As a new year begins, we’re once again facing the question of New Year’s resolutions. As a cancer patient, your goals might look different this year, so making tangible promises to yourself that you can keep can be even more fulfilling and helpful than ever before.
We compiled a helpful list of realistic New Year’s resolutions to get you started.
1) Exercise on a regular basis
If you’re not feeling well, you certainly shouldn’t overdo exercise and put additional stress on your body. According to the American Cancer Society, exercise in some capacity is safe for most cancer patients and can result in better physical functioning, less tiredness, and less anxiety.
Talk to your team about your limitations and put a plan in place that works for you. Additionally, check out the American College of Sports Medicine’s Moving Through Cancer program for guidance.
To learn more about how movement can help improve your quality of life and treatment outcomes, listen to our discussion with Dana-Farber Cancer Institute’s Dr. Jennifer Ligibel.
2) Establish a healthy – or healthier – diet
A nutritious diet is vital to maintaining a healthy weight, even if you’re going through cancer treatment and not always feeling like food is your friend. Make a checklist of what you’re allowed to eat, and what you still enjoy eating, and try to keep your daily calorie intake in check.
Eat a mix of plant-based and lean proteins, try to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables each day, and try liquid meals if you’re still not eating enough and losing too much weight. Alternatively, try eating smaller meals throughout the day to help with potential bouts of nausea.
Learn more about ways to optimize your nutrition from Rachel Beller MS, RDN, here.
3) Surround yourself with the right people
Reach out to your support system, be vulnerable, and ask for help when you need it. You don’t need to be or feel alone when there are support networks out there full of others who are going through cancer, too. Alternatively, don’t be afraid to set boundaries and say no to events or gatherings if you need to take some time for yourself.
4) Find a form of mindfulness that you enjoy
Prioritize your mental health and discover a mindfulness strategy that works for you. By taking a few moments to slow down and focus on the present, mindfulness can help reduce stress, pain, anxiety, and depression. Some forms of mindfulness you can explore include meditation, breathing exercises, journaling for self-reflection, or a slow walk.
5) Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption
If you smoke, the new year is a great opportunity to quit smoking. It’s the leading preventable cause of death, and quitting lowers your chance of developing many types of cancers and reduces the risk of diabetes. The American Cancer Society has several resources that can help you quit.
Findings show that alcohol increases the risk of developing seven types of cancer, so it’s best to limit the alcoholic beverages you consume.
It can be overwhelming to make lifestyle changes while managing your cancer diagnosis, so be sure to talk to your care team for additional support and strategies that can help you reach your goals.
If you would like to connect with an Outcomes4Me oncology nurse practitioner at no charge through the Outcomes4Me app, using the “Ask Outcomes4Me” button.
