Exercise to Limit Side Effects of Chemo or Radiation

The effects of chemotherapy go beyond fatigue and hair loss. They include weight gain (or loss), nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. So anything one can do to mitigate them is probably worthwhile.

University of Missouri-Columbia researchers have investigated the possible benefits of exercise in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy or radiation. They found that exercise decreased the percentage of body fat, but in addition improved physical function (stair climbing or walking distance), and eased symptoms such as pain, nausea, and vomiting. This resulted in modest improvements in quality-of-life measurements.

We always tout the benefits of exercise, and we’re happy to report these results, even if they aren’t entirely unexpected. The risk of depression and poor mood during cancer therapy is obvious, and anything that can counter this aspect is worth undertaking.