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.
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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/
