake the leaves, light yard work).
Play a relaxing sport such as shuffleboard or croquet.
If possible, exercise right before eating to improve appetite.

Eat Smart

Eating well is a critical part of cancer treatment. A healthy diet should be high in plant-based foods, rather than meats, and include plenty of grains, legumes (beans), and colorful produce. This will help the body fightinfection and handle side effects better.

Here is a list of common foods that can be part of a healthy diet. Most are plant-based, but some are not. Include as many of these foods in your diet as possible.

Oranges	Apples	Tomatoes
Salmon	Peas	Oats
Carrots	Soy	Wild rice
Bananas	Low-fat milk	Tuna
Strawberries	Turkey	Navy beans
Potatoes	Lettuce	Grapes
Corn	Chicken	Pineapple

Eat several small meals a day
In addition to eating the right foods, it is important to eat enough food to help the body fight off infection. In many cases, 8 or 9 small meals a day, instead of 3 large ones, is the best way to go. This can help the body get the most out of the food, and help maintain stable blood sugar levels.

To make eating more appealing, try arranging the food in an attractive way on the plate, or watch TV while during meals. A variety of different foods, with attractive colors and smells, also may help.