I suspect we all know exercise is good for us but it does sometimes take quite a bit of effort to get out there and do some! Apparently the older you get, the harder it becomes (I can confirm this is true!). I did write about this in 2014 (Exercise - it's a free prescription). In fact, my blog was actually created to document my return to fitness and good health 12 months ago!
I was prompted to write this blog after discovering a piece of advice for NET Cancer patients, specifically those with carcinoid syndrome. The advice is one of those catchy 'single letter' lists called the "5 E's" of things to avoid - one of which is 'Exercise' (I intend to cover the 5 E's in a future post so look out for that!). Clearly 'Exercise' needs putting into some context as everybody needs to do some even if it's only a walk to the shops or some gardening.
There is a lot to be said for cancer patients to do some form of exercise and I know from my own experience, and from some really good on-line evidence, that it does have excellent medicinal value. For example, it can keep your weight in check, makes you stronger and keeps you feeling youthful (mind over matter is a good thing!). I also believe exercise can make you a happier person? Last year, my wife and I committed to an 84 mile trek along Hadrian's Wall in North England and we spent 3-4 months preparing. I was very thankful to her for continuously dragging my butt out of bed and into the forest close-by. During this period, we both felt less stressed out, less anxious, we slept better and we were generally happier. I suspect there is some scientific evidence about why this happens i.e. exercise releases 'happy chemicals' into/interacting with your brain, mostly 'Dopamine' and 'Endorphins'.
In my own case, I'm currently non-syndromic since major surgery and monthly injections of Lanreotide. I therefore suspect the risk of exercise causing me problems is pretty low. In any event, I'm unlikely to indulge in anything really strenuous! I also know many carcinoid patients who exercise frequently. However, I know from reading on-line forums that many people suffer from varying degrees of carcinoid syndrome and I suspect the advice is directed to those who may be more at risk. That said, I still believe most people would benefit from some exercise and this is something their doctors might advise on.
Exercise safely people. I'm off for a long walk :-)
