There is convincing evidence that physical activity is associated with a reduced risk of cancers of the colon and breast. Several studies also have reported links between physical activity and a reduced risk of cancers of the prostate, lung, and lining of the uterus. Women with breast cancer who walk one or more hours per week at an average pace have better survival rates than those who exercise less or not at all. Physical activity also reduces development of colon cancer.
Makes intuitive sense to many, but how do we explain these results? Physical activity may protect against cancer and tumor development through its role in altering inflammatory and immune factors, some of which have now been clearly shown to influence cancer risk. Certainly physical activity impacts elimination pathways such as breathing, sweating and increasing gut transit times; metabolic pathways such as hormone metabolism, insulin regulation, and liver metabolism; and circulatory pathways by enhancing circulation and lymphatic flow.
All of these mechanisms involve energy balance and efficiency. Whether enhanced with exercise, or nutrition, acupuncture, herbs or supplements, or all of the above, the body’s ability to regulate itself – its energetics – into a state of balance is the paramount method of protection from cancer and other chronic illnesses.
How does the body do this? In another 50–100 years we may have a good diagram of the process. Meanwhile, we can enable the body’s elegance, simplicity and efficiency to achieve homeostatic balance. Cancer is preventable. Everyone benefits from good diet and exercise, and every individual has unique requirements that will turbo-charge results. We use 7 integrated medical disciplines. What are you using?