Chemotherapy is a treatment method for cancer, where drugs are used to kill cancer cells. However, chemotherapy can take a toll on a person’s body, and may have various side effects, including damage to the heart.

Nevertheless, research has suggested that exercising during chemotherapy can protect the heart and mitigate the risk of heart damage. Here’s how.

Chemotherapy and the heart

Chemotherapy drugs target cells that divide rapidly, such as cancer cells. However, other cells in the body also divide quickly, such as those present in the hair follicles, and the cells lining the gastrointestinal tract.

Moreover, chemotherapy drugs can also damage the cells of organs that don’t typically divide quickly, such as the heart. Therefore, chemotherapy can increase the risk of heart damage and may lead to heart failure in the future.

How exercise helps the heart during chemotherapy

Exercise is known to have various health benefits. Physical activity can lower the risk of developing various chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and hypertension.

However, when it comes to heart protection during chemotherapy, here’s how exercise helps.

Reduces inflammation

Chemotherapy drugs can cause inflammation in various parts of the body. Inflammation in the heart can lead to tissue damage that can eventually lead to heart failure.

Exercise can help reduce this inflammation by producing anti-inflammatory proteins that help repair the damaged tissues.

Increases blood flow

Exercising can increase blood flow throughout the body, including the heart. When the heart receives better blood flow, it receives more oxygen and nutrients needed to function properly.

This can help mitigate the damaging effects of chemotherapy drugs on the heart.

Strengthens the heart muscle

The heart is a muscle, and like any muscle, it needs to be exercised to maintain its strength. Exercise can help strengthen the heart muscle and improve its function. This can help the heart function better even during chemotherapy treatment.

How much exercise is needed?

When it comes to exercising during chemotherapy, the amount of exercise needed varies depending on the person’s health status and the type of cancer being treated.

However, according to the American Cancer Society, adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise every week.

It’s important to note that people undergoing chemotherapy should not engage in vigorous physical activity without consulting their doctor first. Depending on the person’s health status, some exercises may be more suitable than others.

Types of exercises during chemotherapy

During chemotherapy, some exercises may be better suited than others, depending on the person’s health status and the type of cancer being treated. Here are some types of exercises that can be done during chemotherapy:.

Aerobic exercise

Aerobic exercise involves using your large muscles in a rhythmic way to increase your heart rate and breathing. Some examples of aerobic exercises include walking, cycling, running, swimming, and dancing.

Aerobic exercises help improve cardiovascular health, increase blood flow, and reduce inflammation.

Strength training

Strength training involves using your muscles to lift weights or perform resistance exercises. Some examples of strength training exercises include lifting weights, push-ups, and lunges.

Strength training can help strengthen the muscles, including the heart, and improve overall physical fitness.

Yoga and stretching

Yoga and stretching exercises involve using your body weight to stretch your muscles. Some examples of yoga and stretching exercises include downward dog, child’s pose, and seated forward bend.

Yoga and stretching exercises help improve flexibility, reduce stress, and improve overall physical fitness.

Conclusion

Chemotherapy can have various side effects, including damage to the heart. However, exercising during chemotherapy can help protect the heart and mitigate the risk of heart damage.

Exercise can reduce inflammation, increase blood flow, and strengthen the heart muscle.

While the amount and type of exercise may vary depending on the person’s health status and the type of cancer being treated, engaging in regular physical activity can help improve overall physical fitness and protect the heart during chemotherapy.