The synergistic effect of physical activity and nutrition to improve the quality of life in breast cancer patients: a systemic review

Abstract

[Purpose] Medical recommendations for balanced control of exercise, physical activity, and nutritional intake after breast cancer diagnosis remain unclear. Therefore, this review aims to summarize effective exercise methods and dietary opinions by reviewing clinical trial results.[Methods] We systematically reviewed studies that evaluated 1) the relationship between exercise methods and quality of life improvement in patients with breast cancer and 2) the recommendations for physical activity, exercise, nutrition, and potential ways to improve life after breast cancer. To conduct this literature review, we searched the PubMed database for articles published until October 1, 2022, using the terms “physical activity OR exercise,” “breast cancer,” and “nutrition.” After a primary review of the retrieved articles, we included clinical trials in this systematic review.[Results] We hypothesized that physical activity improves the quality of life after the onset of breast cancer, suggesting that a balanced approach to aerobic exercise and resistance exercise increases the efficacy of anticancer treatment. From a nutritional point of view, it is recommended that both physical activity and diet management are necessary for patients with breast cancer.[Conclusion] Customized exercise and diet can help with weight loss, the reduction of cancer-induced fatigue, the regulation of hormonal changes, the reduction of inflammatory factors, and the improvement of mental health and vitality. Understanding the integrated mechanisms of physical activity and nutritional balance will improve the quality of life of patients with breast cancer. Therefore, it is necessary to continuously advance exercise programs and develop an alimentary balance control program.