When diagnosed with cancer, it can feel like your life is turned upside down. Suddenly everything changes, and it can be overwhelming and scary.

But there is something you can do to regain some control and become an active participant in your treatment – transform your lifestyle.

Eat a Cancer-Fighting Diet

The first and most crucial step is to change your diet. A diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can help your body fight cancer.

On the other hand, a diet high in processed foods, saturated fats, and added sugar can contribute to the growth of cancer cells. Aim to eat five to nine servings of fruits and vegetables every day and choose lean protein sources such as chicken, fish, beans, and tofu. Add healthy fats such as nuts, seeds, and avocado to your diet. And drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Exercise Regularly

Next, incorporate regular exercise into your routine. Exercise has been shown to help lower the risk of many types of cancer as well as improve outcomes for cancer patients. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.

You can choose from a variety of activities such as brisk walking, biking, swimming, yoga, or weightlifting. Find something that you enjoy, and stick with it.

Reduce Stress

Lowering stress levels can also benefit cancer patients. Chronic stress can weaken the immune system and contribute to inflammation, which can promote the growth of cancer cells.

Practices such as meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and spending time in nature can help reduce stress levels. Find what works for you and make it a part of your daily routine.

Get Plenty of Sleep

Sleep is crucial for our overall health and well-being, and it’s even more important for those with cancer. Our bodies heal and repair themselves during sleep, so getting enough rest can aid in recovery.

Related Article Revamp Your Habits and Conquer Cancer

Aim for seven to eight hours of sleep every night and create a relaxing bedtime routine to help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.

Quit Smoking

If you smoke, it’s time to quit. Smoking is a major risk factor for many types of cancer, and quitting can improve treatment outcomes and reduce the risk of cancer recurrence.

Talk to your doctor about smoking cessation resources such as nicotine replacement therapy, support groups, or medication.

Reduce Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol consumption can increase the risk of many types of cancer, such as breast, liver, and esophageal cancer. If you choose to drink, limit your consumption to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.

And if you don’t drink, there’s no need to start.

Stay Connected

Lastly, staying connected with loved ones and support groups can help cancer patients overcome feelings of isolation and depression. Join a support group for cancer patients or connect with others online who are going through similar experiences.

Lean on your friends and family for their love and support.

Conclusion

Transforming your lifestyle may not be a cure for cancer, but it can help you become an active participant in your treatment and improve your overall quality of life.

By eating a cancer-fighting diet, exercising regularly, reducing stress, getting plenty of sleep, quitting smoking, reducing alcohol consumption, and staying connected, you can give your body the best chance to fight cancer.