Just 10 minutes of exercise can help slow cancer growth, new study suggests – Muscle & Fitness

Exercise has long been known for its muscle-building, heart-saving and mind-boosting benefits, but more and more research is starting to shed light on how being active can slow the spread of cancer, with a new study suggesting that just 10 minutes of exercise can turn off the signals that lead to cancer growth. The study, conducted by researchers from England’s Newcastle University and published by the JAMA Network, showed that even a short burst of energetic exercise can trigger rapid molecular changes in the bloodstream that can halt cancer growth and speed up DNA repair.

How was the research conducted?

30 overweight or obese male and female volunteers between the ages of 50 and 78 (risk factors associated with cancer) who were otherwise healthy were asked to complete a cycling session of approximately ten minutes. After this activity, blood samples were then taken to measure 249 different proteins, and how the intervention of exercise may have affected these proteins.

Does exercise reduce the risk of cancer in the long term?

The scientists found that 13 proteins increased after this exercise, including interleukin-6 (IL-6), a protein associated with DNA and the repair of damaged cells. “These results suggest that exercise not only benefits healthy tissues, but may also create a more hostile environment for cancer cells to grow.” said dr. Samuel Orange, a clinical exercise physiologist. “…it sends powerful signals through the bloodstream that can directly influence thousands of genes in cancer cells”

It is estimated that regular physical activity can reduce the risk of colon cancer by about 20 percent. “It is an exciting insight because it opens the door to finding ways to mimic or enhance the biological effects of exercise, which could improve cancer treatment and, crucially, patient outcomes,” Orange said. “In the future, these insights could lead to new therapies that mimic the beneficial effects of exercise on the way cells repair damaged DNA and use fuel for energy.”

The study also found that the activity of genes that support mitochondrial energy metabolism is stimulated, allowing oxygen to be used more efficiently, while genes that promote rapid cell growth are essentially turned off, reducing the aggressiveness of cancer cells. “Even a single workout can make a difference,” Orange said. “One exercise, which takes just ten minutes, sends powerful signals to the body. It reminds us that every step, every session counts when it comes to doing your best to protect your health.”