3 Tips to Fight Fatigue After Cancer

Fatigue is one of the most common side effects of cancer treatment. And it can last for days, months, even years after treatment has ended.

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Below are three top tips on how to fight fatigue and get your energy back:

1. GET ENOUGH SLEEP

The quality of sleep is important as well as the number of hours. Aim for at least eight hours, although it varies from person to person. Test it out and see what makes you feel best.

2. drink plenty of water

Make sure you stay hydrated. A good rule of thumb is to drink (in ounces) half your body weight (in pounds) every day.

>> Read more: Five Tips to Stay Hydrated <<

3. exercise

Although it sounds counterintuitive, exercise can help combat fatigue.

I came across this article and found the author’s perspective on fighting fatigue through exercise so helpful.

She sets herself up for a regular routine using something that works for her. And she adds in other motivators – like upbeat music – to keep her going.

And that’s the point of exercise – to do something you enjoy and make it a habit. You can still change it up, but if you aim to exercise at the same time on the same days, then over time it will become automatic.

⇒ Or just exercise whenever you have an extra five minutes to spare.

I keep a rebounder / mini-trampoline in my living room and jump on it for a handful of minutes while I wait for the water to boil. Then I find another few minutes to jump later in the day, and so on.

When you add it up, it can come out to 15-20 minutes of exercise that you’ve just snuck into your day!

Jumping also increases energy, bone density, and lymphatic drainage, all important for cancer recovery.

Click to check out two types of mini-trampolines: With a bar for stability and without the bar.

The brand I have does not have a stability bar, and I’m fine with that, however, it’s no longer sold. If you get one with a bar and don’t want to use it, you can generally just remove the bar and use the trampoline without it.

⇒ Features to consider when buying a mini-trampoline:

Look for one with covered springs so your foot won’t go through the gaps. They come with either bungee cords or metal springs – I prefer the springs, as most of the bungee-type aren’t covered and I’m afraid my foot will fall through the gap.
They also come in folding or non-folding. Mine doesn’t fold and that’s totally fine with me. I don’t need one; I feel it’s sturdier and I just prop it up against the wall when not in use.