Lifestyles and Cancer: Nutrition, Exercise and Integrated Approach.Scientific foundations for nutritional and kinesiological intervention in oncology

Lifestyles and Cancer: Nutrition, Exercise, and an Integrated Approach offers a comprehensive and evidence-based exploration of how diet, physical activity, body composition, and the gut microbiota influence cancer prevention, treatment tolerance, and long-term survivorship. Drawing on current research in nutrition science, exercise oncology, microbiome biology, and lifestyle medicine, the book provides a unified framework for understanding how modifiable habits shape metabolic, immunological, and epigenetic pathways involved in carcinogenesis and patient outcomes. The volume examines the biological foundations of cancer—including metabolic reprogramming, inflammation, oxidative stress, and host–microbiota interactions—and explains how dietary patterns such as the Mediterranean diet, ketogenic approaches, fasting-based protocols, and targeted supplementation can support clinical care. The text also explores malnutrition, sarcopenia, cachexia, nutrient–drug interactions, and the therapeutic role of oral, enteral, and parenteral nutrition, using internationally recognized diagnostic criteria and assessment tools. A substantial section is dedicated to the role of structured physical activity, including Adapted Physical Activity (APA), exercise prescription based on FITT-VP principles, mind–body practices (e.g., Tai Chi, Yoga, Qi Gong), and adapted sport within community and clinical pathways. The book describes how exercise modulates systemic inflammation, metabolic homeostasis, and immune function, including emerging evidence on short-chain fatty acids, butyrate-mediated epigenetic regulation, and exercise-induced formate as a potential enhancer of CD8⁺ T-cell antitumor responses. Practical tools—functional tests, monitoring scales, safety screening, and clinical decision algorithms—are provided to guide implementation. A key focus is the integration of nutrition and movement across the cancer care continuum, from diagnosis to survivorship. The text highlights interdisciplinary collaboration among nutrition professionals, exercise specialists, clinicians, and mental-health practitioners, and discusses organizational models such as structured care pathways, community-based facilities, and transition protocols from adapted exercise to adapted sport. Barriers and facilitators to implementation (logistics, training, equity, adherence, and policy frameworks) are critically reviewed. Designed for university students, healthcare professionals, exercise specialists, and informed readers, the book balances scientific rigor with clarity and practical insight. Each chapter includes learning objectives, guiding questions, summary points, and self-assessment tests to support active learning and academic teaching. By integrating nutrition, physical activity, microbiota science, and behavioral factors, this work provides a modern, multidisciplinary foundation for evidence-based lifestyle interventions in cancer prevention and care.