The benefits of exercise are well documented: good mental health, weight management, strong bones and muscles, and improving our ability to do everyday activities.<\/p>\n
Here is another important reason to stay active \u2013 reducing your risk for cancer.<\/p>\n
Getting and keeping a strong, healthy body improves its ability to deliver oxygen to cells. According to Jomel Labayog, MD,<\/a> hematologist and medical oncologist with OSF HealthCare, healthy cells grow and replicate properly, helping us to avoid cancer.<\/p>\n \u201cOur cells are constantly replicating themselves. A vast majority of our cells are replaced every seven to 10 years,\u201d Dr. Labayog said. \u201cCancers and other ailments often result from unhealthy cells replicating. A tumor can result, and the new growth starts its lifecycle.<\/p>\n \u201cHealthy cells will most likely reproduce healthy cells and vice versa. Physical activity and good nutrition<\/a> help to flush out toxins, deliver oxygen to cells and provide the necessary nutrients to keep us healthy.\u201d<\/p>\n