Being active with Crohn’s or Colitis

Exercise is crucial for maintaining a healthy lifestyle for every individual, including those who suffer from Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). Numerous studies have demonstrated that regular exercise can enhance both physical and mental well-being, and it can be especially advantageous for people with IBD. Exercise can help reduce inflammation, enhance bone health, and uplift mood, making it essential to managing IBD symptoms.

Exercise is both safe and highly beneficial for people who have inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. It can help to improve cardiovascular health, reduce inflammation, boost mood, build muscle mass and strength, enhance bone health, reduce fatigue, and reduce chances of developing certain cancers, including colorectal cancer.

If you have Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), engaging in moderate-intensity exercise for at least 30 minutes daily is recommended. This may include brisk walking, swimming, cycling, or yoga. It is important to begin slowly and gradually increase the exercise over time. If you are new to exercising, it is advisable to consult with your doctor before starting a new exercise program.

Aerobic exercise

Aerobic exercise is an effective method to enhance cardiovascular health and minimise inflammation. It encompasses various activities, including walking, running, biking, swimming, and dancing. Individuals with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) should strive to perform at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise on most days of the week.

Strength training

For people with IBD, strength training is a vital form of exercise. Building muscle mass and strength can enhance bone health and minimise fatigue. It is recommended that individuals with IBD should participate in at least two strength training sessions per week.

Flexibility

Flexibility exercises, such as yoga, Pilates, and stretching, can improve range of motion and reduce muscle tension, which is especially beneficial for individuals with IBD who experience joint pain or stiffness.

Important tips:

It is essential to pay attention to your body and rest whenever you need to. Make sure to rest when necessary and take care of yourself.

Drinking enough fluids to stay hydrated before, during, and after exercising is essential.

It is advisable to avoid exercising in conditions of extreme heat or cold. Additionally, take proper precautions and dress accordingly if you choose to exercise in such conditions.

It’s important to select activities that you find enjoyable, and that can easily be incorporated into your daily routine.

Before beginning any new exercise program, especially if you have IBD, it’s essential to consult with your doctor or qualified coach. They can assist you in creating a personalised exercise plan that is both safe and effective, considering your individual needs.


I offer online coaching that helps people with medical conditions like IBD to feel amazing. Check out my IBD Online Coaching page to see if we can work together on your goals.


References:

Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. Exercise and IBD. https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/living-with-ibd/exercise-and-ibd: https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/living-with-ibd/exercise-and-ibd

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Exercise and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/inflammatory-bowel-disease/treatment/exercise: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/inflammatory-bowel-disease/treatment/exercise

Singh, A., & Danner, S. K. (2012). Exercise and inflammatory bowel disease. Current gastroenterology reports, 14(6), 495-502.: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3493392/


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Thank you for taking the time to visit my blog. My name is Vic and I have a strong passion for fitness and health. I have been working in this field for many years, assisting people in achieving their goals, including weight loss or muscle gain, and supporting patients with medical conditions in their rehabilitation journeys.