Lack of exercise, poor eating habits, obesity, an unhealthy lifestyle can lead to a number of health problems for most people. For breast cancer patients and survivors this issue takes greater importance as being obese or gaining weight after treatment is detrimental to success. Some studies have linked being overweight to poorer survival rates and also the possibility of cancer reoccurring. Higher levels of hormones elated to both higher body weight and breast cancer may play a role in cancer coming back. Regular physical activity and a healthy diet will help cut certain risks and protect from not just the dangers of breast cancer but from other diseases such as heart, diabetes etc.

Diet and nutrition

• Have at least five servings of fruits and vegetables in a day
• Avoid or reduce red meat consumption. Choose fish or chicken instead.
• Eat fresh instead of processed foods
• Grill, steam, bake instead of frying
• Choose whole grain foods
• Use either olive or canola oil for cooking
• Avoid caffeine or sugary fizzy drinks and juices
• Reduce your intake of sugar or sweets
• Limit alcohol to less than a glass per day
• Ensure you get adequate vitamins such as folic acid, vitamin C and D daily. Your doctor can advise you on this.

Exercise regularly

To maintain the right body weight its important to have physical activity at least thrice a week. Depending on your doctors advice :

• Do a moderate to brisk walk for 30 minutes at least three times a week
• Work out for 45 minutes to an hour in the gym a couple of times in the week. You can do a mix of cardio and weight training with the advice of a fitness instructor.
• If you’re not a gym person, play a sport at least twice a week. Could be tennis, squash, swimming – anything that offers you a level of effective physical activity.