Weight Loss After Cancer: 8 Tips for Recovery

Weight Loss After Cancer: New Telehealth Program Offers Support and Guidance

Finding sustainable weight loss strategies can be challenging, and this is especially true for cancer survivors. Fortunately,a new,free telehealth program called Your Health is Calling is offering evidence-based support to help navigate these complexities. The program combines the expertise of dietitians,cancer survivors,and an exercise physiologist to provide personalized guidance.

The Link Between Weight and Cancer

Excess weight is a notable risk factor, not only for developing 12 different types of cancer, but also for chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. According to researcher Karen Basen-Engquist, Ph.D., weight also plays a role in the risk of developing a second cancer for those who have already been diagnosed.

Researchers are actively investigating why excess weight increases cancer risk. One prevailing theory suggests that rapid cell division, common in overweight individuals, increases the likelihood of errors leading to uncontrolled cell growth. Excess body weight can also trigger inflammation, insulin resistance, and elevated estrogen levels – all factors that can accelerate cell multiplication.

Navigating Weight Loss During and After Cancer Treatment

While the essential equation for weight loss – consuming fewer calories than you burn – remains consistent, cancer can significantly alter the approach. “Cancer may change the way you approach weight loss,” explains Basen-Engquist. Weight loss can be an unwanted side affect of both cancer and its treatments, leading to negative associations with the process. Conversely, some cancer treatments can cause weight gain, creating a unique challenge for survivors attempting to lose weight post-treatment.

“I think there’s a little bit of an extra frustration that they might have, although certainly weight loss is frustrating for a lot of people,” says garza. “But for cancer survivors, it’s often tied to a really tough time in their lives.” Therefore, a compassionate and individualized approach is equally important.Maintaining adequate nutrition while losing weight is paramount. Basen-Engquist recommends a balanced diet rich in protein,fats,carbohydrates,fruits,and vegetables. MD Anderson dietitians suggest filling two-thirds of your plate with whole grains, vegetables, fruits, beans, nuts, and seeds, and the remaining third with lean protein.

Physical activity is the other crucial component of weight loss. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week. The “talk test” can help differentiate between the two: moderate exercise allows for conversation, while vigorous exercise limits you to a few words.

Starting Small and Seeking Support

Weight loss can feel overwhelming, and quick-fix solutions are rarely sustainable.Experts recommend focusing on small, gradual changes to a healthy diet. giselle Garza suggests creating weekly action plans with achievable goals, such as tracking calories, starting a morning walk, or choosing a healthy option when dining out. Regular check-ins are essential to assess progress and make adjustments.

You don’t have to embark on this journey alone. Several free programs offered by MD Anderson can provide support:

• TEXT2MOVE: An 8-week study providing fitness encouragement via text and a fitness tracker.
• Active Living After Cancer: A 12-week program in Texas combining discussions on physical activity and survivorship with exercise sessions.
• Your health is Calling: Inspired by tobacco quitlines, this telehealth program provides personalized health coaching, supplies (including a scale and fitness tracker), and optional text support. The pilot program saw an average weight loss of just over six pounds in participants after eight weeks. The program is open to cancer survivors across all states who have completed active treatment and can be reached at 713-563-4625.

Basen-Engquist hopes Your Health is Calling will provide accessible, evidence-backed support to cancer survivors without a significant financial burden. “To improve the overall health of cancer survivors, and also reduce the risks of second primary cancers, it’s critically important for us to provide a practical and easy-to-use weight loss program,” she says.

For more facts or to request an appointment,visit MD Anderson online or call 1-877-632-6789.