Never underestimate the power of short bursts of activity as it can silently guard you from deadly diseases like cancer. A new research published in the International Journal of Cancer suggests just 10 minutes of exercise every day can stop bowel cancer growth and aid in DNA damage repair. The promising new study reiterates the perks of an active life and perils of a sedentary one.
Colon cancer has become one of the leading causes of death in America and the cases are especially on rise among younger adults, pointing towards wrong eating habits and inactive lifestyle.
According to NHS UK, bowel cancer develops in the large bowel which includes the colon and rectum. Bowel cancer can also be referred to as colorectal cancer.
Just 10 minutes of exercise can save you from bowel cancer
Old age or personal history of colon cancer could increase the chances of having bowel cancer, but lifestyle factors play an important role in preventing it. Mayoclinic says colon cancer and rectal cancer could be linked to a Western diet which is low in fibre and high in fat.
However, staying inactive is also one key factor that could be fuelling bowel cancer in youth. The new study adds to the evidence that movement and exercise aids in halting bowel cancer growth.
Researchers from Newcastle University have explained how short bout of exercise helps in reducing bowel cancer risk by triggering a rapid molecular change in the blood.
To decode the underlying mechanism, they collected blood samples from 30 overweight or obese, but otherwise healthy, men before and after a 10-12 minute exercise session – a cycling test. The bowel cancer cells were then exposed to blood serum before and after exercise. Exercising amped up concentration of 13 proteins in serum linked to inflammation reduction, improving blood vessel function, and metabolism, found the scientists.
These exercise-induced molecule when applied to bowel cancer cells in lab, could alter activity of 1,364 genes, including those involved in DNA repair, energy production, and cancer cell growth, say scientists.
“These results suggest that exercise doesn’t just benefit healthy tissues, it may also create a more hostile environment for cancer cells to grow,” said the research.
“Even a single workout can make a difference. One bout of exercise, lasting just 10 minutes, sends powerful signals to the body,” it added.
Every step counts
Sitting is the new smoking, it’s rightly said. A study published in European Journal of Cardiovascular Medicine reminds us. Extended sedentary behaviour among WFH professionals poses a substantial cardiovascular risk.
Also, previous studies have suggested link between extended periods of sitting and increased risk of developing colorectal, endometrial, and lung cancers,” Scherezade Mama, Dr.PH, a researcher in Cancer Prevention says. Also, it raises risk of obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and premature death.
“It’s a reminder that every step, every session, counts when it comes to doing your best to protect your health,” said researcher of the current study.
Lifestyle changes for eliminating bowel cancer risk
“We should be aiming for at least 150 minutes of activity each week, such as brisk walking, cycling or swimming.
“Other changes you can make to help reduce your risk of developing bowel cancer include eating plenty of fibre from whole grains, pulses, fruits, and vegetables, avoiding processed meat and limiting red meat, being a healthy body weight, stopping smoking and cutting down on alcohol,” wrote the researchers.
Disclaimer: Always consult a doctor before starting any diet or fitness routine. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.