Yes. Despite the lack of any credible evidence, many cancer patients still believe that massage may spread cancer cells around the body. This is simply untrue.
There’s proof that massage is helpful in a variety of ways. Several studies show that manipulation of the body’s muscles and other soft tissues can reduce nausea, pain, fatigue, and anxiety in people with the disease. Many therapists rave about its profound impact upon their patients’ sense of well-being. Other research has found that people with cancer who receive massage (along with acupuncture) after surgery, experience fewer symptoms of depression than those who receive only the usual post-operative care. Still, cancer patients should take some precautions. People who have just had chemotherapy or radiation often have low blood platelet counts and can bruise easily; they should avoid vigorous massage and opt for gentle option.
If you’ve recently had surgery, you shouldn’t get a massage if there are signs of infection at the surgical site. Radiation therapy patients shouldn’t have their treatment sites massaged because it may further irritate their skin. Tell your doctor that you’re getting a massage and consider finding a therapist experienced in massaging people with cancer.
Experts often recommend gentler forms of massage, such as acupuncture and reflexology.
WHEN THIN
ISN’T IN
Control hair loss
as the years pass by
Hair loss is common with advancing age. The reasons could be many: low estrogen levels, iron deficiency, increasing stress. The diameter of the hair shaft diminishes as we get older. But if you are losing hair for no apparent reason, use a voluminising shampoo that contains rice or wheat proteins. Ditch hair sprays and apply dye only on the roots, combing it through to the ends.
A SHOT OF BACTERIA!
Probiotics are healthy bacteria that reside in your gut to keep it functioning efficiently and boost immunity. These hardy bacteria survive on acids in the stomach to reach the intestines and make sure that the food eaten is digested properly by the body. You can get your dose of probiotics from fermented foods such as yogurt. But for those who need an extra helping hand, because of weak digestion or an earlier illness that was treated with antibiotics, a fermented milk product, the probiotics drink has clinically proven cultures of bacteria that are good for health.n
