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Watch an exclusive “Ask the Expert” webinar: “Advancing Breast Cancer Treatment From Trials to Clinical Practice.”
Featuring renowned breast oncologist Dr. Eleonora Teplinsky, Head, Breast and Gynecological Medical Oncology, Valley-Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Care, this session delves into the critical role of clinical trials in transforming breast cancer care, with a special focus on metastatic breast cancer (mBC).
**a summary of the discussion is below**
For many breast cancer patients, managing weight becomes a challenging and stressful part of treatment and recovery. With common side effects like menopause, weight gain from steroids, and other treatment-related changes, maintaining a “healthy” weight can feel nearly impossible. However, a cancer care expert recently shared some valuable insights that emphasize the importance of healthy habits over focusing strictly on weight.
Shift the Focus from the Scale to Healthy Habits
While maintaining a healthy weight is generally associated with lower cancer recurrence risk, this expert encourages patients to shift their focus away from the scale. Instead, prioritize sustainable lifestyle changes that support overall health, regardless of specific weight goals. Factors like muscle mass, metabolic changes, and hormone levels often affect weight after cancer treatments, making it difficult for some patients to return to their pre-treatment weight.
Key Habits for Reducing Cancer Recurrence Risk
Exercise Regularly: Regular movement is vital. Whether it’s walking, strength training, or gentle yoga, exercise supports both physical and mental health, which are crucial during cancer recovery.
Choose Nutrient-Dense Foods: Prioritize lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber-rich foods, while limiting processed sugars. These choices promote sustained energy and support immune function.
Limit Alcohol Intake: Reducing or avoiding alcohol can lower cancer recurrence risk and help with overall health.
By focusing on these healthy habits, cancer patients can create a sustainable lifestyle that supports both physical and mental well-being, rather than becoming fixated on a potentially unachievable weight goal.
The Power of Self-Compassion in Recovery
The expert also emphasized the importance of self-compassion. The body undergoes significant changes due to cancer treatments, which can make weight management more challenging than before. Remember, the number on the scale doesn’t define health. Instead, the focus should be on what’s within control—maintaining active and balanced habits that promote a healthy, fulfilling life.
In the end, by shifting the focus from weight to wellness, cancer patients can build resilience, reduce stress, and improve their quality of life, all while supporting their recovery and reducing recurrence risk.
