... balance exercise and nutrition.
Frank Cheng
To age with health, people need the balance that comes from attention to exercise and nutrition, Frank Cheng says.
"During my whole life, I am advocating for Tai Chi," the 84-year-old University of Iowa professor emeritus of diagnostic radiology said. "This is a type of exercise which can maintain health. You preserve energy."
Tai Chi is a Chinese martial arts form that is said to promote health and longevity. The Chinese-born Cheng began the practice after elementary school, learning from a teacher, and continued the routine throughout much of his life.
The long-time cancer researcher says people should be physically active, mentally alert and emphasize nutrition. These are keys to staying ahead of down times and to have a healthy life.
Nutritionally, Cheng believes there is much to be gained from soybeans and soybean products such as tofu.
Some of this philosophy comes from his years as a medical researcher, studying cancer at UI. Medicine searches for cures, but Cheng said he always has been interested in prevention.
"I was in health care for the prevention aspects," he said.
He values balancing body metabolism and maintaining sufficient blood flow as a way to keep the body fresh and alert.
While he said there is no scientific evidence to back it, he believes there is a connection between taking care of oneself and preventing cancer.
"There is no direct correlation, no conclusive research. But I believe, yes, there is a connection between exercise and cancer," Cheng said. For Cheng, his philosophy has worked well.
"My health? So far so good," he said.
— Brian Morelli
