Well it's been a good hot minute since I last posted. A quick update and then a GUEST blog post! I'm half way through my 3rd semester of Physical Therapy school. I'm gearing up for my first clinical rotation at the end of April...scary and exciting. I'm running a half marathon right before finals week in mid-April. I have added some distance running, but not a whole lot. I'm sticking to my weightlifting, Crossfit, HIIT, and getting about 2 runs per week with one of those being long(er) distance. As one of Matt's good friends said last year after the North Face Bear Mountain 1/2 marathon, that distance can be treated like a no-notice deployment. For fun, we are 'competing' in the Crossfit Games open. They announce a weekly WOD and you post your score online after you complete it. My scores aren't anything to call home about, but it's still fun. Considering I work out a couple of times per week given my crazy school and life schedule and have only Crossfitted since October/November 2012, I'd say I'm doing pretty well.
This guest blog post is from Melanie Brown. We 'met' through virtual blog world and she contacted me about writing a guest post. The topic is cancer and the importance of staying healthy. Hopefully this information can be useful to some of you and/or your loved ones.
Cancer Diagnosis: The Necessity of Fitness
The diagnosis of cancer may be the most distressing event ever experienced in a
person’s life. The fear of a future with an unknown outcome may bring on the most
devastating emotions of anxiety, depression and loss of appetite. However, the
person who has been diagnosed can do much in preparation for the life-saving
medical interventions that may ensue. Keeping or pursuing a strong body with good
nutrition, a healthy weight and regular exercise can help those with cancer to
alleviate depression, stave off anxiety, reduce fatigue and safely continue the
process of treatment.
Cancer Treatment and Nutrition
Medical interventions, such as chemotherapies and radiations, can weaken the
muscles and challenge the immune system of the body. A diet in lean high-quality
proteins, fresh vegetables and fruits may help to repair the tissues that are affected
by these therapies. Include plenty of fresh water and juices that may help the body
flush out toxins from noxious chemicals and maintain the healing properties of
hydration. The loss of appetite can cause weight loss that may interfere with the
continuation of cancer treatment therapies. For people who receive radiation
therapies, such as those affected with mesothelioma, protein shakes mixed with fruit
may help to maintain a healthy weight and assure the completion of the course of
treatment.
The Need for Endurance and Fitness
The maintenance of a healthy weight also includes a proportionate amount of
muscle mass. Strength training with even light weights can be beneficial in building
and maintaining muscle mass during treatment. Aerobic exercise can improve
circulation and provide more oxygen to the cells of the body. Walking or jogging can
assist in weight loss for lean and strong muscles. Exercise also boosts the mood by
stimulating brain chemicals that fight off depression, reverse fatigue and decrease
anxiety. Working out as tolerated may also improve or maintain self-confidence and
increase a positive attitude towards life.
Exercise is an Integral Part of Recovery
To prepare for cancer intervention, experts agree that exercise, proper nutrition and
a positive attitude are imperative to prepare and maintain the body. In times of
fatigue and appetite loss, people can be creative and use high-quality supplements
to retain a healthy body weight and the proper balance of protein and nutrients.
According to researchers, cancer patients who exercised on a regular basis
experienced less fatigue and a significant decrease in nausea. Patients also retained
more lean tissue, a higher level of endurance, a more restful sleep and reported a
better overall feeling of wellness.
