Move over prescription meds, there's a new drug in town
During a medical study, it was found that one drug in particular caused breast cancer survivors' fatigue to reduce and their cognitive function to improve.
And although memory loss and short attention spans are common problems for those with cancer or cancer survivors, the participants' memories were sharper and their attention spans were longer.
This oh-so effective drug you ask?
P H Y S I C A L A C T I V I T Y
(and no prescription necessary)
The effects of physical activity on cognitive function of 300 breast cancer survivors were analyzed by completing a set of questionnaires and cognitive tests that assessed different types of cognitive functioning within 2 weeks of signing up for the study.
The results showed moderate to intense physical activity (in other words, the participants who were really working up a sweat) were linked to decreased fatigue, shorter times completing tasks, and greater accuracy on working memory activities.
This is due to certain neurons and hormones that are released during aerobic exercise and causes the growth of new neurons, and recently scientists have focused on an “exercise hormone” called Irisin that is also linked to improved health and cognitive function.
Although physical activity is not the absolute cure to all, it does offer many benefits for cancer survivors. Physical activity is available to all, can cost $0.00, and can be done anywhere, anytime-- and should therefore be a standard recommendation by physicians treating cancer survivors.
sources:
https://www.healio.com/hematology-oncology/breast-cancer/news/online/%7B2d137abb-f755-4780-a1da-60eedc86f699%7D/physical-activity-may-reduce-fatigue-improve-cognitive-function-among-breast-cancer-survivors?utm_source=selligent&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=hematology%20oncology%20news&m_bt=852276749119&page=3
https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/the-athletes-way/201404/physical-activity-improves-cognitive-function