Most people don’t focus on their health until they get sick, and a life event like a serious disease often becomes the wake-up call needed to start making healthier choices and improve overall well-being. Throughout numerous conversations with cancer patients, specifically men diagnosed with prostate cancer, certain common lifestyle changes and habits have been observed. Here are eight key changes that men make when they get cancer:
1. Cancer Patients Lose Weight
Cancer diagnosis is often accompanied by the realization that maintaining a healthy weight is vital. Losing excess weight can not only help patients manage their disease but also prevent complications arising from obesity.
2. Cancer Patients Eat Less Red Meat
Meat, especially red meat, is often linked to an increased risk of cancer. Upon a cancer diagnosis, many patients start reducing their red meat consumption and making healthier choices in their diet.
3. Cancer Patients Exercise More
Regular exercise is known to have numerous benefits on physical and mental health, as well as in managing cancer. Additionally, exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and helps improve overall quality of life during and after cancer treatment.
4. Cancer Patients Develop Stronger Community and Family Relations
A cancer diagnosis often prompts individuals to evaluate the importance of close relationships and the support they receive from family and friends. Developing a strong social network can have a positive impact on mental health and help patients better cope with the challenges posed by their disease.
5. Cancer Patients Reassess What Makes Them Happy
Living with cancer can be a life-changing experience, and many patients find themselves reassessing their priorities and focusing on activities that bring them happiness and well-being.
6. Cancer Patients Learn to Relax and Meditate
Stress management becomes crucial for cancer patients. Learning to relax, practicing meditation, and incorporating mindfulness exercises can help reduce stress and improve mental health.
7. Cancer Patients Have More of a Plant-Based Diet
A plant-based diet can provide essential nutrients, boost immunity, and reduce inflammation in the body. Adding more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes to the diet can play a crucial role in managing cancer and promoting overall health.
8. Cancer Patients Eat to Promote Better Immunity and Prevent Disease
Cancer patients often start focusing on eating a nutrient-dense diet to support their immune system and help their body fight against the disease. This includes incorporating foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other essential nutrients needed to maintain good health.
The key takeaway from these lifestyle changes made by cancer patients is that one shouldn’t wait until they get sick to focus on better health and well-being. You can start making healthier choices today to improve your overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. As Tony Robbins’ “Rocking Chair Test” illustrates, imagine yourself in 10 years reflecting on the things you wish you had done differently and use that as motivation to make changes now.
Live life with a conscious awareness of the decisions and choices you make every day and how they contribute to your overall health and wellness. Start making better decisions today, and take small steps towards maximizing your health. Remember, the best time to prioritize your health is now, before the wake-up call comes.
